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 increase access to American Sign Language (ASL) courses in Massachusetts public schools. The legislation seeks to establish ASL as a standard part of the curriculum, recognizing the value of bilingual education and promoting inclusivity for students who are Deaf or hard of hearing. By encouraging ASL instruction, the bill intends to improve communication and understanding within the school system and the broader community.
Key provisions
- Requires public schools to offer ASL courses.
- Supports the development of ASL teacher training programs.
- Encourages the integration of ASL into existing language arts curricula.
- Promotes the use of ASL in school-wide communication.
- Facilitates the creation of ASL learning resources for students and educators.
Who is affected
- Students in Massachusetts public schools
- Deaf and hard of hearing students
- ASL teachers
- Educators in Massachusetts public schools
- Parents of students in Massachusetts public schools
Notable changes
- Establishes ASL as a formally recognized language within the public school system.
- Expands access to ASL education for students.
- Recognizes the importance of bilingual education for students who are Deaf or hard of hearing.
Bill text
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Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
20 on record
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
Carmine Lawrence Gentile
Danillo A. Sena
Arguments
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