DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part of the
legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute part of the law
or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
HB 970 Engrossed 2022 Regular Session White
Abstract: Creates an early childhood literacy program for the purpose of delivering an age-
appropriate book monthly to certain children under the age of five.
Proposed law establishes an early childhood literacy program for the purpose of delivering an age-
appropriate book monthly to each child younger than age five in families that qualify for
participation in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children
(WIC). Proposed law further requires:
(1)The state Dept. of Education to select a La.-based nonprofit organization with a mission
related to children's literacy to administer the program, including working with a national
nonprofit foundation to identify eligible children and mail the books at no cost to families.
(2)The nonprofit organization to manage the program's daily operations, ensure the
identification and enrollment of eligible children, promote the program, and work with other
entities to avoid duplication, maximize participation, and protect confidentiality of families.
(3)Funds appropriated for the program to be used only to pay the costs associated with book
delivery.
(Adds R.S. 17:407.111)