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Committee adopts amendments and advances literacy bill aimed at K–8 reading support
Summary
Senators adopted a technical and a substantive amendment to House Bill 316, a literacy bill that clarifies teacher professional development timing, bans outdated practices already prohibited by statute, protects existing student plans, and sets participation guidance for charter schools; the bill was reported favorable as amended.
The Senate Education Committee adopted two amendments and reported House Bill 316, a package of literacy reforms, favorable to the next stage.
Miss Roberts read the bill summary. The sponsor presented a technical amendment (33 74) and a substantive amendment (3,356). Committee testimony described the changes as clarifying that required professional development will be completed during the school day, explicitly banning literacy practices already prohibited in statute, protecting existing individualized student plans, and clarifying implementation for charter schools rated D or F.
Senator Mizell moved HB 316 as amended and the committee reported the bill favorable with no objections. Supporters listed on green cards included literacy organizations and vendors who offered to provide information if asked; no opposition was recorded at the hearing.
Why it matters: Sponsors said the measures continue ongoing literacy reforms intended to support students in grades 4–8 who are at risk of falling behind. The amendments aim to clarify implementation details and to reduce disruption to existing student plans.
Next steps: HB 316 will advance as amended; staff and stakeholders will likely track implementation details and charter participation rules as the bill moves forward.
