An Act to promote the inclusion of American Sign Language in the Commonwealth’s public schools, AKA The American Sign Language Inclusion Act
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill, known as the American Sign Language Inclusion Act, aims to expand the availability of American Sign Language (ASL) courses in Massachusetts public schools. The legislation seeks to ensure that students have access to learning ASL, promoting inclusivity and communication for students who are Deaf or hard of hearing. It encourages schools to integrate ASL into their curriculum, recognizing the value of this language and culture. The bill builds upon previous attempts to establish ASL education in the state.
Key provisions
- Requires public schools to offer ASL courses.
- Encourages the development of ASL programs and resources.
- Supports teacher training in ASL.
- Promotes the inclusion of ASL in existing language arts curricula.
- Facilitates collaboration between schools and Deaf community organizations.
Who is affected
- Students in Massachusetts public schools
- Deaf and hard of hearing students
- Teachers and school administrators
- Massachusetts public schools
- The Deaf community
Notable changes
- Expands upon previous efforts to introduce ASL education.
- Creates a framework for consistent ASL instruction across the state.
- Recognizes ASL as a valuable language and cultural asset.
Bill text
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Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
20 on record
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
Carmine Lawrence Gentile
Danillo A. Sena
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