Bill ties federal literacy grants to phonics-based reading instruction
Placed on the calendarS. 4689Latest action
Sponsor: Bill Cassidy · Senator · LA
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: READ Act
119th Congress
Topics: Education
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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The READ Act requires states getting federal literacy grants to use "science of reading" methods and ban three-cueing instruction.
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What does this do?
The READ Act updates a federal grant program to require states and schools receiving certain literacy funds to use phonics-based "science of reading" methods and prohibits the "three-cueing" technique of guessing words from pictures or context. Grant recipients must screen young students for reading difficulties like dyslexia, retrain teachers, update licensing standards, and offer tutoring or summer programs for struggling readers.
Who does it affect?
The bill affects public school students in kindergarten through 8th grade, their parents, teachers, and state education agencies that receive the relevant federal literacy grants.
Why does it matter?
Schools receiving these grants would face new instructional and reporting requirements, and parents would gain a right to notification if their child is identified as reading below grade level. States not receiving these specific grants are not required to comply, and the bill does not override existing disability rights laws like IDEA or the ADA.
What does it cost, and who pays?
- States get federal literacy grants
- 75% must go to districts
- funds cover teacher training, tutoring
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedJun 4, 2026
- Senate committee
- Senate voteYou are here · Aug 6, 2026
- House
- The president's desk
Right now: it was placed on the , and the official record shows no floor action on it since. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 549.
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