Kentucky 2026 Regular Session Status: Enacted Bipartisan · 4 D · 2 R cosponsors

HB 253 — AN ACT relating to education and declaring an emergency.

Last action — signed by Governor (Acts Ch. 74)

  1. ✓
    Introduced
  2. ✓
    In Committee
  3. ✓
    Passed House
  4. ✓
    Passed Senate
  5. ✓
    To Executive
  6. 6
    Enacted

This bill has been enacted into law. Introduced January 08, 2026. Enacted.

Signed by Governor Andy Beshear (Democratic) on April 10, 2026.

Prognosis

Likely to advance 98% · high confidence

  • Enacted

    Current position in the legislative process.

  • 6 sponsors

    6 primary, 0 co-sponsors signed on.

  • Bipartisan support

    Sponsored across 2 parties (4 D · 2 R) — cross-party backing.

  • Cleared a recorded vote

    Passed 3 recorded votes so far.

Based on stage, sponsorship breadth, committee status, recorded votes, and cross-state momentum — a description of the observable signals, not a prediction.

Summary

Create a new section of KRS Chapter 158 to define terms; require the Kentucky Department of Education to establish an approved list of reading curriculum and interventions that do not use a three-cueing system; prohibit school districts from using any curriculum or program that employs a three-cueing system; prohibit the use of a three-cueing system in teacher professional development; require the Educational Professional Standards Board to promulgate administrative regulations establishing curriculum for each approved educator preparation program; amend KRS 158.307 to require rather than allow local boards of education to develop a policy on dyslexia; require rather than allow the policy to include listed items; amend KRS 164.304 to require postsecondary institutions offering teacher preparation programs to include instruction on dyslexia by the 2027-2028 school year, rather than the instruction being contingent on funding availability; amend KRS 164.306 to specify that educator preparation programs shall use evidence-based reading instruction and intervention programs and shall not provide instruction on a three-cueing system; amend KRS 161.028 to require the board to include in the standards set for teacher preparation programs that the programs shall use evidence-based reading instruction and intervention programs and shall not provide instruction on a three-cueing system.

Bill Text

What changed in the latest version

1082 added · 1479 removed

1082 line(s) added, 1479 removed.

