The Empowering Young Readers Act of 2026 directs the Secretary of Education to establish a pilot grant program that funds nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations to improve children's access to books and promote early literacy. Eligible organizations can use grants of up to $200,000 over two years for activities such as purchasing and distributing books to children, donating books to public libraries, and hosting literacy programs like book fairs and reading events. The bill authorizes $10 million in funding for fiscal years 2026 and 2027, with the Secretary required to establish the program within 180 days of the bill's enactment and to evaluate its effectiveness based on the number of books distributed and changes in child literacy rates. The legislation ensures grants are awarded based on viewpoint-neutral criteria and requires a progress report to Congress within six months after the final grant period ends.
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