AUSTIN, Texas — A bill requiring classroom displays of the Ten Commandments in public schools passed the Texas House on Sunday.

The 82-46 vote sends the proposal back to the Senate. Lawmakers in the House amended the legislation Sunday to include a provision saying the state attorney general must defend public schools in any lawsuits that arise out of the proposal. Taxpayers would foot the bill if litigation results from the law.

The underlying measure is among Republicans’ efforts this session to expand religion in public classrooms. Lawmakers voted Friday to send a bill to Abbott allowing prayer time in public schools.

State Rep. Candy Noble, R-Lucas, told colleagues during Saturday’s debate that the Ten Commandments are foundational to America and its educational and judicial systems.

“Nothing is more deep-rooted in the fabric of our American tradition of education than the Ten Commandments,” Noble said. “The very way we treat others as a society comes from the principles found in the Ten Commandments.”

— Tribune News Service