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UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN AN ACT relating to education and declaring an emergency.
CHAPTER 74 1 CHAPTER 74 ( HB 253 ) AN ACT relating to education and declaring an emergency.
(3) (a) By the 2029-2030 school year, no public school district shall use any Page 1 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN curriculum, reading intervention, or program of instruction that utilizes the three-cueing system of teaching students to read.
(3) (a) By the 2029-2030 school year, no public school district shall use any curriculum, reading intervention, or program of instruction that utilizes the three-cueing system of teaching students to read.
(a) "Dyslexia" means a specific learning disability that is neurological in origin.
Legislative Research Commission PDF Version ACTS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY (a) "Dyslexia" means a specific learning disability that is neurological in origin.
It Page 2 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN is characterized by difficulties with accurate or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities.
It is characterized by difficulties with accurate or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities.
(4) The department shall collaborate with the Education Professional Standards Board, Council on Postsecondary Education, and other groups as necessary to improve and Page 3 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN update professional development opportunities for teachers specifically related to dyslexia.
(4) The department shall collaborate with the Education Professional Standards Board, Council on Postsecondary Education, and other groups as necessary to improve and update professional development opportunities for teachers specifically related to dyslexia.
and Page 4 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN 6.
and 6.
(d) A process for how evaluation tools are administered and evaluated by trained district personnel or licensed professionals;
CHAPTER 74 3 (d) A process for how evaluation tools are administered and evaluated by trained district personnel or licensed professionals;
Page 5 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN (d) The number of students in kindergarten through grade three (3) that were identified with dyslexia;
(d) The number of students in kindergarten through grade three (3) that were identified with dyslexia;
Page 6 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN By the 2027-2028[2019-2020] academic year, postsecondary institutions offering teacher preparation programs for elementary and secondary regular education shall[, subject to available funds,] include instruction on:
By the 2027-2028[2019-2020] academic year, postsecondary institutions offering teacher preparation programs for elementary and secondary regular education shall[, subject to available funds,] include instruction on:
(3) Evidence-based interventions and accommodations for dyslexia and other disorders defined in KRS 158.305 and related literacy and learning challenges;
Legislative Research Commission PDF Version ACTS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY (3) Evidence-based interventions and accommodations for dyslexia and other disorders defined in KRS 158.305 and related literacy and learning challenges;
(a) The administration of specific assessment processes, [and ]programs, and Page 7 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN interventions used to identify student strengths and needs and that are determined by the Department of Education to be reliable and valid;
(a) The administration of specific assessment processes, [and ]programs, and interventions used to identify student strengths and needs and that are determined by the Department of Education to be reliable and valid;
(5)[(4)] The Education Professional Standards Board shall report program data to an external evaluator for analysis of postsecondary teacher preparation programs for interdisciplinary early childhood education or elementary regular education for the Page 8 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN goal of increasing the success of new teacher candidates in demonstrating reading instruction knowledge and skills.
(5)[(4)] The Education Professional Standards Board shall report program data to an external evaluator for analysis of postsecondary teacher preparation programs for interdisciplinary early childhood education or elementary regular education for the goal of increasing the success of new teacher candidates in demonstrating reading instruction knowledge and skills.
(a) Establish standards and requirements for obtaining and maintaining a teaching certificate;
CHAPTER 74 5 (a) Establish standards and requirements for obtaining and maintaining a teaching certificate;
Page 9 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN 7.
7.
Not provide instruction on teaching reading and language arts that incorporates a three-cueing system as defined in Section 1 of this Act;
Not provide instruction on teaching reading and language arts that incorporates a three- cueing system as defined in Section 1 of this Act;
issue a written reprimand or Page 10 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN admonishment;
issue a written reprimand or admonishment;
(j)[(h)] Receive, along with investigators hired by the Education Professional Standards Board, training on the dynamics of sexual misconduct of professionals, including the nature of this abuse of authority, characteristics of the offender, the impact on the victim, the possibility and the impact of false accusations, investigative procedures in sex offense cases, and effective intervention with victims and offenders;
(j)[(h)] Receive, along with investigators hired by the Education Professional Standards Board, training on the dynamics of sexual misconduct of professionals, including the nature of this abuse of authority, characteristics of the offender, the impact on the victim, the possibility and the impact of false Legislative Research Commission PDF Version ACTS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY accusations, investigative procedures in sex offense cases, and effective intervention with victims and offenders;
(l)[(j)] Submit reports to the Governor and the Legislative Research Commission and inform the public on the status of teaching in Kentucky;
(l)[(j)]Submit reports to the Governor and the Legislative Research Commission and inform the public on the status of teaching in Kentucky;
The proceeds shall be used to meet a portion of the costs of the issuance, reissuance, and Page 11 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN renewal of certificates, and the costs associated with disciplinary action against a certificate holder under KRS 161.120;
The proceeds shall be used to meet a portion of the costs of the issuance, reissuance, and renewal of certificates, and the costs associated with disciplinary action against a certificate holder under KRS 161.120;
The temporary certificate shall be valid for a maximum of two (2) years, and shall be contingent upon the candidate's continued enrollment in the preparation program and compliance Page 12 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN with all requirements established by the board.
The temporary certificate shall be valid for a maximum of two (2) years, and shall be contingent upon the candidate's continued enrollment in the preparation program and compliance with all requirements established by the board.
(t)[(r)] Enter into contracts.
(t)[(r)]Enter into contracts.
and (v)[(t)] Issue orders as necessary in any administrative action before the board.
and (v)[(t)]Issue orders as necessary in any administrative action before the board.
3.
CHAPTER 74 7 3.
(b) The members appointed by the Governor shall be confirmed by the Senate Page 13 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN under KRS 11.160.
(b) The members appointed by the Governor shall be confirmed by the Senate under KRS 11.160.
to appoint consultants Page 14 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN as needed;
to appoint consultants as needed;
(d)[(c)] "Clear CA/N check" means a letter from the Cabinet for Health and Page 15 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN Family Services indicating that there are no administrative findings of child abuse or neglect relating to a specific individual;
Legislative Research Commission PDF Version ACTS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY (d)[(c)] "Clear CA/N check" means a letter from the Cabinet for Health and Family Services indicating that there are no administrative findings of child abuse or neglect relating to a specific individual;
(b) When a vacancy occurs in a local school district, the superintendent shall submit the job posting to the statewide job posting system described in KRS Page 16 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN 160.152 fifteen (15) days before the position shall be filled.
