Governor Abbott Signs New Law Mandating Prayer in Schools, Violating Texans’ Constitutional Rights

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AUSTIN, Texas — Governor Greg Abbott today signed Senate Bill 11 into law, mandating a daily period for prayer and Bible reading in Texas public schools. All school boards must vote on adopting such a policy within six months of the bill’s enactment, which applies beginning with the 2025-2026 school year.

Texas Freedom Network Political Director Rocío Fierro-Pérez (she/her) issued the following response:

“Governor Abbott made it official: the state of Texas will now compel schoolchildren to participate in a government-mandated period of prayer and Bible reading. This is religious coercion.

“Religion is sacred, and faith practices should be guided by faith leaders and families, not the state of Texas. Senate Bill 11 is a deliberate attack on the First Amendment. It opens the door for public schools to become instruments of state-sponsored religion, trampling the rights of families who do not share the Governor’s beliefs. In a state as diverse as Texas, home to Christians, Jews, Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs, atheists, and so many others, this law is both unconstitutional and morally reprehensible.

“SB 11 does nothing to support students—it only divides and excludes. No child should be pressured to perform piety to feel safe or accepted in a public school classroom. No teacher should have to referee prayer. And no family should have to fear that their beliefs will be marginalized by the institutions meant to educate their children.”

While the 89th Regular Texas Legislative Session has come to a close, Texas Freedom Network’s advocacy for religious freedom will continue throughout 2025. The organization will educate Texans about new policy, track the effects of legislation on students and families, and engage in organizing at local school boards and the Texas State Board of Education, ensuring Texans have a voice when student curricula are being debated and voted upon.

In 2026, Texas Freedom Network and our youth project, Texas Rising Action, will endorse candidates for progressive change and mobilize Texans to the ballot box.

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