HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 41

(By Delegates Walters, Armstead, Ashley, Azinger, Barill, Border, D. Campbell, T. Campbell, Canterbury, Carmichael, Cowles, Ellem, Ellington, Evans, Guthrie, Howell, Ireland, Kump, Longstreth, Manchin, Marshall, Michael, Moore, Nelson, Pasdon, Paxton, Perdue, Pethtel, D. Poling, Poore, Romine, Rowan, Skaff, Smith, Storch, Sumner, White and Williams)

Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance study the feasibility and cost effectiveness of replacing printed school textbooks with downloaded versions on an electronic device such as a e-reader, tablet or smart phone.

    Whereas, It is important to give school districts high quality, cost-effective options to consider when choosing textbooks for the classroom not only in these difficult economic times but in years to come; and

    Whereas, Replacing printed school textbooks with downloaded versions is an important step toward embracing a more interactive learning environment that leverages technology to meet the changing academic needs of students; and

    Whereas, Digital textbooks not only provide better information and are good for students’ achievement, but also for schools’ bottom lines by reducing costs; and

    Whereas, Printed school textbooks are soon out-of-date particularly in the fields of science and history while digital textbooks keep information new and fresh and are easily updated; and

    Whereas, Going digital eliminates the need for students to “lug” around antiquated, heavy and expensive textbooks; therefore, be it

    Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:

    That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is hereby requested to study the feasibility and cost effectiveness of replacing printed school textbooks with downloaded versions on an electronic device such as an e-reader, tablet or smart phone; and, be it

    Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the Legislature, on the first day of the regular session, 2012, on its findings, conclusions and recommendations, together with drafts of legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations; and, be it

    Further Resolved, That the expense necessary to conduct this study, to prepare a report and to draft necessary legislation be paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.