Dyslexia definition could be added back into Utah’s educational code

SALT LAKE CITY — A proposed Utah bill is aiming to help children who struggle with dyslexia by putting the definition of dyslexia back into the state’s educational code.

The definition was taken out years ago when Utah educators transitioned into a new reading and benchmark assessment program.

Since then, the bill’s sponsor Rep. Susan Pulsipher, R-South Jordan, said she’s heard from families who have been having a hard time since the state adopted the new reading program.

“There are some that have it may be higher on the spectrum, you might say,” Pulsipher said.

“Stronger cases that need additional help to use the science of reading. And they might even qualify for special needs assistance. And that definition helps direct those.”

The legislation has passed several committees but still needs approval from the full Senate and the House.

“With that definition in, they can clearly identify those students who actually do need help,” Pulsipher said.

“That will just be something that will help create opportunities and resources for educators and for parents and for children who have that issue.”

If the bill passes, it will take effect on May 1, 2024.

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