Schmitt Bill to Improve Understanding of American History, Civics

May 5, 2025

HARRISBURG – To ensure students have a better understanding of American history, government and civics, Rep. Lou Schmitt (R-Blair) introduced legislation that would require them to pass the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Test once during their middle or high school careers.

“Unfortunately, too many adults don’t have a good understanding of civics, our system of government or even rights afforded to us through the United States Constitution,” Schmitt said. “My bill seeks to improve the comprehension of basic civics so that students have a better appreciation and understanding of what it means to be an American citizen and the responsibilities that come with it.”

Fewer than 50% of Americans surveyed can identify the majority of rights safeguarded by the First Amendment, and less than two-thirds can accurately name the three branches of government, according to the latest Annenberg Constitution Day civics survey.

Schmitt’s House Bill 1373 would require school districts to use the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Test as an assessment test. Students would have to reach a passing mark of at least 60%, the same threshold that individuals attempting to become U.S. citizens must achieve, to graduate.

“My bill brings uniformity to assessment in schools across the state, while also continuing to give schools the ability to administer their own assessment tests,” Schmitt said.

The legislation is expected to be referred to the House Education Committee for consideration.

Representative Lou Schmitt
79th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Greg Gross
717.260.6374
ggross@pahousegop.com
RepLouSchmitt.com / Facebook.com/RepSchmitt