SENATE RULES COMMITTEE SR 95
Office of Senate Floor Analyses
(916) 651-1520 Fax: (916) 327-4478
THIRD READING
Bill No: SR 95
Author: Newman (D), et al.
Amended: 5/20/24
Vote: Majority
SUBJECT: Relative to literacy
SOURCE: Author
DIGEST: This resolution recognizes literacy as a critical pathway out of poverty
and acknowledges the profound impact that literacy skills have on the lives of
Californians.
ANALYSIS: This resolution makes the following legislative findings:
1) The State of California recognizes that literacy is fundamental to individual
empowerment, economic opportunity, and societal progress. Literacy skills are
essential for personal development, enabling individuals to access higher
education, pursue meaningful careers, and actively engage in civic life.
2) Numerous studies have shown a direct correlation between literacy levels and
economic well-being, indicating that individuals with higher literacy skills are
more likely to secure gainful employment and contribute positively to the
economy.
3) The state acknowledges the existence of the illiteracy-to-prison pipeline, where
individuals with limited literacy skills are disproportionately represented in the
criminal justice system, highlighting the correlation between low literacy levels
and increased likelihood of involvement in the criminal justice system.
4) Addressing literacy challenges at an early stage through robust educational
initiatives, community programs, and targeted interventions can significantly
impact the trajectory of individuals and communities by providing them with
the tools necessary to overcome barriers to success.
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5) Recognizing families and caregivers as essential to building early literacy skills
and investing in programs that support family literacy is critical in early
childhood language and literacy development.
6) Investing in literacy programs and initiatives aimed at improving reading
proficiency, language skills, and access to educational resources can yield
substantial long-term benefits for both individuals and the state as a whole,
fostering a more equitable and prosperous society.
This resolution recognizes literacy as a critical pathway out of poverty and
acknowledges the profound impact that literacy skills have on the lives of
Californians.
FISCAL EFFECT: Appropriation: No Fiscal Com.: No Local: No
SUPPORT: (Verified 5/20/24)
None received
OPPOSITION: (Verified 5/20/24)
None received
Prepared by: Aizenia Randhawa / SFA / (916) 651-1520
5/22/24 12:11:29
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