State Representative Bethany Ballard, representing Warner Robins, was present with Governor Brian Kemp for the enactment of two significant pieces of legislation. House Bill 81 introduces the Interstate Compact for School Psychologists, and House Bill 307 modifies the criteria for dyslexia screening among students.
Ballard expressed her gratitude towards Governor Kemp, stating, “I am thankful to Governor Kemp for signing these two key pieces of legislation into law today.” She highlighted her background in education, reflecting on the importance of mental health support and early reading intervention. “By investing in mental health resources and specialized educational services for our children, we help ensure that every student has the chance to reach their full potential. I am excited for the rollout of these services in schools across the state,” she added.
The purpose of House Bill 81 is to facilitate the relocation of school psychologists across state lines by allowing them to obtain licenses in participating states more easily. This aims to minimize barriers in licensure, while guaranteeing the delivery of psychological services by qualified professionals within schools.
House Bill 307, known as the Georgia Early Literacy and Dyslexia Act, focuses on providing interventions for students at risk of falling behind in reading proficiency or those exhibiting dyslexia symptoms. The act incorporates reading instruction based on scientific principles and discourages the primary use of three-cueing instruction methods. It also establishes the Georgia Literacy Plan Coordination Council to foster state literacy efforts and standardize training methods. Furthermore, the legislation extends the operational period of the Georgia Council on Literacy, changing its termination date from 2026 to 2030.
