Bill > SB0159

This bill mandates dyslexia screening for students in Utah public schools, defining "dyslexia" as per existing state law and categorizing school districts into "large" (over 3,000 students or in a first, second, or third-class county) and "small" (3,000 students or fewer or in a fourth, fifth, or sixth-class county). Large school districts must administer a dyslexia screener to students in kindergarten, first, and second grade at least once annually, using allocated state funds to hire staff for screening and cover related costs. Regional education service agencies will screen students in small school districts and, upon request, charter schools, also using state funds for personnel and expenses. Charter schools can voluntarily screen students in kindergarten through second grade, or do so upon a parent's request through their regional education service agency. Parents can request a screening for their child in kindergarten through second grade at any public school, or for students in homeschool programs, the Carson Smith Opportunity Scholarship Program, the Statewide Online Education Program, or the Utah Fits All Scholarship Program. The bill allows districts and agencies to choose screeners that align with state board rules and comply with the law, and requires them to follow existing procedures for students showing characteristics of dyslexia. The state board is responsible for distributing funds, employing personnel to screen students in specific programs, and creating rules to identify effective screeners and implement the bill's requirements, which takes effect on July 1, 2026.

Education

https://le.utah.gov/~2026/bills/static/SB0159.html