Federal judge blocks Louisiana law that requires classrooms to display Ten Commandments

"U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles in Baton Rouge said the law had an 'overtly religious' purpose, rejecting state officials' arguments for its historical significance in U.S. law."

"DeGravelles noted that no other foundational documents, including the Constitution or the Bill of Rights, must be posted, reinforcing the argument about the religious coercion of students."

"The law amounts to unconstitutional religious government coercion of students, particularly isolating those who are not Christian," DeGravelles stated in his opinion.

"Proponents of the measure suggest it has historical significance, yet opponents maintain it violates First Amendment rights, arguing it pushes a specific religious viewpoint on students."

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