President Barack Obama signed legislation into law on Thursday that was co-authored by U.S. Rep. Lamar Smith (R-TX) to support dyslexia research.
Smith’s bipartisan Research, Excellence and Advancements for Dyslexia (READ) Act, H.R. 3033, aims to enhance early detection of dyslexia, to bolster dyslexia training for teachers and administrators, and to develop curricula and educational tools for kids with dyslexia.
“Today, we can help millions of Americans have a brighter and more prosperous future,” Smith, the chairman of the House Science, Space and Technology Committee, said. “Despite the prevalence of dyslexia, many Americans remain undiagnosed, untreated and silently struggle at school or work. We need to enable those with dyslexia to achieve their maximum potential. I am glad that the House and Senate were able to work together and send the president a good bipartisan bill to help accomplish this goal.”
Under the READ Act, the president’s annual budget request to Congress will be required to include the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Research in Disabilities Education program. The bill requires the NSF to devote at least $2.5 million to disability research each year.
Smith introduced the bipartisan READ Act with Rep. Julia Brownley (D-CA). Smith and Brownley co-chair the Congressional Dyslexia Caucus, a bipartisan group of more than 100 legislators.