Governor Vetoes Plan To Require Cursive Writing In Schools

SPRINGFIELD, IL — Gov. Bruce Rauner rejected a law forcing all Illinois elementary schools to teach at least one unit cursive writing. The measure, House Bill 2977, was among several bills Rauner vetoed last Friday. In the General Assembly, the bill had passed through the Senate with a veto-proof majority of 41-15 but was approved more narrowly by the House, which voted 62-38 in favor of the proposal in April.

"This legislation constitutes yet another unfunded mandate for school districts that will not protect the health or safety of Illinois students," Rauner wrote in his veto message.

"If the General Assembly believes that cursive writing instruction should be required in elementary schools because it will improve student outcomes, it should be included in the Illinois State Learning Standards and funded accordingly," he said.

Supporters of the proposal argued cursive is an important skill even for students in the digital age, allowing them to read historical texts, sign documents more security and write faster.

Under the vetoed legislation, public elementary schools would have to teach at least one unit of cursive writing before fifth grade, which could be incorporated into any part of the existing curriculum.

» Related: Cursive Writing Required In Illinois Schools Under House Bill

The bills sponsor in the Senate, Kimberly Lightford (D-Maywood) said studends skill need to develop the ability to write and read in cursive, even with technological advances emphasizing typing more than handwriting.

"The governor’s veto threatens the ability of students to learn a fundamental skill that they will need going through life," Lightford said. "Practical benefits, including writing a check, developing a motor skill and even interpreting historical documents like our Constitution, all require using and understanding cursive writing."

Republican representatives said there was more important things to worry about.

"If the parents want cursive writing, they should tell their district," said Rep. Charlie Meier (D-Okawville), according to the Belleville News-Democrat.

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