Bill > S4028

This bill, the "Open Books, Open Doors Act," aims to improve literacy rates and academic success, particularly in underserved communities, by establishing a grant program to expand access to age-appropriate reading materials and literacy programs. The Act defines key terms such as "book desert" (areas with limited access to books), "evidence-based literacy program" (programs proven effective through research), and "family literacy" (services that integrate parent-child reading activities, parent training, and early childhood education). The grant program, administered by the Secretary of Education, will prioritize funding for initiatives in book deserts, early screening and intervention for learning disabilities like dyslexia, and the development of innovative literacy strategies. A significant portion of the funds will also support technical assistance, public awareness campaigns, and disaster-impacted areas. The bill also mandates interagency collaboration among various federal departments to align literacy efforts and establish a Federal Clearinghouse on Book Access to collect and disseminate effective literacy strategies. Finally, it authorizes $100 million annually for fiscal years 2026 through 2031 to fund these initiatives.

Health and Social Services

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/4028/all-info