Federal judge in Louisiana overrules 'creationism' law

US District Judge Adrian Duplantier ruled that a Louisiana law requiring instruction in ''scientific creationism'' violated the state's constitution. The American Civil Liberties Union filed suit against the requirement, which was the nation's only creationism law.

The judge said the Louisiana Legislature had usurped the power of the state education board to establish a curriculum by passing a law requiring balanced treatment of evolution and the biblical version of creation. Louisiana state lawmakers said they would appeal the decision.