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Senate adopts bill requiring historical displays including Ten Commandments in public schools
Summary
The Senate passed SB99 requiring local school boards to post a framed display with the Ten Commandments alongside founding documents in U.S. history classrooms (grades 5–12) and at least one common area; displays are to be donated or provided free, include a disclaimer, and the State Board may adopt rules.
The Alabama Senate voted to adopt SB99 on March 31, 2026, a measure that requires local boards of education to display a poster featuring the Ten Commandments together with founding documents (Declaration of Independence, Constitution, Bill of Rights and state preamble) in classrooms where U.S. history is taught (grades 5–12) and in at least one common area for schools serving grades 5 and up.
Sponsor Senator Kelly told the chamber the display is a historical, not devotional, treatment: the poster must include a clear disclaimer that Alabama is not establishing a religion and that matters of faith remain personal choices for students and families. The bill conditions the requirement on donated displays or donated funds so it imposes no direct cost on local taxpayers; it also requires the State Department of Education to identify free resources and the State Board of Education to adopt implementing rules.
Supporters cited historical precedent and Supreme Court case law allowing Ten Commandments displays in a contextual setting. Opponents raised separation‑of‑church‑and‑state concerns. The Senate adopted the bill after debate and a long‑roll vote. The law provides an effective date for implementation and authorizes the state board to issue rules to guide display design and placement.
