SRC-JEC S.B. 975 78(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center S.B. 975 By: Barrientos Education 4/3/2003 As Filed DIGEST AND PURPOSE Currently, the Texas Reading Initiative, established in 1997 by the 75th Legislature, is considered effective in teaching children to read using research-based methods and materials. As proposed, S.B. 975 requires educator certification programs, including alternative certification programs, to incorporate Texas Reading Initiative training. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. Amends Section 21.044, Education Code, to require all educator certification programs, including master reading teacher certification programs, to incorporate the appropriate statedeveloped research-based training and materials in reading required for implementation in all districts, as established under Section 28.006, to address the needs of students determined to be at risk for dyslexia or other reading difficulties. SECTION 2. Effective date: September 1, 2003. Makes application of this Act prospective.