Senate President Pro Tempore Larry Walker III praised Governor Brian Kemp’s signing of House Bill 1193, the “Georgia Early Literacy Act of 2026,” according to a May 6 statement. The new law is designed to improve reading outcomes for young students and strengthen the state’s education system.
The legislation is significant because it aims to address early literacy, which supporters say is fundamental for student achievement and future success. HB 1193 introduces school-based and regional literacy coaches, requires unified literacy plans for all public schools, and expands access to instructional materials based on the science of reading.
“Strong reading skills are the foundation for a child’s achievement in school and in life,” said Sen. Walker. “This legislation takes a comprehensive approach to improving literacy by supporting our teachers and equipping our classrooms to cultivate confident, capable readers. We must give every child, no matter their background or zip code, a fair shot at success. Through HB 1193, we are setting our students, our workforce and our state up for long-term sustainability.”
House Bill 1193 mandates the implementation of literacy coaches in kindergarten through third grade schools, enhances professional development opportunities for educators, and establishes statewide coordination efforts through both the Georgia Literacy Coordinating Committee and Georgia Literacy Task Force. The bill also creates consistent statewide standards for instruction with approved curriculum materials and universal reading screeners while introducing targeted interventions for students at risk of falling behind.
Additional provisions require unified literacy plans across all school systems in Georgia as well as updates to placement and promotion policies so that advancing students are prepared academically. The law took effect following Governor Kemp’s signature on May 5.
Senator John F. Kennedy focused on legislative sponsorship during his time as a state senator; he held roles such as President Pro Tempore, chaired committees including Administrative Affairs, served ex-officio on several others such as Ethics and Finance, represented Georgia’s 18th District after being sworn into office on January 12, 2015; he maintained an office at 305-B CLOB in Atlanta—all according to the official website.
