Senator Portantino Applauds Governor Newsom’s Moves to Prioritize Early Dyslexia Screening

California State Senator Anthony J. Portantino (D – Pasadena) has expressed his gratitude towards Governor Gavin Newsom for the inclusion of dyslexia risk screening in the Governor’s May Revision, released Friday.

Portantino introduced Senate Bill 691 earlier this year, which aims at early identification and intervention for students at risk for dyslexia. Friday, Portantino praised the alignment of the Governor’s May Revision with the goals of his Senate Bill.

“I am extremely grateful and appreciative of Governor Newsom for including dyslexia risk screening in the May Revise,” Senator Portantino said. “Despite budget challenges this year, the Governor’s commitment to prioritize early literacy and dyslexia risk screening shows a strong dedication to our children’s success.”

Portantino’s support was echoed by Governor Newsom, who also has dyslexia. 

“When we help children read, we help them succeed,” Newsom said. “Screening equips schools to identify students’ unique academic needs and provide appropriate supports. I’m grateful for Senator Portantino’s leadership, and his partnership, to ensure we get this done, and done right.”

Leaders in the field of education and dyslexia research also joined in the praise. 

Lori DePole, Co-State Director of Decoding Dyslexia CA, lauded the Governor and Senator Portantino for their efforts, saying, “This is a significant step for California in preventing reading failure.”

EdVoice CEO Marshall Tuck commended the initiative as well. 

“We applaud Governor Newsom and Senator Portantino for making literacy for all children a top priority in California,” said Tuck. “Literacy is foundational to lifelong success, and universal screening for reading difficulties, including dyslexia, will improve literacy rates and expand opportunities for California’s children.”

Dyslexia, the most common learning disability, affects at least 10% to 15% of the general population. Both Governor Newsom and Senator Portantino have personally faced the challenges of dyslexia.

Senator Portantino extended his thanks to the elected officials, activists, professional athletes, parents, and children who, while grappling with dyslexia, have come together to advocate strongly for this cause.