(b) When a vacancy occurs in a local school district, the superintendent shall submit the job posting to the statewide job posting system described in KRS 160.152 fifteen (15) days before the position shall be filled.
However, the superintendent shall not promote a relative who continues Page 17 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN employment under an exception of this subsection;
However, the superintendent shall not promote a relative who continues employment under an exception of this subsection;
(4) No superintendent shall assign a certified or classified staff person to an alternative education program as part of any disciplinary action taken pursuant to KRS 161.011 or 161.790 as part of a corrective action plan established pursuant to the local district evaluation plan.
CHAPTER 74 9 (4) No superintendent shall assign a certified or classified staff person to an alternative education program as part of any disciplinary action taken pursuant to KRS 161.011 or 161.790 as part of a corrective action plan established pursuant to the local district evaluation plan.
A school district, public school, or nonpublic school that employs or Page 18 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN previously employed the applicant shall disclose any disciplinary action, and any resulting resignation or termination, related to abusive conduct while the applicant was employed by the school or school district;
A school district, public school, or nonpublic school that employs or previously employed the applicant shall disclose any disciplinary action, and any resulting resignation or termination, related to abusive conduct while the applicant was employed by the school or school district;
(d) Upon request from a school district under paragraph (c) of this subsection, the school district, public school, or nonpublic school of previous or current employment or the Educational Professional Standards Board shall provide Page 19 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN the requested information, if applicable, within ten (10) working days.
(d) Upon request from a school district under paragraph (c) of this subsection, the school district, public school, or nonpublic school of previous or current employment or the Educational Professional Standards Board shall provide the requested information, if applicable, within ten (10) working days.
4.
Legislative Research Commission PDF Version ACTS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY 4.
Certified individuals who were employed in another certified Page 20 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN position in a Kentucky school district within six (6) months of the date of hire and who had previously submitted to a national and state criminal background check and who have a clear CA/N check for the previous employment;
Certified individuals who were employed in another certified position in a Kentucky school district within six (6) months of the date of hire and who had previously submitted to a national and state criminal background check and who have a clear CA/N check for the previous employment;
and (e) The superintendent of a school district operating under an alternative transportation plan approved by the Kentucky Department of Education in accordance with KRS 156.153(3) shall require the driver of any non-school bus passenger vehicle authorized to transport students to and from school Page 21 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN pursuant to the alternative transportation plan who does not have a valid commercial driver's license issued in accordance with KRS Chapter 281A with an "S" endorsement to:
and (e) The superintendent of a school district operating under an alternative transportation plan approved by the Kentucky Department of Education in accordance with KRS 156.153(3) shall require the driver of any non-school bus passenger vehicle authorized to transport students to and from school pursuant to the alternative transportation plan who does not have a valid commercial driver's license issued in accordance with KRS Chapter 281A with an "S" endorsement to:
(b) Employment shall be contingent on the receipt of the criminal history background check documenting that the probationary employee has no record Page 22 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN of a sex crime nor as a violent offender as defined in KRS 17.165 and receipt of a letter, provided by the individual, from the Cabinet for Health and Family Services stating the employee is clear to hire based on no administrative findings of child abuse or neglect found through a background check of child abuse and neglect records maintained by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services.
(b) Employment shall be contingent on the receipt of the criminal history background check documenting that the probationary employee has no record of a sex crime nor as a violent offender as defined in KRS 17.165 and receipt of a letter, provided by the individual, from the Cabinet for Health and Family Services stating the employee is clear to hire based on no administrative findings of child abuse or CHAPTER 74 11 neglect found through a background check of child abuse and neglect records maintained by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services.
"FOR Page 23 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN THIS TYPE OF EMPLOYMENT, STATE LAW REQUIRES A NATIONAL AND STATE CRIMINAL HISTORY BACKGROUND CHECK AND A LETTER, PROVIDED BY THE INDIVIDUAL, FROM THE CABINET FOR HEALTH AND FAMILY SERVICES STATING THE APPLICANT HAS NO ADMINISTRATIVE FINDINGS OF CHILD ABUSE OR NEGLECT FOUND THROUGH A BACKGROUND CHECK OF CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT RECORDS MAINTAINED BY THE CABINET FOR HEALTH AND FAMILY SERVICES." (c) Each application form for a district position shall require the applicant to:
"FOR THIS TYPE OF EMPLOYMENT, STATE LAW REQUIRES A NATIONAL AND STATE CRIMINAL HISTORY BACKGROUND CHECK AND A LETTER, PROVIDED BY THE INDIVIDUAL, FROM THE CABINET FOR HEALTH AND FAMILY SERVICES STATING THE APPLICANT HAS NO ADMINISTRATIVE FINDINGS OF CHILD ABUSE OR NEGLECT FOUND THROUGH A BACKGROUND CHECK OF CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT RECORDS MAINTAINED BY THE CABINET FOR HEALTH AND FAMILY SERVICES." (c) Each application form for a district position shall require the applicant to:
If, after completion of an Page 24 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN investigation, the allegation is determined to be false or unsubstantiated, all records and references relating to the allegation shall be removed from the employee's personnel file.
If, after completion of an investigation, the allegation is determined to be false or unsubstantiated, all records and references relating to the allegation shall be removed from the employee's personnel file.
(13)[(11)] Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, each certified and classified employee of the school district shall notify the superintendent if he or she has been found by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services to have abused or neglected a child, and if he or she has waived the right to appeal a substantiated finding of child abuse or neglect or if the substantiated incident was upheld upon appeal.
Legislative Research Commission PDF Version ACTS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY (13)[(11)] Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, each certified and classified employee of the school district shall notify the superintendent if he or she has been found by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services to have abused or neglected a child, and if he or she has waived the right to appeal a substantiated finding of child abuse or neglect or if the substantiated incident was upheld upon appeal.
(14) The superintendent shall annually notify school district employees of the self- reporting requirements of subsections (12) and (13) of this section.
(14) The superintendent shall annually notify school district employees of the self-reporting requirements of subsections (12) and (13) of this section.
(15)[(12)] The form for requesting a CA/N check shall be made available on the Cabinet Page 25 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN for Health and Family Services website.
(15)[(12)] The form for requesting a CA/N check shall be made available on the Cabinet for Health and Family Services website.
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Every public middle and high school's curriculum shall include instruction on the Holocaust and other cases of genocide, as defined by the United Nations Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, that a court of competent jurisdiction, whether a court in the United States or the International Court of Justice, has determined to have been committed by applying rigorous standards of Page 26 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN due process;
