In a firm request to Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, State Representative Jeff Leach has called for an official investigation into EPIC City, a planned Muslim-centric development in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Leach, representing Allen, expressed concerns that the project could potentially integrate elements of Shariah law, which he believes pose significant legal and constitutional issues. This proposed mixed-use development, located about 40 minutes from downtown Dallas in Collin and Wise counties, includes plans for over 1,000 homes, a faith-based school, mosque, and various other community facilities.
The project has attracted significant attention, highlighted by videos circulating on social media that have garnered over 1.5 million views, prompting both interest and backlash. Leach underscores these concerns by referencing House Bill 45, a law he co-authored in 2017, prohibiting the use of foreign laws in Texas state courts, specifically within family law matters. He emphasizes that any Shariah-based principles within EPIC City would be unlawful under both Texas and U.S. constitutions.
The Council on American-Islamic Relations, however, opposed the 2017 legislation, arguing it negatively impacts Muslims’ civil rights. Despite the controversy, representatives from the East Plano Islamic Center and the EPIC City development group maintain that their goal is to create an inclusive community. They stress that the neighborhood intends to integrate seamlessly with the broader society, contributing positively to the state and nation.
Governor Greg Abbott also voiced his stance, making it clear that Shariah law and related implications are not permissible in Texas, reinforcing Leach’s call for scrutiny. Meanwhile, Community Capital Partners, managing the EPIC City project, intends to engage with Leach to address his concerns and ensure compliance with all legal standards.