The state's role in reading instruction improvement in California is illustrated by the Miller-Unruh Reading Act of 1965 which aims to prevent and correct reading disabilities at the elementary school level and to provide funds and services for special reading instruction. It requires that the Stanford Reading Test be given in May each year to children in the primary grades in all school districts of California. Funds and services should be awarded on the basis of greatest need and least financial ability. Reading specialists must be nominated and must pass an examination on reading instruction and theories for certification. The different school systems, the initiation of crash programs, the adoption of phonics-oriented textbooks, statewide interest in reading instruction, the improvement and growth of college reading courses, the improvement of reading instruction, awareness of individual differences and needs, and the availability of funds to needy schools are discussed in relation to the act. (NS)