Pennsylvania House Republican Caucus
02/04/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 02/04/2026 08:23
Watro’s Cursive Bill Heads to Governor
Feb. 04, 2026
HARRISBURG - Legislation that would bring cursive handwriting instruction back to Pennsylvania schools is one step away from becoming law with its approval by the state Senate, according to the bill's sponsor, Rep. Dane Watro (R-Luzerne/Schuylkill).
"Cursive isn't just about handwriting. It's about building connections: to our past, to our learning and to the world around us," Watro said. "By teaching cursive, we're giving students tools that enhance their minds and preserve our shared heritage."
In today's tech-driven world, cursive writing may seem like a relic of the past, but its benefits are far from outdated. House Bill 17 aims to ensure students gain a foundational understanding of cursive, a skill that supports cognitive development and connects us to our history.
Research shows that writing in cursive activates areas of the brain tied to memory, language and critical thinking. It also promotes fine motor skills, improving hand-eye coordination and dexterity. All are benefits that go beyond the classroom.
Beyond its developmental advantages, cursive is a key to unlocking historical documents like the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. Preserving the ability to read and write in cursive ensures future generations can access and understand these foundational texts, strengthening civic engagement and historical literacy.
Cursive remains practical in everyday life as well, from signing checks and legal documents to adding a personal touch to correspondence. It's a timeless skill that continues to hold relevance in both professional and personal settings.
"More than half of U.S. states have enacted laws or established standards requiring cursive instruction in public schools," said Watro. "These states understand cursive provides students another way to learn, express themselves and be better prepared for their future academic, professional and personal lives.
"I'm grateful to the Senate for sending this bill to the governor, who I urge to sign it into law as soon as he can."
Representative Dane Watro
116th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Chris Comisac
717-772-9845
[email protected]
RepWatro.com / Facebook.com/RepWatro
"Cursive isn't just about handwriting. It's about building connections: to our past, to our learning and to the world around us," Watro said. "By teaching cursive, we're giving students tools that enhance their minds and preserve our shared heritage."
In today's tech-driven world, cursive writing may seem like a relic of the past, but its benefits are far from outdated. House Bill 17 aims to ensure students gain a foundational understanding of cursive, a skill that supports cognitive development and connects us to our history.
Research shows that writing in cursive activates areas of the brain tied to memory, language and critical thinking. It also promotes fine motor skills, improving hand-eye coordination and dexterity. All are benefits that go beyond the classroom.
Beyond its developmental advantages, cursive is a key to unlocking historical documents like the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. Preserving the ability to read and write in cursive ensures future generations can access and understand these foundational texts, strengthening civic engagement and historical literacy.
Cursive remains practical in everyday life as well, from signing checks and legal documents to adding a personal touch to correspondence. It's a timeless skill that continues to hold relevance in both professional and personal settings.
"More than half of U.S. states have enacted laws or established standards requiring cursive instruction in public schools," said Watro. "These states understand cursive provides students another way to learn, express themselves and be better prepared for their future academic, professional and personal lives.
"I'm grateful to the Senate for sending this bill to the governor, who I urge to sign it into law as soon as he can."
Representative Dane Watro
116th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Chris Comisac
717-772-9845
[email protected]
RepWatro.com / Facebook.com/RepWatro
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Pennsylvania House Republican Caucus published this content on February 04, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on February 04, 2026 at 14:23 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]