RI S3078

Redefines "dyslexia" in Rhode Island law from a general impairment in reading development to a specific learning disability characterized by difficulties in word reading and/or spelling involving accuracy, speed, or both

New definition recognizes dyslexia occurs along a continuum of severity and persists even with instruction effective for peers

Acknowledges dyslexia has complex causes involving genetic, neurobiological, and environmental influences, with underlying difficulties in phonological and morphological processing being common but not universal

Adds language recognizing secondary consequences including reading comprehension problems, reduced reading/writing experience, impacts on academic achievement, psychological well-being, and employment opportunities

Emphasizes that language and literacy support before and during early years of education is particularly effective for identification and intervention