The Alabama Senate today passed a proposed constitutional amendment to allow Ten Commandments displays on state property and in public schools.

The bill is by Sen. Gerald Dial, R-Lineville, who has proposed similar bills for years.

It moves to the House of Representatives. If at least 63 of 105 House members approve it, it would go to voters for a referendum.

The bill says the Ten Commandments displays in public schools or on public property would be "in a manner that complies with constitutional requirements, including, but not limited to, being intermingled with historical or educational items, or both, in a larger display."

The Senate passed the bill 23-7, with seven Democrats voting against it.

Sen. Billy Beasley of Clayton was the only Democrat to vote for it.

The bill includes a prohibition against using public funds to defend the constitutionality of the amendment in court.