Bill Cassidy - Ranking Member of the Senate HELP Committee | Official U.S. Senate headshot
Bill Cassidy - Ranking Member of the Senate HELP Committee | Official U.S. Senate headshot
On September 18, 2024, a group of U.S. Senators and Representatives introduced a resolution to recognize October 2024 as National Dyslexia Awareness Month. The initiative was led by U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Angus King (I-ME), Susan Collins (R-ME), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA). U.S. Representatives Bruce Westerman (R-AR) and Julia Brownley (D-CA) introduced the companion resolution in the House of Representatives.
"Dyslexia impacts one in five Americans. With an early diagnosis by the end of kindergarten or beginning of the first grade, these students won’t be left behind and can reach their full potential," said Dr. Cassidy. "This National Dyslexia Awareness Month, we raise dyslexia awareness and continue our work to ensure these bright children have the resources to achieve their dreams."
Senator Capito highlighted the widespread impact of dyslexia: "Dyslexia impacts individuals in West Virginia and all across our country, which is why it is so important that we recognize the substantial challenges it poses to students and adults." She emphasized the importance of early screening, diagnosis, and evidence-based solutions.
Senator Collins pointed out that identifying dyslexia in early childhood is crucial: "Identifying dyslexia in early childhood is crucial to ensuring students in Maine and across the country are being properly prepared for a lifetime of reading and learning." She noted that a lack of dyslexia testing has left many students struggling silently.
Representative Westerman stressed the need for proper attention to dyslexia: "Although millions of students face social stigmas and learning challenges related to dyslexia every day, dyslexia rarely receives the proper attention it deserves." He expressed pride in supporting this resolution alongside his colleagues.
Representative Brownley shared her personal connection to the issue: "I began my career in public service to ensure that all children, including individuals with dyslexia like my daughter, have the resources and positive learning environments to live up to their full potential." She reiterated her commitment as Co-Chair of the Congressional Dyslexia Caucus.
Despite its prevalence, many students are rarely tested for dyslexia, preventing them from receiving necessary services and accommodations. Last year, Senator Cassidy introduced the 21st Century Dyslexia Act aimed at incorporating modern scientific understanding into federal statutes.
For more information on this resolution or other updates from HELP Republicans, visit their website or Twitter at @GOPHELP.
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