Representative John W. Mannion’s (NY-22) Legislation to Improve Reading Outcomes in Elementary and Secondary Schools Passes House With Bipartisan Support

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Representative John W. Mannion (NY-22) today announced that his legislation, the Science of Reading Act of 2026, passed the U.S. House of Representatives with bipartisan support. The bipartisan bill, also supported by Representative Erin Houchin (IN-9) and Representative Kevin Kiley (CA-3), aims to strengthen reading outcomes by promoting evidence-based instruction grounded in the Science of Reading. 

Representative John W. Mannion said, “As a teacher for nearly three decades - and the husband of a literacy expert - I know that strong reading skills are the foundation for success in the classroom, in the workplace, and throughout life. The Science of Reading Act gives teachers and students access to proven, evidence-based approaches that help kids become stronger readers. I’m proud that Republicans and Democrats came together to pass this legislation and move us one step closer to improving reading outcomes for students in NY-22 and across the country. Strong schools and strong readers are essential to America’s ability to compete and win globally.” 

Representative Erin Houchin said, “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.” 

The Science of Reading Act would amend the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to require that literacy instruction funded through the Comprehensive Literacy State Development (CLSD) program follows the “science of reading.” Furthermore, the bill would limit the use of the three‑cueing model as the primary model of instruction for states participating in this program. This bill also carefully ensures protections for individualized instructional supports for students with disabilities and English language learners.  

The science of reading uses five evidence-based components of phonemic awareness - phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension - to teach students literacy skills. More than 40 states have implemented these methods successfully, helping to create more consistent and comprehensive outcomes for students. 

Watch Congressman Mannion's remarks here.