HB46 Summary

• State Department of Education shall develop and award a State Seal of Biliteracy to high school graduates demonstrating intermediate proficiency in English and at least one other world language, including American Sign Language, with voluntary participation by school districts.

• Students must meet three criteria: completion of high school graduation requirements, English language proficiency (via ACT scores of 18+ English or 20+ reading, AP Language exam score of 3+, IB exam score of 5+, or equivalent benchmarks), and world language proficiency (via standardized exams or district-certified assessments meeting intermediate-mid level standards).

• State Department of Education must provide insignia to participating districts for affixing to diplomas and transcripts of students earning the seal, and provide necessary program implementation information to school districts.

• Participating school districts must maintain records of students earning the seal and affix the insignia to both diplomas and transcripts of qualified students.

• No fees may be charged to students for participation, and the act becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.