Every public middle and high school's curriculum shall include instruction on the Holocaust and other cases of genocide, as defined by the United Nations Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, that a court of competent jurisdiction, whether a court in the United States or the International Court of Justice, has determined to have been committed by applying rigorous standards of due process;
Page 27 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN (f) Taking and keeping a school census, and the forms, blanks, and software to be used in taking and keeping the census and in compiling the required reports.
CHAPTER 74 13 (f) Taking and keeping a school census, and the forms, blanks, and software to be used in taking and keeping the census and in compiling the required reports.
The administrative regulations Page 28 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN shall require evidence that a vision examination that meets the criteria prescribed by the Kentucky Board of Education has been performed.
The administrative regulations shall require evidence that a vision examination that meets the criteria prescribed by the Kentucky Board of Education has been performed.
(o) The disposal of real and personal property owned by local boards of Page 29 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN education;
(o) The disposal of real and personal property owned by local boards of education;
Awarding a diploma, at the student's request, by a district from which the student transferred, if the student transfers schools at any time after the completion of the student's second year of high school and the student is ineligible to graduate from the district to which the student transfers, but meets the graduation requirements of the district from which the student transferred;
Awarding a diploma, at the student's request, by a district from which the student transferred, if the student transfers schools at any time after the completion of the student's second year of high Legislative Research Commission PDF Version ACTS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY school and the student is ineligible to graduate from the district to which the student transfers, but meets the graduation requirements of the district from which the student transferred;
Page 30 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN (a) Curriculum, certification, and textbook standards established by the Kentucky Board of Education;
(a) Curriculum, certification, and textbook standards established by the Kentucky Board of Education;
Page 31 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN 2.
2.
(3)[(2)] (a) When a certified nonpublic[If a] school requires a criminal background check or requires a clear CA/N check under this section[for a new hire], the school shall conspicuously include the following disclosure statement on each application or renewal form provided by the employer to an applicant for a certified position:
(3)[(2)] (a) When a certified nonpublic[If a] school requires a criminal background check or requires a clear CA/N check under this section[for a new hire], the school shall conspicuously include the following disclosure statement on each application or renewal form provided by the employer to an applicant for a CHAPTER 74 15 certified position:
"STATE LAW AUTHORIZES THIS SCHOOL TO REQUIRE A CRIMINAL HISTORY BACKGROUND CHECK AND A LETTER, PROVIDED BY THE INDIVIDUAL, FROM THE CABINET FOR HEALTH AND FAMILY SERVICES STATING THE APPLICANT HAS NO ADMINISTRATIVE FINDINGS OF[IS CLEAR TO HIRE Page 32 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN BASED ON NO FINDINGS OF SUBSTANTIATED] CHILD ABUSE OR NEGLECT FOUND THROUGH A BACKGROUND CHECK OF CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT RECORDS MAINTAINED BY THE CABINET FOR HEALTH AND FAMILY SERVICES[AS A CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT FOR THIS TYPE OF POSITION]." (b) The school or school board may require an adult who is permitted access to school grounds on a regularly scheduled and continuing basis pursuant to a written agreement for the purpose of providing services directly to a student or students as part of a school-sponsored program or activity, a volunteer, or a visitor to submit to a national criminal history check by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and state criminal history background check by the Department of Kentucky State Police or Administrative Office of the Courts and require a clear CA/N check.
"STATE LAW AUTHORIZES THIS SCHOOL TO REQUIRE A CRIMINAL HISTORY BACKGROUND CHECK AND A LETTER, PROVIDED BY THE INDIVIDUAL, FROM THE CABINET FOR HEALTH AND FAMILY SERVICES STATING THE APPLICANT HAS NO ADMINISTRATIVE FINDINGS OF[IS CLEAR TO HIRE BASED ON NO FINDINGS OF SUBSTANTIATED] CHILD ABUSE OR NEGLECT FOUND THROUGH A BACKGROUND CHECK OF CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT RECORDS MAINTAINED BY THE CABINET FOR HEALTH AND FAMILY SERVICES[AS A CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT FOR THIS TYPE OF POSITION]." (b) The school or school board may require an adult who is permitted access to school grounds on a regularly scheduled and continuing basis pursuant to a written agreement for the purpose of providing services directly to a student or students as part of a school-sponsored program or activity, a volunteer, or a visitor to submit to a national criminal history check by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and state criminal history background check by the Department of Kentucky State Police or Administrative Office of the Courts and require a clear CA/N check.
(4)[(3)] (a) A certified nonpublic school shall[voluntarily implementing the provisions of this chapter may choose] not[ to] employ any person who is a violent offender as defined by KRS 17.165(2), has been convicted of a sex Page 33 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN crime which is classified as a felony as defined by KRS 17.165(1), or has committed a violent crime as defined in KRS 17.165(3) or persons with a substantiated finding of child abuse or neglect in records maintained by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services.
(4)[(3)] (a) A certified nonpublic school shall[voluntarily implementing the provisions of this chapter may choose] not[ to] employ any person who is a violent offender as defined by KRS 17.165(2), has been convicted of a sex crime which is classified as a felony as defined by KRS 17.165(1), or has committed a violent crime as defined in KRS 17.165(3) or persons with a substantiated finding of child abuse or neglect in records maintained by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services.
Page 34 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN Section 10.
Section 10.
(2) All certified school district employees and public charter school employees shall complete at least one (1) hour of each of the following trainings within twelve (12) months of initial hire and at least once every four (4) years thereafter:
Legislative Research Commission PDF Version ACTS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY (2) All certified school district employees and public charter school employees shall complete at least one (1) hour of each of the following trainings within twelve (12) months of initial hire and at least once every four (4) years thereafter:
As used in this paragraph, "postvention" means a series of planned supports and interventions with persons affected by a suicide for the purpose of facilitating the grieving or adjustment process, stabilizing the environment, reducing the risk of negative behaviors, and limiting the Page 35 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN risk of further suicides through contagion;
As used in this paragraph, "postvention" means a series of planned supports and interventions with persons affected by a suicide for the purpose of facilitating the grieving or adjustment process, stabilizing the environment, reducing the risk of negative behaviors, and limiting the risk of further suicides through contagion;
(4) The department shall provide or facilitate optional, professional development programs for certified personnel throughout the Commonwealth that are based on Page 36 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN the statewide needs of teachers, administrators, and other education personnel.
(4) The department shall provide or facilitate optional, professional development programs for certified personnel throughout the Commonwealth that are based on the statewide needs of teachers, administrators, and other education personnel.
(f) Nongraded primary programs;
CHAPTER 74 17 (f) Nongraded primary programs;
Page 37 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN (j) Instruction in reading, including phonics, phonemic awareness, comprehension, fluency, and vocabulary;
(j) Instruction in reading, including phonics, phonemic awareness, comprehension, fluency, and vocabulary;
The funds may be used throughout the year for all staff, Page 38 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN including classified and certified staff and parents on school councils or committees.
