FORT PIERCE, Fla. – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis celebrated the signing of House Bill 3 and announced that Florida is investing $270 million in literacy initiatives throughout the state. On June 29, Governor DeSantis signed HB 3, creating the “New Worlds Reading Initiative,” Florida’s first statewide book distribution program. Through this new program, children in kindergarten through fifth grade who are reading below grade level are eligible to receive free, high-quality books delivered directly to their home. In addition to the New Worlds Reading Initiative, which represents a $200 million investment, Florida is also utilizing an additional $71 million to fund and support other important literacy initiatives. Together, these initiatives total a more than $270 million investment.
“As a father of three young children, I want every child to have the opportunity to achieve their full potential,” said Governor DeSantis. “The biggest difference we can make in setting Florida children up for success is making sure they know how to read. I’m proud to celebrate these investments in literacy today that ensure every student – regardless of their socio-economic status – has access to free, high-quality books. Thank you to Representative Trabulsy, Senator Burgess, Speaker Sprowls and President Simpson for prioritizing Florida’s children.”
“Literacy is foundational to learning and is probably the most pressing issue facing our students today,” said Commissioner of Education Richard Corcoran. “Education is freedom – the great equalizer. Research shows that providing books to students both empowers parents to engage with their child’s reading activities and improves the student’s reading skills. I deeply appreciate Governor DeSantis’ and legislative leaders’ focus on reading and literacy, and putting our students on a path to a great life.”
“Governor DeSantis has made access to quality education and early learning a priority in his administration, and the work he and Commissioner Corcoran have done will have a positive impact on students for generations to come,” said Speaker Chris Sprowls. “The profound effect providing books and materials to empower children and parents is immeasurable. If one book serves to inspire one child or enable one family to break the cycle of generational poverty so many struggling readers face, then every moment spent on this initiative will have been worth it. This legislation would not have been possible if not for the hard work of members like Representative Trabulsy, Chairman Latvala, and of course, our partners in the Senate. All of us are committed to ensuring every child in Florida has the tools, freedom, and ability to reach their full educational potential.”