[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 107 (Friday, July 18, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1531]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       REINTRODUCTION OF ACCESS TO BOOKS FOR CHILDREN LEGISLATION

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                        HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, July 18, 2003

  Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, today I introduce the Access to Books for 
Children Act (ABC Act), which would amend the Child Nutrition Act of 
1966. Under the ABC Act, a five dollar voucher would be provided for 
the purchase of educational books for infants and children 
participating in the special supplemental nutrition program for women, 
infants, and children. Research has shown that the effects of childhood 
literacy on the futures of children are extraordinary. Children who are 
exposed to reading before they start school are more likely to graduate 
high school than those who are not.

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