March 8, 2014 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Lynette Maselli 304.357.7809 Lynette.Maselli@wvesnate.

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UNGER PLEASED WITH PASSAGE OF HB 4608 DEFINING DYSLEXIA BILL

CHARLESTON, W.V. Senate Majority Leader John Unger (D-Berkeley) applauded the passage today of House Bill 4608, the defining dyslexia bill. The bill defines dyslexia in accordance with the definition established by the International Dyslexia Association. Reading difficulties are the most common cause of academic failure and underachievement facing our children, says Unger. Compliance with standards of the International Dyslexia Association can assure the public those individuals who serve dyslexic students in public schools are prepared to implement scientifically based and clinically proven practices. . According to the International Dyslexia Association, approximately twenty-two percent of young students demonstrate significant weaknesses with language processes that are the root cause of dyslexia and related learning difficulties. Of those who are referred to special education services in public schools, approximately 85% are referred because of problems with language, reading, writing or a combination of each. Majority Leader Unger sponsored SB 412; an exact version of the House bill. SB 412 was filed for introduction in the Senate on January 22, 2014. House Bill 4608 that completed legislation today was filed for introduction on February 17, 2014

I appreciate my colleagues in the House taking up this bill. It will help many children and their families throughout West Virginia.

HB 4608 now goes to the Governor for approval. ###