Rep. Grijalva Holds Press Conference on Right to Read Act to Wrap Up Love of Reading Week
Proposed Legislation would provide funding for Literacy Grant Programs and Combat Book Bans
Tucson, Arizona - Representative Adelita Grijalva wrapped up “Love of Reading” week where she read to students at 13 different schools throughout AZ-07 by joining Tucson Unified School District (TUSD) administrators and educators to discuss her newly introduced Right to Read Act. The legislation would strengthen literacy outcomes nationwide by investing $500 million in Comprehensive Literacy State Development Grants and $100 million in the Innovative Approaches to Literacy program, prioritizing high-need communities.
The bill supports certified school librarians, expands access to evidence-based and culturally relevant reading materials, protects educators, and reaffirms First Amendment protections in school libraries amid rising book bans, including a proposal to criminalize librarians that is actively being considered at the Arizona State Legislature. Rep. Grijalva’s bill would provide liability protections for librarians and educators.
The bill responds to declining reading scores reported by the National Assessment of Educational Progress and growing concerns about restricted access to books, as documented by PEN America.
“Reading should never be a privilege - it’s a right,” said Rep. Grijalva. Spending time with students at Pueblo Gardens reinforced why we must invest in strong school libraries, support educators, and protect every child’s freedom to learn, explore, and see themselves reflected in the books they read.”
“Literacy opens doors for our students and strengthens our entire community,” said TUSD Board Member Natalie Luna Rose. “The Right to Read Act would give schools like those in TUSD the resources to support librarians, expand access to diverse books, and make sure every child has the chance to become a confident reader. And it allows for librarians and teachers to have the autonomy to ensure that students have access to books.”
“I support Rep. Grijalva’s Right to Read Act because too many states are like Arizona and do not properly fund public schools and deprive our children from access to fully funded, staffed and resourced education,” said Tucson Education Association President, Jim Byrne. “Educators in the classroom and in the library need first amendment protections reaffirmed because reactionaries in our state and others are choosing political attacks to the detriment of the educational rights of our children to learn critical thinking skills and the beautiful and powerful histories that our communities come from.”