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3/2/2017
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Rep. Brian C. Newberry submits legislation requiring civic literacy in local schools
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 Rep. Brian C. Newberry submits legislation requiring civic literacy in local schools
STATE HOUSE — Rep. Brian C. Newberry (R-District 48 North Smithfield, Burrillville) has proposed ‘The Civics Literacy Act,' which if passed, would require the commissioner of elementary and secondary education to adopt a course of study promoting civic literacy.
The course of study, proposed by Representative Newberry was introduced over general concern that civic literacy is declining nationwide. It would focus on the nation’s founding and related documents, including the Declaration of Independence, the United States Constitution, and the Federalist Papers.
“The adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and the signing of the United States Constitution were principal events in the history of the United States and should be mandatory learning for students, so they may better understand the foundation upon which our great nation was founded,” said Representative Newberry.
He added, “The Federalist Papers embody the most eloquent and forceful argument made in support of the adoption of our republican form of government. These documents stand as the foundation of our form of democracy, providing at the same time the basis of our national identity and the vehicle for orderly growth and change.”
Under Representative Newberry’s legislation, the teaching of the nation’s founding and related documents, which would include the Declaration of Independence, the United States Constitution, and the Federalist Papers, would be required during a student’s high school years.
“I am also asking, under this legislation, that the commissioner of elementary and secondary education submit an annual report to the Governor and the legislature, describing the specific rules and regulations, which it will use to measure and report the effectiveness of these courses,” Representative Newberry stated.
Co-sponsors of this act include Representatives Gregg M. Amore (D-District 65 East Providence), Christopher R. Blazejewski (D-District 2 Providence), John G. Edwards (D-District 70 Portsmouth, Tiverton), and Jason P. Knight (D-District 67 Barrington, Warren).
For more information, contact:
Raina C. Smith, House Minority Office
State House Room 106
Providence, RI 02903
(401) 222-2259
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