H.R. 7327: Empowering Young Readers Act of 2026

The proposed bill known as the Empowering Young Readers Act of 2026 aims to establish a pilot program managed by the Secretary of Education focused on improving book access for children. Here is a breakdown of its main components:

Establishment of a Pilot Program

The bill requires the Secretary of Education to set up a pilot program within 180 days of its enactment. This program will provide grants on a competitive basis to eligible organizations. These organizations must apply for the grants and demonstrate their capability in enhancing book access through specific activities outlined later in the bill.

Eligibility and Application Process

Organizations interested in receiving a grant must be:

• A nongovernmental organization
• A nonprofit organization

To apply, these organizations must submit an application that includes:

• Details of previous work related to book access.
• A strategic plan for how they intend to use the grant funds to serve their community's needs regarding book access.
• A community leader's letter of support for the organization and its plan.

Grant Usage

Organizations awarded grants are expected to utilize the funds for one or more of the following activities:

• Purchasing or acquiring new or used books for children.
• Distributing books to children through delivery methods or events.
• Donating books to public libraries.
• Hosting literacy-related events, such as book fairs and reading hours.
• Any other book access-related activities deemed appropriate by the Secretary of Education.

Grant Amounts and Duration

Each grant will have a maximum value of $200,000 and will be available for a two-year period. This financial framework is designed to support substantial initiatives while ensuring accountability within the pilot program.

Viewpoint-Neutral Criteria

When reviewing grant applications, the Secretary must apply criteria that are neutral to personal beliefs or viewpoints, ensuring fairness in the selection process.

Reporting Requirements

After the final grant period expires, the Secretary is required to submit a report to Congress within six months. This report must include:

• Qualitative data on the activities funded by the grants, including how many books were distributed.
• Information on any changes in literacy rates in the communities served while the activities were in place, whenever such data is available.

Clarification on Donations

The bill clarifies that it does not limit public libraries or other organizations from rejecting any book donations if they choose to do so.

Definitions

The bill defines key terms such as:

• Child: An individual under 19 years of age.
• Eligible organization: A nongovernmental or nonprofit organization qualified to apply for the funding.

Funding Authorization

The legislation authorizes an appropriation of $10 million for the fiscal year 2026 to fund the pilot program, with funds available through fiscal year 2027.

Relevant Companies

None found