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AB 3

Relating to: incorporating cursive writing into the state model English language arts standards and requiring cursive writing in elementary grades. (FE)

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Elijah Behnke and 14 co-sponsors

AB 3 - Cursive Writing in Elementary Education OverviewBill Number: AB 3 Title: Relating to: incorporating cursive writing into the state model English language arts standards and

Failed to concur in pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
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Bill Summary · AB 3

AB 3 - Cursive Writing in Elementary Education

Overview

Bill Number: AB 3
Title: Relating to: incorporating cursive writing into the state model English language arts standards and requiring cursive writing in elementary grades. (FE)
Status: Read first time and referred to committee on Education
Introduced: December 02, 2024

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of AB 3 is to reintroduce the teaching of cursive writing into the state's elementary school curriculum. The bill's sponsors argue that cursive writing provides important cognitive and educational benefits for young students, including improved fine motor skills, increased reading comprehension, and enhanced self-expression. By incorporating cursive into the state's English language arts standards, the legislation aims to ensure all elementary students receive instruction and practice in this traditional handwriting style.

Key Provisions

  • Requires the state Department of Education to incorporate cursive writing into the model English language arts standards for elementary grades
  • Mandates that all public and charter elementary schools provide cursive writing instruction, with students required to learn and demonstrate cursive handwriting proficiency
  • Directs the Department to develop cursive writing curriculum, assessment, and teacher training guidelines for schools to implement
  • Provides funding for schools to purchase cursive-specific instructional materials and provide professional development for teachers

Affected Parties and Impacts

The primary groups affected by AB 3 would be:

  • Elementary school students, who would be required to learn and demonstrate cursive writing skills as part of their core curriculum
  • Elementary school teachers, who would need to incorporate cursive instruction into their lesson plans and receive training on effective cursive teaching methods
  • School districts and administrators, who would be responsible for implementing the cursive writing requirements and allocating funding for related instructional resources and teacher development

Proponents argue the bill will have a positive impact by improving students' academic performance and fine motor development. Critics contend the mandate represents an unnecessary burden on schools and could detract from other important literacy priorities.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

AB 3 was recently introduced in the state legislature and has been referred to the Committee on Education for initial consideration. If approved by the committee, the bill would then proceed to a full floor vote in the state assembly. Given the bill's controversial nature, its path to passage remains uncertain at this stage. If enacted, the cursive writing requirements would likely be phased in over several school years to allow time for curriculum development and teacher training.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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