Dyslexia Trends in the United States

Dyslexia Trends in the United States: State Rates, Screening Laws, and Links to Giftedness

Dyslexia is one of the most common learning differences, affecting reading and language processing. While awareness and early identification are improving nationwide, significant state-by-state variations remain in both reported prevalence and the scope of school screening laws. This article explores the states with the highest and lowest identification rates, highlights those leading the way with universal screening policies, and considers how dyslexia often intersects with giftedness.

States with the Highest and Lowest Dyslexia Rates

Reported dyslexia rates differ sharply across states, shaped by variations in screening practices, public awareness, and available resources.

• Highest Rates: Mississippi (22%), Arkansas (18%), Louisiana (17%), and Texas (15%) (Ambitions ABA, 2025).

• Lowest Rates: Alaska (4%), Nevada (5%), Utah (6%), and regions within Texas such as El Paso (3.1%) (Houston Chronicle, 2025).

These numbers largely reflect how systematically states approach early detection. Where universal screenings are mandated, more students are identified and connected with needed interventions.

States Requiring Universal Dyslexia Screening in Schools

Universal dyslexia screening—assessing all students in the early grades—has gained momentum as a best practice. Several states are taking the lead with comprehensive laws:

• California: Mandates universal screening for all K–2 students beginning in the 2025–26 school year (AALRR, 2023).

• Colorado: Senate Bill 25-200 phases in screening for all K–3 students by 2027–28 (Colorado Dept. of Ed, 2025).

• Ohio: Requires Tier 1 universal dyslexia risk screening for all public school students (Ohio Dept. of Ed, 2023).

• Idaho: Mandates detection for K–5 students and specialized teacher training (State of Dyslexia, 2024).

• Texas: Requires universal screening for all PK–2 students beginning in 2025–26 (Texas Ed. Agency, 2025).

• Key Recent Dyslexia Legislation Highlights in 2025

  • Colorado Senate Bill 25-200: Signed into law in May 2025, this bill mandates universal dyslexia screening for all students in kindergarten through third grade by the 2027–28 school year. It expands the existing READ Act to include dyslexia-specific screening requirements and requires parent communication that explicitly includes dyslexia characteristics. Schools must use valid, research-based screeners and provide targeted interventions when risks are identified (Colorado Dept. of Education)(Colorado Reading Update).

  • New York Individuals with Dyslexia Education Act (Assembly Bill 2025-A37): Passed in early 2025, it establishes a statewide plan to identify and support students exhibiting characteristics of dyslexia, emphasizing early intervention and tailored educational approaches (NY State Assembly)(NY Senate Bill S6844).

  • California Dyslexia Screening Mandate: Effective starting the 2025–26 school year, California requires local educational agencies to adopt approved dyslexia screening instruments for all students in kindergarten through second grade. Schools must assess these students annually and provide appropriate training for staff administering screenings (AALRR)(SB 114 Overview).

  • Texas Dyslexia Screening Requirements: The Texas Education Agency mandates universal dyslexia screening for all pre-kindergarten through second-grade students starting in the 2025–26 school year as part of broader literacy initiatives (Texas Ed. Agency).

  • Oklahoma Dyslexia Training Law (Senate Bill 840): Effective July 1, 2025, this law provides micro-credentials to educators completing specialized dyslexia training programs (CALT or CERI). It aims to improve classroom identification and support for students with dyslexia, reducing dependency on costly medical diagnoses by families (Oklahoma Senate).

  • General Trends Across States: More than 40 states have enacted legislation related to dyslexia, with many emphasizing universal dyslexia screening in early elementary grades, use of evidence-based reading interventions, and professional development for educators (Improving Literacy). The legislative focus is on early, consistent identification to improve academic outcomes.

More than 40 states have enacted dyslexia-related screening laws, but only a subset mandate universal screening for every student, making them the most proactive in catching reading differences early (EdSurge, 2023).

Dyslexia and Giftedness: A Dual Exceptionality

Alongside challenges, dyslexia often coexists with unique strengths. Many students with dyslexia demonstrate exceptional problem-solving, creativity, and spatial reasoning abilities. In education, this is sometimes referred to as “twice-exceptional”—students who are both gifted and have a learning difference. Recognizing these strengths shifts the narrative away from limitation and toward empowerment, encouraging educators and families to provide interventions that nurture both support needs and advanced talents.