Today, the Secular Education Association testified in person before the Indiana House Education Committee in opposition to House Bill 1086.

HB 1086 was changed after its author adopted an amendment removing the explicit requirement to post the Ten Commandments in schools.

Instead, the bill now designates the Ten Commandments as a “protected writing” in Indiana law. The bill also prohibits principals and teachers from reading the Ten Commandments aloud when students are present.

However, it still permits and protects the posting of the Ten Commandments in public school buildings, classrooms, and libraries, limiting local discretion to prevent those displays.

SEA opposes HB 1086 because public schools have a constitutional obligation to remain religiously neutral. When the state elevates and protects a specific religious text in instructional spaces, it crosses from accommodation into endorsement and creates legal risk for school districts.

During today’s hearing, six individuals testified in opposition, three testified in support, and one provided neutral testimony. Opposition included the ACLU as well as Christian, Jewish, and Muslim faith leaders, all raising concerns about religious freedom and the role of public schools.

The only notable organizational support came from the Indiana Family Institute, a state affiliate of Focus on the Family.

Despite this, the bill advanced out of committee and will continue through the legislative process.

SEA will continue to track HB 1086 and oppose efforts to erode the religious neutrality of public education. Watch the testimony below.

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