All Roll Calls
Yes: 103 • No: 0
New MexicoSB 372026 Regular SessionSenate
HIGH QUALITY LITERACY INSTRUCTION ACT
Sponsored By: Mimi Stewart (Democratic)
Signed by Governor
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Bill Overview
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Reading checks and support for children
Beginning in 2027–2028, public schools must assess every kindergarten through third-grade student using state-adopted, grade-specific reading tests. Tests must screen for reading difficulties, including signs of dyslexia, identify skill gaps, and track progress with timely results. The first-grade test may replace the separate dyslexia screening required by existing law. After identifying a reading difficulty, schools must notify parents in writing within 30 days and provide tailored instruction or targeted or intensive support immediately after notice. The notice must explain skill gaps, eligibility for support, proposed help, a reading improvement plan, and four progress reports each year. Families also receive a customized read-at-home plan with suggested daily activities and guidance for tracking progress.
Evidence-based reading instruction for public schoolchildren
The law takes effect July 1, 2026, and requires New Mexico public schools to use structured, evidence-based reading instruction. Kindergarten through third-grade reading materials must be research-based, meet state standards, and appear on state-approved lists. Reading support materials through twelfth grade must respect students' languages and cultures and follow the same evidence-based approach. They cannot use three-cueing, which relies on context or pictures rather than decoding words. Instruction must support English learners and bilingual students, including reading in home languages where appropriate. Districts and charter schools must train reading teachers and school leaders on these practices and help for struggling readers.
Reading coaches for struggling elementary schools
Beginning in 2027–2028, the state must assign reading coaches to public elementary schools in the bottom quarter for reading proficiency statewide. Coaches support teachers for three consecutive school years, even when a school's reading results improve. Available funding determines whether a coach serves one school full-time or shares time among schools. Coaches must meet state qualifications covering professional credentials, a bachelor's degree, advanced reading coursework, and a reading endorsement or eligibility. State-designated schools with substantial English learner enrollment require coaches with additional biliteracy or English-language-development training and experience.
Stronger reading preparation and teacher-program oversight
Teacher preparation programs must teach evidence-based, structured reading methods in coursework and student teaching for entry-level teaching licenses. Candidates must learn to identify students reading below grade level. Elementary teacher candidates must complete at least 100 hours of supervised experience using these methods in public school classrooms. The state education department must set standards and review coursework, field experience, faculty qualifications, candidate results, and school partnerships. Programs must provide annual accountability information, including graduates' performance during their first three classroom years; the department must report annually on implementation and results. Programs that fail to meet standards can face required corrective action, probation, or loss of state approval.
Sponsors & Cosponsors
Sponsor
Mimi Stewart
Democratic • Senate
Cosponsors
Anthony L. Thornton
Republican • Senate
Candy Spence Ezzell
Republican • Senate
Catherine J. Cullen
Republican • House
Joy Garratt
Democratic • House
Martin Hickey
Democratic • Senate
Peter Wirth
Democratic • Senate
Roll Call Votes
House vote • 2/19/2026
Final House Vote
Yes: 64 • No: 0
Senate vote • 1/29/2026
Final Senate Vote
Yes: 39 • No: 0
Actions Timeline
Signed by Governor - Chapter 54 - Mar. 9
3/9/2026SenateSenate has concurred with House Amendments
2/19/2026SenatePassed in the House of Representatives - Y:64 N:0
2/19/2026HouseHEC: Reported by committee with Do Pass recommendation with amendment(s)
2/11/2026HouseHGEIC: Reported by committee with Do Pass recommendation
2/9/2026HouseSent to HGEIC - Referrals: HGEIC/HEC
2/3/2026SenatePassed in the Senate - Y:39 N:0
1/29/2026SenateSFC: Reported by committee with Do Pass recommendation
1/28/2026SenateSEC: Reported by committee with Do Pass recommendation
1/23/2026SenateSCC: Reported by committee to fall within the purview of a 30 day session
1/22/2026SenateSent to SCC - Referrals: SCC/SEC/SFC
1/21/2026Senate
Bill Text
Final Version
3/9/2026
HEC Committee Report 2/11/26
2/11/2026
HGEIC Committee Report 2/09/26
2/9/2026
SFC Committee Report 1/28/26
1/28/2026
SEC Committee Report 1/23/26
1/23/2026
SCC Committee Report 1/22/26
1/22/2026
Introduced
1/21/2026