The funds may be used throughout the year for all staff, including classified and certified staff and parents on school councils or committees.
(8) (a) By May 1, 2027, the Kentucky Department of Education, in collaboration with the Education Professional Standards Board, shall develop a training for school district employees, to be available via multiple delivery options, related to appropriate relationships and communication with students, inappropriate relationships and communication with students, sexual grooming, and sexual misconduct.
(8) (a) By May 1, 2027, the Kentucky Department of Education, in collaboration with the Education Professional Standards Board, shall develop a training for school district employees, to be available via multiple delivery options, related to appropriate relationships and communication with students, inappropriate relationships and communication with students, sexual grooming, and sexual Legislative Research Commission PDF Version ACTS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY misconduct.
Page 39 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN (b) Beginning with the 2027-2028 school year, every local school district shall require all new employees to undergo the training described in paragraph (a) of this subsection within ninety (90) days of the employee's initial hiring.
(b) Beginning with the 2027-2028 school year, every local school district shall require all new employees to undergo the training described in paragraph (a) of this subsection within ninety (90) days of the employee's initial hiring.
Page 40 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN (a) Identify at-risk students early in elementary schools as well as at-risk and potential dropouts in the middle and high schools;
(a) Identify at-risk students early in elementary schools as well as at-risk and potential dropouts in the middle and high schools;
(2) The provisions of subsection (1) of this section shall not preclude a school district Page 41 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN from separately investigating, taking action upon, and creating and maintaining records on the same or a similar fact situation upon which the allegations of a criminal offense was based.
(2) The provisions of subsection (1) of this section shall not preclude a school district from separately investigating, taking action upon, and creating and maintaining records on the same or a similar fact situation upon which the allegations of a criminal offense was based.
A person providing services as a guardian may only include honorably discharged veterans, retired Kentucky state troopers, retired special and sworn law enforcement officers, and former federal law enforcement officers.
A person providing services as a guardian may only include honorably discharged veterans, retired Kentucky CHAPTER 74 19 state troopers, retired special and sworn law enforcement officers, and former federal law enforcement officers.
(d) Has completed and passed background checks as required pursuant to subsection (7)(a) of Section 7 of this Act[KRS 160.380(6)(a)], and has not been convicted of any felony, any misdemeanor under KRS 510.120, 510.130, 510.140, or 510.148, or a criminal attempt, conspiracy, facilitation, or solicitation to commit any degree of rape, sodomy, sexual abuse, or sexual misconduct under KRS Chapter 510, or have had any offense listed in this Page 42 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN paragraph expunged;
(d) Has completed and passed background checks as required pursuant to subsection (7)(a) of Section 7 of this Act[KRS 160.380(6)(a)], and has not been convicted of any felony, any misdemeanor under KRS 510.120, 510.130, 510.140, or 510.148, or a criminal attempt, conspiracy, facilitation, or solicitation to commit any degree of rape, sodomy, sexual abuse, or sexual misconduct under KRS Chapter 510, or have had any offense listed in this paragraph expunged;
(j) Has been honorably discharged from the Armed Forces of the United States within the five (5) years immediately preceding an initial contract to be a guardian as evidenced by a Department of Defense form DD 214, or is a retired Kentucky state trooper, retired special or sworn law enforcement Page 43 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN officer, or former federal law enforcement officer.
(j) Has been honorably discharged from the Armed Forces of the United States within the five (5) years immediately preceding an initial contract to be a guardian as evidenced by a Department of Defense form DD 214, or is a retired Kentucky state trooper, retired special or sworn law enforcement officer, or former federal law enforcement officer.
(7) Any cost associated with subsections (3) to (6) of this section shall be the responsibility of the guardian unless otherwise agreed to by the employing local board of education.
Legislative Research Commission PDF Version ACTS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY (7) Any cost associated with subsections (3) to (6) of this section shall be the responsibility of the guardian unless otherwise agreed to by the employing local board of education.
Page 44 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN (c) The procedures, processes, and chain of command to be used during an emergency in which law enforcement agencies are called to the school;
(c) The procedures, processes, and chain of command to be used during an emergency in which law enforcement agencies are called to the school;
(2) The participating trade organization shall ensure ample opportunities for school counselors that serve grades seven (7) through twelve (12) to complete the training Page 45 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN created under subsection (1) of this section annually and shall bear all costs associated with the training.
(2) The participating trade organization shall ensure ample opportunities for school counselors that serve grades seven (7) through twelve (12) to complete the training created under subsection (1) of this section annually and shall bear all costs associated with the training.
(2) (a) Local boards of education shall allow pupils to be excused for up to one (1) hour on no more than one (1) day each week, which shall include time attributed to travel to and from, to attend a district-approved request for a moral instruction offering upon receiving the consent of the pupil's parent or guardian.
(2) (a) Local boards of education shall allow pupils to be excused for up to one (1) hour on no more than one (1) day each week, which shall include time attributed to travel to and from, to attend a district- CHAPTER 74 21 approved request for a moral instruction offering upon receiving the consent of the pupil's parent or guardian.
(c) Pupil participation in moral instruction shall be voluntary and free from Page 46 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN coercion by school personnel.
(c) Pupil participation in moral instruction shall be voluntary and free from coercion by school personnel.
and (g) Proof of insurance coverage to be carried by the provider that shall include adequate insurance for liability, property loss, and personal injury of students related to the moral instruction offering or transportation to or from the Page 47 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN offering.
and (g) Proof of insurance coverage to be carried by the provider that shall include adequate insurance for liability, property loss, and personal injury of students related to the moral instruction offering or transportation to or from the offering.
Page 48 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN (a) Credited with the time of attendance as if he or she had been in actual attendance in school, and the time shall be included as part of the actual school work required in KRS 158.060.
Legislative Research Commission PDF Version ACTS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY (a) Credited with the time of attendance as if he or she had been in actual attendance in school, and the time shall be included as part of the actual school work required in KRS 158.060.
(b) The Kentucky Department of Education shall compile the quarterly reports required by this subsection and submit a combined report to the Legislative Page 49 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed UNOFFICIAL COPY 26 RS HB 253/EN Research Commission no later than December 1 of each year for referral to the appropriate Interim Joint Committee on Education.
(b) The Kentucky Department of Education shall compile the quarterly reports required by this subsection and submit a combined report to the Legislative Research Commission no later than December 1 of each year for referral to the appropriate Interim Joint Committee on Education.
Page 50 of 50 HB025320.100 - 281 - XXXX 3/31/2026 12:58 PM Engrossed
Signed by Governor April 10, 2026.
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How this bill changes current law

