Arkansas

Federal Judge Blocks Arkansas Law Mandating Ten Commandments in Classrooms, Citing Constitutional Violations

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Fayetteville, Arkansas – A federal district court has temporarily halted an Arkansas law mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in classrooms, determining that the law likely contravenes the U.S. Constitution and echoes a prior Supreme Court decision from 1980. The legislation, known as Act 573, was approved by Arkansas lawmakers in April and mirrors similar initiatives enacted in Louisiana and Texas. Each measure necessitates the display of a version of the Ten Commandments derived from the King James Bible in all public school classrooms. In his ruling, U.S. District Judge Timothy L. Brooks noted … Read more

Federal Court Blocks Arkansas Law on Ten Commandments Display in Major Districts Amid Religious Controversy

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LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — A federal judge has ruled that a new Arkansas law requiring the display of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms cannot be enforced in several of the state’s largest school districts. This decision stems from legal challenges claiming the law infringes on the separation of church and state. U.S. District Judge Timothy L. Brooks, appointed by former President Obama, stated that his ruling applies only to four out of Arkansas’s 237 school districts, thereby limiting its immediate impact as students prepare to return for classes. The decision adds to the … Read more

Arkansas Readies for Major Legislative Changes as New Laws Take Effect This August

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Little Rock, Arkansas – A new set of laws will take effect in Arkansas starting August 5, following recent approval by state lawmakers and the signature of Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders. These laws, covering various sectors, are expected to impact daily life for many residents. Among the changes, new regulations aim to address issues in education, labor, and public safety. The legislature’s recent session saw a significant number of bills passed that reflect the administration’s priorities. Advocates and critics alike have voiced their opinions on the implications these laws may have on different community groups. … Read more

Judge Halts Arkansas Law Requiring Ten Commandments Display in Schools, Citing Constitutional Concerns

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FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — A federal judge intervened late Monday, preventing the implementation of an Arkansas law that required the Ten Commandments to be displayed in every public school classroom. The decision came just hours before the law, known as Act 573, was set to take effect and as the state’s public schools prepare to reopen for the fall semester. U.S. District Judge Timothy Brooks, presiding in the Western District of Arkansas, issued this ruling while addressing a lawsuit questioning the law’s constitutionality. In a detailed opinion, Brooks pointed to a Supreme Court decision from 45 … Read more