Senate Resolution 61--Designating March 1, 2013, As ``Read Across America Day''

Floor Speech

Mr. REED (for himself and Ms. COLLINS) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to:

S. Res. 61

Whereas reading is a basic requirement for quality education and professional success, and is a source of pleasure throughout life;

Whereas the people of the United States must be able to read if the United States is to remain competitive in the global economy;

Whereas Congress has placed great emphasis on reading intervention and on providing additional resources for reading assistance, including through the programs authorized by the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6301 et seq.) and through annual appropriations for library and literacy programs; and

Whereas more than 50 national organizations concerned about reading and education have joined with the National Education Association to designate March 1, the day before the anniversary of the birth of Theodor Geisel (also known as Dr. Seuss), as a day to celebrate reading: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Senate--

(1) designates March 1, 2013, as ``Read Across America Day'';

(2) honors Theodor Geisel, also known as Dr. Seuss, for his success in encouraging children to discover the joy of reading;

(3) honors the 16th anniversary of ``Read Across America Day'';

(4) encourages parents to read with their children for at least 30 minutes on ``Read Across America Day'' in honor of the commitment of the Senate to building a country of readers; and

(5) encourages the people of the United States to observe ``Read Across America Day'' with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

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