1. United States
2. S.C.
3. Letter

I urge you to oppose Bill 3217, which would amend § 59‑1‑315 to require every public elementary, middle, and secondary school to display a poster or framed copy of the Ten Commandments in each classroom . Although introduced with good intentions, the bill creates serious constitutional, educational, and practical problems. 
The First Amendment’s Establishment Clause forbids government actions that endorse a particular religion. Requiring a religious text in public‑school classrooms unmistakably advances a specific faith tradition, violating Supreme Court precedents such as Stone v. Graham (1980) and Lee v. Weisman (1992). The ACLU of South Carolina notes that the bill “contradicts the First Amendment” and would expose the state to costly litigation . Upholding our constitutional commitments means rejecting any law that blurs the line between church and state. 
Our public schools serve a diverse population of students, families, and staff with varied religious beliefs and non‑beliefs. Mandating a singular religious display undermines religious neutrality, alienates those who do not share the Judeo‑Christian tradition, and distracts from the core mission of education—critical thinking and academic achievement. 
Implementing the bill would impose additional expenses on already strained school budgets for purchasing, installing, and maintaining the posters, diverting funds from essential instructional needs. The statute also lacks clear standards for “conspicuous placement,” inviting inconsistent application and further legal challenges that would burden districts. 
Polling in neighboring states shows strong public support for keeping public schools secular. Introducing religious symbols into classrooms is widely viewed as unnecessary and divisive, risking community backlash and eroding trust in elected officials. 
For constitutional fidelity, educational equity, fiscal responsibility, and respect for South Carolina’s diverse citizenry, I respectfully request that you vote against Bill 3217. Your leadership in preserving the separation of church and state will protect both our legal foundations and the quality of public education for generations to come. Thank you for your careful consideration.