Congresswoman Houchin Manages Debate on House Floor for First Time on Parents Bill of Rights

WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Erin Houchin (R-Ind.-09) managed rule debate on the House Floor for the first time on the Parents Bill of Rights Act. She delivered opening remarks on the legislation to restore transparency inside the classroom, including her amendment to improve the declining rates of child literacy in the third grade. 

“The Parents Bill of Rights would secure a fundamental right that parents should always be guaranteed, their right to make informed decisions for their children. Our families in Indiana, and across the country, deserve debate on H.R. 5 and we plan to deliver. As a mother of three children in school, I know how important it is for parents to know what is happening inside the classroom. Unfortunately, this bill is necessary,” said Congresswoman Houchin.

“Yet, parents are left pleading. They are left to plead for information, to plead for safety of their kids in public restrooms, to plead for a quality education, and to plead for anyone who would listen to help restore their parental rights,” Congresswoman Houchin continued.

Congresswoman Houchin’s amendment would require parents to be notified when their student is not reading at a grade-level proficiency by the end of the third grade. Two weeks ago, the amendment passed markup in the House Education and Workforce Committee and was included in the final bill text.

“Our child literacy rates are falling behind, and the more parents can help, the better,” said Congresswoman Houchin.

Now that the rule providing for H.R. 5 has been adopted, the House will consider the bill with a vote tomorrow.

To watch the floor speech, click here.