7 changes Share ↗

Compared against the Kentucky Revised Statutes as published AI-generated reading aid — verify against the official bill.

The bill amends KRS 158.307 to enhance regulations regarding dyslexia instruction and assessment in schools and amend the requirements for teacher preparation programs.

  • KRS 158.307

    By January 1, 2019,

    Removes the specific deadline for making available the dyslexia toolkit.

  • KRS 158.307

    [may]

    Changes the permissive language regarding local boards of education developing a policy for dyslexia assistance to mandatory.

  • KRS 158.307

    after the positive identification

    Removes a phrase clarifying when monitoring a student's progress will take place.

  • KRS 158.307

    [that developed a policy addressing the implementation of a program for the identification of and strategies for assisting students in kindergarten through grade three (3) with dyslexia ]

    Narrow the reporting requirement for local school districts to all districts, rather than only those that have developed a specific policy.

  • KRS 158.307

    through the response-to-intervention process

    Removes stipulation on how students needing enrichment programs are identified.

  • KRS 158.307

    and the number of trained district personnel or licensed professionals used to administer the dyslexia evaluation tools.

    Removes requirement for reporting the number of trained personnel administering dyslexia evaluation tools.

  • KRS 164.304

    2019-2020 → 2027-2028

    Changes the deadline by which teacher preparation programs must include dyslexia instruction.

Action History

  1. signed by Governor (Acts Ch. 74)

  2. delivered to Governor

  3. enrolled, signed by President of the Senate

  4. enrolled, signed by Speaker of the House

  5. passed 93-1

  6. House concurred in Committee Substitute (1), Floor Amendment (2) and Floor Amendment (3-title)

  7. posted for passage for concurrence in Senate Floor Amendments (2) and (3-title) and Committee Substitute (1)

  8. to Rules (H)

  9. received in House

  10. passed 38-0 with Committee Substitute (1), Floor Amendment (2) and Floor Amendment (3-title)

  11. floor amendment (1) withdrawn

  12. 3rd reading

  13. passed over and retained in the Orders of the Day

  14. posted for passage in the Regular Orders of the Day for Tuesday, March 24 2026

  15. floor amendments (1) and (2) filed to Committee Substitute , floor amendment (3-title) filed to bill

  16. 2nd reading, to Rules

  17. reported favorably, 1st reading, to Calendar with Committee Substitute (1) and Committee Amendment (1-title)

  18. to Education (S)

  19. to Committee on Committees (S)

  20. received in Senate

  21. 3rd reading, passed 94-1 with Committee Substitute (1)

  22. posted for passage in the Regular Orders of the Day for Wednesday, February 11 2026

  23. 2nd reading, to Rules

  24. reported favorably, 1st reading, to Calendar with Committee Substitute (1)

  25. to Primary and Secondary Education (H)

  26. to Committee on Committees (H)

  27. introduced in House

Sponsors

Sponsorship breakdown

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6 sponsors · 0 co-sponsors · 132 not signed on · 1 voted No

Sponsors (6)

Co-sponsors (0)

None.

Not signed on (132)

132 members have not signed on to this bill.

Show all 132 →

"Not signed on" means a member has not sponsored or co-sponsored this bill — it does not imply opposition. Members flagged Voted No have a recorded No vote on this bill.

