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Georgia House Speaker Jon Burns’, R-Newington, biggest legislative priority heading into this year’s session was House Bill 1193, the Georgia Early Literacy Act of 2026.  And on Tuesday, the penultimate day of the legislative session, it received final passage.  

“Today, the Georgia House took historic, decisive action to get Georgia’s Children reading. The passage of the Early Literacy Act of 2026 marks the beginning of unprecedented change and a monumental step forward for every child who steps foot in a Georgia classroom,” said Jon Burns. “This is just the beginning of a success story that I believe will make a generational difference in the lives of children, families, and our entire state by ensuring every child has the chance to learn to read.”

Studies show that third-grade reading level is the single biggest indicator of future academic success.  A 2024 report from the Georgia Municipal Association showed that only 68% of Peach State third-graders were reading proficiently, a frightening number that perhaps even more frighteningly is around the middle of the pack nationwide.

HB 1193 will take big steps to correct that issue, said House Education Committee Chairman Chris Erwin, R-Homer, one of the driving forces behind the bill.

“Being able to read on grade level empowers students to expand their learning and knowledge,” said Erwin. “This bill will blanket the state with expert literacy coaches, high-quality instructional material and tools for teachers to improve the literacy rates of their students.”

The bill will streamline guidelines for grade placement, holding students back if needed until they reach certain key checkpoints.  It will also provide tools and training for teachers, as well as to parents, educating them on the importance of early childhood literacy.