Governor Ivey signs Ten Commandments bill

April 11, 2026 - MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Governor Kay Ivey on Friday signed Senate Bill 99, a measure that will require the display of the Ten Commandments and accompanying historical context in certain Alabama public schools, contingent on donated materials or funding.

The legislation, sponsored by Sen. Keith Kelley (R‑Anniston) and Rep. Mark Gidley (R‑Guntersville), directs schools serving grades 5–12 to place the Ten Commandments alongside an explanation of their historical significance. The displays may not be purchased with state dollars; instead, they must be provided through private donations or donated funds.

Governor Ivey's Statement

In announcing her signature, Governor Ivey emphasized the role of foundational documents in American history and the importance of teaching them to students:

"In Alabama, we proudly remember that we live in one nation under God. The Ten Commandments – like the Declaration of Independence and Bill of Rights – are critical to understanding the founding of our country. Especially as we approach the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, it is of the utmost importance Alabama's children understand the history of this great country we call home. That absolutely includes a foundational document like the Ten Commandments."

A Promise Made in 2025

The governor's action follows through on a commitment she highlighted during her 2025 State of the State address, where she outlined three priorities: expanding parental leave for teachers and state employees, signing legislation defining gender in state law, and ensuring that the Ten Commandments and other historical documents have a place in Alabama classrooms.

In that speech, she said:

"And last, there is a place for the Ten Commandments and other key historical documents in our classrooms."

With SB99 now enacted, all three objectives she listed in that address have been completed over the last two legislative sessions.

Legislative Context

Supporters of SB99 have framed the measure as an effort to highlight the historical influence of the Judeo‑Christian tradition on American law and civic development. The bill pairs the Ten Commandments with a contextual statement to underscore their role in shaping early American political thought.

The displays will be implemented as donated materials become available, and the Alabama State Department of Education is expected to provide guidance and identify free resources that school systems may use to comply.

SB99 now joins a series of education‑related measures enacted during Governor Ivey's tenure that emphasize historical literacy and civic foundations as Alabama approaches the nation's 250th anniversary.