Whip count is in markup. Polling the chamber and every recorded vote this session. Only the first open is slow. It’s instant for you after this. Calling the roll · Tallying · Engrossing

Votes

Final Passage

Passed 93 Yea · 1 Nay · 6 Other
Party YeaNayPresentNot Voting
Democrat 17102
Republican 75004
Unaffiliated 1000
Total 93106
% of votes cast 93%1%0%6%
How each member voted (100)
Member Party Vote
Lewis C — Yea
Adam Moore Democrat Yea
Adrielle Camuel Democrat Nay
Al Gentry Democrat Yea
Anne Gay Donworth Democrat Yea
Ashley Tackett Laferty Democrat Yea
Beverly Chester-Burton Democrat Yea
Chad Aull Democrat Yea
Daniel Grossberg Democrat Yea
Erika Hancock Democrat Yea
George Brown Jr. Democrat Yea
Joshua Watkins Democrat Not Voting
Lindsey Burke Democrat Yea
Lisa Willner Democrat Yea
Mary Lou Marzian Democrat Yea
Matthew Lehman Democrat Yea
Nima Kulkarni Democrat Yea
Pamela Stevenson Democrat Not Voting
Rachel Roarx Democrat Yea
Sarah Stalker Democrat Yea
Tina Bojanowski Democrat Yea
Aaron Thompson Republican Yea
Adam Bowling Republican Yea
Amy Neighbors Republican Yea
Bill Wesley Republican Yea
Bobby McCool Republican Yea
Candy Massaroni Republican Yea
Chris Freeland Republican Yea
Chris Fugate Republican Yea
DJ Johnson Republican Yea
Daniel Elliott Republican Not Voting
Daniel Fister Republican Yea
David Hale Republican Yea
David Meade Republican Yea
David W. Osborne Republican Yea
Deanna Gordon Republican Yea
Derek Lewis Republican Yea
Emily Callaway Republican Yea
Felicia Rabourn Republican Yea
J.T. Payne Republican Yea
James Tipton Republican Yea
Jared Bauman Republican Yea
Jason Nemes Republican Yea
Jason Petrie Republican Yea
Jennifer Decker Republican Yea
Jim Gooch Jr. Republican Yea
John Blanton Republican Yea
John Hodgson Republican Yea
Josh Branscum Republican Yea
Josh Bray Republican Yea
Josh Calloway Republican Yea
Ken Fleming Republican Yea
Ken Upchurch Republican Yea
Kevin Jackson Republican Yea
Kim Banta Republican Yea
Kim Holloway Republican Yea
Kim King Republican Yea
Kimberly Poore Moser Republican Yea
Marianne Proctor Republican Yea
Mark Hart Republican Yea
Mary Beth Imes Republican Yea
Matt Lockett Republican Yea
Matthew Koch Republican Yea
Michael Meredith Republican Yea
Michael Sarge Pollock Republican Yea
Mike Clines Republican Not Voting
Mitch Whitaker Republican Yea
Myron Dossett Republican Yea
Nancy Tate Republican Yea
Nick Wilson Republican Yea
Patrick Flannery Republican Yea
Peyton Griffee Republican Yea
Randy Bridges Republican Yea
Rebecca Raymer Republican Yea
Richard White Republican Yea
Robert Duvall Republican Yea
Ryan Bivens Republican Yea
Ryan Dotson Republican Yea
Samara Heavrin Republican Yea
Savannah Maddox Republican Yea
Scott Lewis Republican Yea
Scott Sharp Republican Yea
Shane Baker Republican Yea
Shawn McPherson Republican Yea
Stephanie Dietz Republican Yea
Steve Bratcher Republican Yea
Steve Riley Republican Yea
Steven Doan Republican Yea
Steven Rudy Republican Yea
Susan Witten Republican Yea
Suzanne Miles Republican Yea
T.J. Roberts Republican Yea
Thomas Huff Republican Yea
Timmy Truett Republican Not Voting
Tom Smith Republican Yea
Tony Hampton Republican Yea
Vanessa Grossl Republican Yea
Wade Williams Republican Yea
Walker Thomas Republican Yea
William Lawrence Republican Not Voting

Official roll call →

PASS HB 253 w/ SCS 1, SFA 2, SFA 3 (T)

Passed 38 Yea · 0 Nay
Party YeaNayPresentNot Voting
Democrat 5000
Republican 33000
Total 38000
% of votes cast 100%0%0%0%
How each member voted (38)
Member Party Vote
Cassie Chambers Armstrong Democrat Yea
Gary Clemons Democrat Yea
Gerald A. Neal Democrat Yea
Karen Berg Democrat Yea
Keturah J. Herron Democrat Yea
Aaron Reed Republican Yea
Amanda Mays Bledsoe Republican Yea
Brandon J. Storm Republican Yea
Christian McDaniel Republican Yea
Craig Richardson Republican Yea
Danny Carroll Republican Yea
David P. Givens Republican Yea
Donald Douglas Republican Yea
Gary Boswell Republican Yea
Greg Elkins Republican Yea
Jared Carpenter Republican Yea
Jason Howell Republican Yea
Jason Nemes Republican Yea
Jimmy Higdon Republican Yea
Julie Raque Adams Republican Yea
Lindsey Tichenor Republican Yea
Matt Nunn Republican Yea
Matthew Deneen Republican Yea
Max Wise Republican Yea
Michael Meredith Republican Yea
Nick Wilson Republican Yea
Phillip Wheeler Republican Yea
Rick Girdler Republican Yea
Robby Mills Republican Yea
Robert Stivers Republican Yea
Robin L. Webb Republican Yea
Scott Madon Republican Yea
Shelley Funke Frommeyer Republican Yea
Stephen West Republican Yea
Steve Rawlings Republican Yea
Tom Smith Republican Yea
Wade Williams Republican Yea
Walker Thomas Republican Yea

