Bill > S1307

This bill, the Right to Read Act of 2023, aims to ensure that students in schools have a right to read. The key provisions of the bill are: 1. It defines "effective school library" and "information literacy," and establishes a "right to read" that includes access to evidence-based reading instruction, effective school libraries, family literacy support, culturally diverse materials, and the freedom to choose reading materials. 2. It amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) to require state and local education plans to address supporting and improving effective school libraries, ensuring equitable access to such libraries, and developing digital and information literacy skills. 3. It authorizes additional funding for comprehensive literacy development grants and innovative approaches to literacy, including increasing the number of certified school librarians in high-need schools. 4. It requires the Department of Education to biennially collect and report data on elementary and secondary school libraries, including staffing, collections, and library activities. 5. It provides liability protections for teachers, librarians, and other staff regarding the right to read, and requires assurances from states and local districts that they will protect students' First Amendment rights in school libraries.

Health and Social Services

https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/1307/all-info