In a move seemingly against the digital tide, Michigan State Representative Brenda Carter has introduced House Bill 4675, which mandates the Michigan Department of Education to curate a list of cursive writing instructional programs by June 1, 2027. If the programs are ready ahead of the 2026-27 academic year, schools will be "strongly encouraged" to implement the curriculum then. As Carter states, cursive is "a foundational skill that not only enables them to sign their own name, but also gives them access to important historical documents, including many of our nation’s founding texts," as reported by Click on Detroit.
This isn't Carter's first time at bat for cursive writing. Since 2023, she has been working to reintroduce the art of cursive writing into school curriculums. While a previous version of the bill didn't require the development of a model cursive program, the current bill does, suggesting increased momentum. According to a Bridge Detroit interview, Carter is "extremely optimistic this time that this bill will make it through." She consistently cites her late son's cursive letter to personalize the issue and emphasize its importance in connecting with their history.
The State Board of Education has expressed support for the legislation, passing a resolution that points out the cognitive and academic benefits of cursive writing. It's worth noting that as per current Michigan law, notarized signatures do not need to be in cursive, broadening the definition of a signature to include a range of formats. However, advocates fear historical documents could become illegible to those unfamiliar with cursive. The 2020 study cited in the Click on Detroit article, backs up the cognitive benefits of learning cursive at a young age. The Michigan Department of Education, which previously supported similar legislation, is reviewing the bill, intending to work with legislative partners to enhance student access to cursive instruction, as MDE spokesperson Ken Coleman revealed to Bridge Detroit.
While some may consider the push for cursive instruction a nod to traditionalism in an increasingly digital world, Carter's persistence has led to bipartisan support, as underscored in a news release obtained by 6 News. Her dedication conveys a belief that cursive writing possesses value beyond its practical application, embodying a link "to both practical tasks and our shared history and culture."
