U.S. Representative Keith Self (R-TX) is raising concerns about the growth of Muslim-centric communities across Texas, claiming that imams are enforcing Sharia rules on local businesses and that these developments signal a broader challenge to American law and values in the Lone Star State.
Self has highlighted the construction of Muslim-only or Muslim-focused residential enclaves, particularly in North Texas. He points to instances where local imams allegedly impose Sharia-compliant practices on nearby stores, including threats against businesses that do not comply.
Key Developments Cited by Rep. Self
One prominent example involves projects linked to the East Plano Islamic Center (EPIC) in Self’s district. This includes an existing enclave of homes reportedly sold primarily to Muslims affiliated with the center, as well as larger proposed developments like the one originally known as EPIC City (later rebranded as “The Meadow”).
These plans envision hundreds of homes, a mosque, school, and community facilities designed for Sharia-adherent living, raising questions about integration versus the creation of parallel societies.
Self and fellow lawmakers in the Sharia-Free America Caucus argue that such enclaves prioritize submission to Islamic law over assimilation into U.S. constitutional principles.
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Texas Takes Action Against Sharia Influence
Texas voters have already sent a strong message on the issue. In the March 2026 Republican primary, Proposition 10 asking whether the state should prohibit Sharia law passed with overwhelming 94.81% support.17
In September 2025, Governor Greg Abbott signed House Bill 4211 to ban “Sharia compounds,” targeting discriminatory housing developments that could create parallel legal systems.19
Self has introduced federal legislation, including the Preserving Our Constitution Act and the FAITH Act, to prevent U.S. courts from recognizing Sharia or any foreign religious legal systems incompatible with the Constitution.
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Broader Debate on Religious Freedom and Assimilation
Proponents of these measures, including Self, view Sharia as fundamentally at odds with American values such as individual rights, equality, and secular governance. They warn that unchecked growth of such communities could lead to cultural and legal fragmentation, drawing parallels to challenges observed in parts of Europe.
Opponents counter that the concerns are overstated and amount to discrimination. They emphasize that Sharia has no formal legal authority in Texas courts, any private religious practices must comply with U.S. law, and the focus unfairly targets Muslims while other faith-based communities operate without similar scrutiny.
Why Texas Is at the Center of the National Conversation
As one of the fastest-growing states with significant demographic changes, Texas is often seen as a bellwether for national trends on immigration, integration, and religious liberty. Self has stated that “as Texas goes, so goes the nation,” underscoring the stakes.
Lawmakers continue to monitor proposed developments, business complaints, and community impacts as they prepare for the 2027 legislative session.
The debate over Sharia law in Texas highlights ongoing tensions between religious freedom, national identity, and the supremacy of the U.S. Constitution. As more details emerge on specific communities and enforcement claims, public and legislative attention remains high.
