Christmas may be more than six months away, but it's already on the minds of Texas Gov. Rick Perry and some lawmakers in the state Legislature.

The governor on Thursday plans to sign into law a bipartisan bill removing any legal risks of saying "Merry Christmas" in Texas public schools.

Traditional holiday symbols, such as a menorah or nativity scene, also are protected, so long as more than one religion and a secular symbol are also reflected.

The measure's sponsor, Houston Republican Rep. Dwayne Bohac, says it will provide schools cover from "ridiculous" lawsuits.

Bohac's bill sailed through both chambers to reach Perry's desk. When it passed the House last month, several Santa Claus impersonators rang sleigh bells in the public gallery.