A federal appeals court has ruled that a Texas law requiring the display of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms does not violate the Constitution, marking a significant development in ongoing legal battles over religion in education.

The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals issued the decision Tuesday, finding that the requirement does not breach either the Establishment Clause or the Free Exercise Clause of the First Amendment. The ruling allows the law to remain in effect as legal challenges continue.

The Texas statute, which took effect on September 1, mandates that public school classrooms display the Ten Commandments, making it one of the most expansive efforts in the country to incorporate religious texts into public education settings.

Supporters of the law, including allies of President Donald Trump, argue that the Ten Commandments hold historical significance and reflect foundational principles that influenced American legal traditions. Critics, however, contend that the requirement undermines the separation of church and state and could infringe on religious freedom.

The decision follows earlier action by the same court involving a similar law in Louisiana. In that case, the appeals court voted to lift a lower court’s injunction, allowing Louisiana’s requirement for classroom displays to proceed while litigation continues.

In Texas, the law has already been partially implemented. Although some federal judges had previously blocked enforcement in certain school districts, other districts moved forward by funding the displays themselves or accepting donated materials.

The ruling sets the stage for a potential review by the U.S. Supreme Court, where broader constitutional questions about religious expression in public schools could be addressed.

As the case progresses, the outcome could have nationwide implications for how states approach the intersection of religion and public education.