Official roll call →

Pass

Passed 94 Yea · 1 Nay · 5 Other
Party YeaNayPresentNot Voting
Democrat 18101
Republican 75004
Unaffiliated 1001
Total 94106
% of votes cast 93%1%0%6%
How each member voted (101)
Member Party Vote
Lewis C — Yea
COMMONWEALTH OF KENTUCKY SENATE — Not Voting
Adam Moore Democrat Yea
Adrielle Camuel Democrat Nay
Al Gentry Democrat Yea
Anne Gay Donworth Democrat Yea
Ashley Tackett Laferty Democrat Not Voting
Beverly Chester-Burton Democrat Yea
Chad Aull Democrat Yea
Daniel Grossberg Democrat Yea
Erika Hancock Democrat Yea
George Brown Jr. Democrat Yea
Joshua Watkins Democrat Yea
Lindsey Burke Democrat Yea
Lisa Willner Democrat Yea
Mary Lou Marzian Democrat Yea
Matthew Lehman Democrat Yea
Nima Kulkarni Democrat Yea
Pamela Stevenson Democrat Yea
Rachel Roarx Democrat Yea
Sarah Stalker Democrat Yea
Tina Bojanowski Democrat Yea
Aaron Thompson Republican Yea
Adam Bowling Republican Yea
Amy Neighbors Republican Yea
Bill Wesley Republican Yea
Bobby McCool Republican Yea
Candy Massaroni Republican Yea
Chris Freeland Republican Yea
Chris Fugate Republican Yea
DJ Johnson Republican Yea
Daniel Elliott Republican Yea
Daniel Fister Republican Yea
David Hale Republican Yea
David Meade Republican Yea
David W. Osborne Republican Yea
Deanna Gordon Republican Yea
Derek Lewis Republican Yea
Emily Callaway Republican Yea
Felicia Rabourn Republican Not Voting
J.T. Payne Republican Yea
James Tipton Republican Yea
Jared Bauman Republican Yea
Jason Nemes Republican Yea
Jason Petrie Republican Yea
Jennifer Decker Republican Yea
Jim Gooch Jr. Republican Yea
John Blanton Republican Yea
John Hodgson Republican Yea
Josh Branscum Republican Yea
Josh Bray Republican Yea
Josh Calloway Republican Yea
Ken Fleming Republican Yea
Ken Upchurch Republican Yea
Kevin Jackson Republican Yea
Kim Banta Republican Yea
Kim Holloway Republican Yea
Kim King Republican Yea
Kimberly Poore Moser Republican Yea
Marianne Proctor Republican Yea
Mark Hart Republican Yea
Mary Beth Imes Republican Yea
Matt Lockett Republican Yea
Matthew Koch Republican Yea
Michael Meredith Republican Yea
Michael Sarge Pollock Republican Yea
Mike Clines Republican Yea
Mitch Whitaker Republican Yea
Myron Dossett Republican Yea
Nancy Tate Republican Yea
Nick Wilson Republican Yea
Patrick Flannery Republican Yea
Peyton Griffee Republican Yea
Randy Bridges Republican Yea
Rebecca Raymer Republican Yea
Richard White Republican Yea
Robert Duvall Republican Yea
Ryan Bivens Republican Yea
Ryan Dotson Republican Not Voting
Samara Heavrin Republican Yea
Savannah Maddox Republican Yea
Scott Lewis Republican Yea
Scott Sharp Republican Yea
Shane Baker Republican Yea
Shawn McPherson Republican Yea
Stephanie Dietz Republican Yea
Steve Bratcher Republican Yea
Steve Riley Republican Not Voting
Steven Doan Republican Yea
Steven Rudy Republican Yea
Susan Witten Republican Yea
Suzanne Miles Republican Yea
T.J. Roberts Republican Yea
Thomas Huff Republican Yea
Timmy Truett Republican Yea
Tom Smith Republican Yea
Tony Hampton Republican Yea
Vanessa Grossl Republican Yea
Wade Williams Republican Yea
Walker Thomas Republican Yea
William Lawrence Republican Not Voting

Official roll call →

Subjects

education
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Frequently asked questions

What does HB 253 do?
Create a new section of KRS Chapter 158 to define terms; require the Kentucky Department of Education to establish an approved list of reading curriculum and interventions that do not use a three-cueing system; prohibit school districts from using any curriculum or program that employs a three-cueing system; prohibit the use of a three-cueing system in teacher professional development; require the Educational Professional Standards Board to promulgate administrative regulations establishing curriculum for each approved educator preparation program; amend KRS 158.307 to require rather than allow local boards of education to develop a policy on dyslexia; require rather than allow the policy to include listed items; amend KRS 164.304 to require postsecondary institutions offering teacher preparation programs to include instruction on dyslexia by the 2027-2028 school year, rather than the instruction being contingent on funding availability; amend KRS 164.306 to specify that educator preparation programs shall use evidence-based reading instruction and intervention programs and shall not provide instruction on a three-cueing system; amend KRS 161.028 to require the board to include in the standards set for teacher preparation programs that the programs shall use evidence-based reading instruction and intervention programs and shall not provide instruction on a three-cueing system.
Who sponsors HB 253?
HB 253 is sponsored by Pamela Stevenson (Democrat), Kevin Jackson (Republican), Daniel Grossberg (Democrat), Beverly Chester-Burton (Democrat), Tina Bojanowski (Democrat), and James Tipton (Republican).
What is the current status of HB 253?
This bill has been enacted into law. Introduced January 08, 2026. Enacted.
Where can I track HB 253?
Track HB 253 free on One Click Politics — get push/email alerts when it moves.

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