Assembly adopts HR 13 recognizing Read Across America Day

The California State Assembly adopted House Resolution 13 on Feb. 11 to recognize Read Across America Day, Assemblymember Muratsuchi said on the floor during remarks introducing the measure.

"Read Across America Day is a nation's largest celebration of reading, encouraging every child in every community to celebrate reading," Assemblymember Muratsuchi said, citing the National Education Association’s campaign as the basis for the observance. He asked colleagues to join in recognizing the day.

Assemblymember Quirk Silva, a former teacher, spoke in support and described how early literacy and reading skills shape students' academic and life outcomes. Assemblymember Bonta also rose in support, citing his prior work on early literacy and noting that many low-income children have few books in their homes.

The clerk opened the roll for coauthors and recorded 71 coauthors; the Assembly then took a voice vote. The chair announced, "The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted." After the vote, Muratsuchi introduced education representatives present on the floor, including Leslie Littman, vice president of the California Teachers Association, and Rachel Warrino, the association's communications manager.

Votes and formal action: HR 13 was adopted by voice vote; 71 coauthors were added prior to the voice vote. The resolution is a recognition of Read Across America Day and does not by itself establish funding.