Chairman Walberg Applauds House Passage of Legislation Strengthening Literacy

Today, Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI) praised House passage of  H.R. 7890, Science of Reading Act of 2026, legislation that helps schools use proven methods to teach kids how to read—giving more students the strong start they need to succeed in school and beyond.

“Test score after test score and study after study show that we are failing our children. Ignoring this reality only puts them further behind and threatens our nation’s future,” said Chairman Walberg. “H.R. 7890 is a big step towards reversing course and improving literacy rates. Our students deserve an education grounded in what the evidence tells us, not the latest educational fad.” 

“Reading is the foundation of learning, and we cannot accept declining literacy rates as the status quo. The Science of Reading Act will equip classrooms with proven methods to ensure every student can read. Indiana has shown that the Science of Reading works, and I’m proud to see this important legislation pass the House,” said Rep. Erin Houchin (R-IN). 

H.R. 7890, Science of Reading Act of 2026, authored by Rep. Houchin: 

• Improves Student Outcomes in AND out of the Classroom. An inability to read impacts a student’s future. According to the National Assessment of Adult Literacy, two-thirds of students who cannot read proficiently by the end of the fourth grade will end up in jail or on welfare. Literacy is a gateway skill—if students can’t read, they can’t unlock and access learning from all other subjects. 
• Returns Literacy Teaching to Science-Backed Instruction. For decades, progressive fads like “whole language” instruction and “three-cueing” undermined literacy by replacing proven phonics instruction with guesswork. The results have been devastating. Science shows children thrive when taught explicitly through phonics and structured vocabulary. H.R. 7890 reclaims America’s academic foundations by restoring proven, evidence-based instruction in reading. 
• Drives America’s Global Leadership. Low reading skills don’t just hurt grades—they weaken our economy, workforce, and national security. Illiteracy costs billions annually, reduces earnings, and increases crime. Strong foundations in reading are essential to keeping America competitive on a global scale. 

Click here for Chairman Walberg's full Floor remarks.