FRANKFORT, Ky. (KT) – Legislation has been introduced for the 2025 regular session of the Kentucky General Assembly by Rep. Richard White, R-Morehead, that would allow the Ten Commandments to be read or posted in public schools within the state.

“The Ten Commandments have had an indelible impact on our nation’s founding and society as a whole,” said White. “I filed House Bill 116 to allow our teachers or administrators in public school districts the opportunity to post or read the Ten Commandments, if they so choose.”

This measure would allow local boards to allow any teacher or administrator in a public school district of the commonwealth to read or post in a public school building, classroom, or event any excerpts or portions of the 10 Commandments.

Unlike other pieces of legislation that have been filed and passed in other states, like Louisiana, that would require the 10 Commandments be posted in public schools, this measure would simply give public school teachers and administrators the option to exercise the freedom to post or read any excerpts or portions of the Ten Commandments, if they choose to do so. This year, a similar bill has been filed in Tennessee that would give public schools the option to display the Ten Commandments.

“Allowing public school teachers or administrators the option to post or read any excerpts or portions of the Ten Commandments will allow our students to be exposed to a historically significant document that has influenced our nation, informed our principles, and shaped our legal system,” added White.

The measure, which is co-sponsored by Rep. Chris Fugate, R-Chavies, and Rep. Timmy Truett, R-McKee, has not yet been assigned to a committee.

The General Assembly convened Jan. 7 for its four-day organizational session. Legislators are currently in recess until Feb. 4, when they will return to Frankfort for the remainder of the 30 legislative day session, which ends on March 28.