Fattah-Sponsored Bill to Boost Dyslexia Research Passes House

WASHINGTON, Oct. 27, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Congressman Chaka Fattah (D-PA) applauded the passage of H.R. 3033, the READ (Research Excellence and Advancements for Dyslexia) Act. Fattah, one of Congress's strongest champions for neuroscience, was an early co-sponsor of the bill that will require the National Science Foundation (NSF) to devote funding to support dyslexia research.

The bipartisan bill was introduced by House Science Committee Chairman Lamar Smith (R-TX). Dyslexia—the most common learning disability—affects approximately 8.5 million school-age children in the United States, and one in six Americans.  

"We know that this brain-based learning disability often goes undiagnosed and causes many of our students to fall behind in reading proficiency. Further, minority communities disproportionately suffer from a dyslexia diagnosis gap, which prevents them from receiving the support and assistance they need to succeed in school," Congressman Fattah said. "This bill will not only help the millions already diagnosed with dyslexia, it will ensure that those with the disability are identified and put on a path where they are able to overcome their reading difficulties and ultimately reach their full potential.  I am grateful to Chairman Smith for his leadership on this issue and his sustained interest in advancing our understanding of the human brain—especially as it relates to cognitive development."

"Many Americans with dyslexia remain undiagnosed, untreated and silently struggle at school or work.  Today we can shine a light on dyslexia and help millions of Americans have a brighter and more prosperous future. We need to enable those with dyslexia to achieve their maximum potential," Chairman Smith said. "I thank Rep. Fattah for sponsoring this important legislation and for his continued leadership in promoting neuroscience research."

Last month, Congressman Fattah in conjunction with the Dana Foundation and the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), sponsored a Congressional briefing, "The Science of Educating Special Needs Children." The program focused on emerging research and therapies on treating disorders including dyslexia, ADHD, and autism.

Congressman Fattah has led the efforts in Congress to boost funding for brain research.  He is architect of the Fattah Neuroscience Initiative which raises the priority, awareness, and funding for brain diseases and injuries, as well as cognitive learning research.

SOURCE Office of Congressman Chaka Fattah

Related Links

http://www.fattah.house.gov