OKLAHOMA CITY – Speaker of the House Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, has filed legislation to strengthen Oklahoma’s Strong Readers Act, reinforcing the state’s commitment to ensuring every child can read at or above grade level by the end of third grade.

“Reading is not optional, it is foundational,” Speaker Hilbert said. “If a child cannot read, they will struggle in every subject that follows. This bill puts students first by focusing on what works, holding the system accountable and giving parents clear information about their child’s progress.”

HB 4420 builds on Oklahoma’s early literacy efforts by requiring the use of proven, science-based reading instruction and eliminating ineffective methods that have failed generations of students. It strengthens early screening for reading deficiencies, ensures timely intervention and increases transparency for parents when a child is falling behind.

Key provisions of the bill emphasize:

• Early identification of reading deficiencies through consistent, statewide screening
• Targeted, intensive intervention grounded in the science of reading
• Clear communication with parents about their child’s reading progress and available supports
• Accountability measures to ensure students demonstrate reading proficiency before advancing
• Expanded teacher training and classroom support to improve instruction outcomes
• Encourages parents to incorporate reading into their child’s routine at home
• Creates a revolving fund to encourage public-private partnerships with outside orgs that care about this issue

The measure also reinforces that teachers should not move students to the next grade just because of their age or to avoid holding them back if they cannot read at the expected level, while preserving good-cause exemptions and additional supports for students with special needs and English language learners.

“Oklahoma must be honest about outcomes,” Hilbert said. “Advancing a child who cannot read is not compassionate, it’s negligent. This bill ensures students get the help they need early, rather than paying the price later.”

By strengthening intervention, improving instruction and prioritizing accountability, the legislation aims to reverse declining literacy rates and better prepare students for long-term academic and economic success.

“I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House, Senate, Governor Stitt and Superintendent Fields to get this across the finish line,” said Hilbert. “Oklahoma kids deserve urgency.”