New handwriting law requires cursive writing — what Americans need to know

Cursive writing is making a formal comeback in Pennsylvania classrooms. A new law signed this week requires public schools across the state to teach students how to write in cursive, reviving a skill many believed was fading away.

Supporters say the move is about more than neat signatures; it’s about brain development, history, and communication.

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What does the new cursive law require?

House Bill 17 officially amends the Public School Code of 1949, making cursive handwriting instruction mandatory in Pennsylvania schools, as per a report by The US Sun.

The legislation was backed by 15 Republicans and three Democrats before being signed into law by Governor Josh Shapiro. Sharing the moment online, Shapiro said he used his “best cursive” when signing the bill.

“I’m definitely rusty, but I think my penmanship was okay!” he wrote on Facebook.

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Why are lawmakers pushing for cursive?

State Rep. Dane Watro, who sponsored the bill, pointed to research supporting the educational value of cursive writing.

He referred to studies showing that writing in cursive activates areas of the brain linked to memory, language and critical thinking. Advocates also argue that cursive helps build fine motor skills while improving coordination and dexterity.

Watro noted that Pennsylvania is not alone in the shift. “More than half of U.S. states already require cursive instruction in public schools, as per a report by The US Sun.

“They recognize that cursive gives students another way to learn, express themselves and prepare for success academically, professionally and personally.”


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Why does cursive writing still matter today?

Supporters also emphasize the historical importance of cursive. Foundational American documents, including the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution, were written in cursive script. Teaching the skill, they argue, helps preserve a connection to the nation’s past, as per a report by The US Sun.

With this new law in place, Pennsylvania joins a growing list of states reintroducing traditional handwriting into modern classrooms.

FAQs

Will all Pennsylvania schools have to teach cursive?
Yes. The law requires cursive instruction in public schools under the amended Public School Code of 1949.

Why do supporters say cursive is important?
They cite studies linking cursive writing to improved memory, language skills, critical thinking, and fine motor development.