Governor Greg Abbott has signed House Bill 4211 into law, prohibiting the creation of residential property developments that form Sharia compounds in Texas. The bill targets schemes like those attempted by EPIC City, which allegedly sought to establish a community open only to Muslims and enforce Sharia law within its boundaries.
“One of the issues at stake is the freedom of religion,” said Governor Abbott. “Another issue at stake is what’s called the right to contract. The fact is, religious freedom is a central part of the Texas Constitution. But bad actors like EPIC and EPIC City tried to use religion as a form of segregation. We will ensure that we have the laws and law enforcement in place to prevent attempts to build such discriminatory compounds in the state of Texas.”
Abbott explained that individuals behind EPIC City attempted to create an entire city exclusive to Muslims, subject residents to Sharia law, and restrict landowners from selling their property later on. He emphasized that the new legislation upholds religious freedom while preventing forced imposition of Sharia law in Texas.
The bill signing was attended by Congressman Keith Self, Senator Angela Paxton, Representative Jeff Leach, Representative Candy Noble, Representative Katrina Pierson, Representative Keresa Richardson, Representative Matt Shaheen, along with other state and local officials.
House Bill 4211 regulates business practices related to housing developments like EPIC City. It aims to stop discriminatory housing arrangements and unfair investment practices affecting Texans.
Additional photos from the event are expected to be provided when available.
