Summary
Changes federal laws to replace the words 'mentally retarded' and 'mental retardation' with 'intellectual disability' and 'individuals with intellectual disabilities'.
What problem does this solve?
Many federal laws use outdated and offensive terms to describe people with intellectual disabilities. This bill updates these laws by replacing the old language with more respectful and modern terms.
Who does this affect?
- Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
- Federal government agencies
- Disability rights advocates
What does this bill do?
Reference
Text:
Section:
Sec. 2
Header:
Removal of 'mentally retarded' and 'mental retardation' from federal law
Replaces outdated terms in all federal laws
Changes the terms 'mentally retarded' and 'mental retardation' to 'intellectual disability' or 'individuals with intellectual disabilities' across numerous federal statutes.
Ensures no change to rights or benefits
Specifies that changing the words does not change anyone's eligibility for programs, their legal rights, or the original meaning of the laws.
Updates language for death penalty sentences
Changes the term 'is mentally retarded' to 'has an intellectual disability' when deciding if a person can receive a death sentence.
Modernizes terms in the Social Security Act
Replaces 'intermediate care facility for the mentally retarded' with 'intermediate care facility for individuals with intellectual disabilities' throughout the act.
Reference
Text:
Section:
Sec. 2(b)
Header:
Mortgage insurance for nursing homes, intermediate care facilities, and board and care homes
Changes terms in the National Housing Act
Replaces 'the mentally retarded or developmentally disabled' with 'individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities' in rules for mortgage insurance.
Guides updates to federal rules
Requires federal agencies to update their regulations to reflect the new language and to note that the new terms replace the old ones.
What is the real world impact?
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Promotes respectful and modern language in federal laws
Updates federal laws to use person-first and clinically appropriate language. This reflects a modern understanding of intellectual disabilities and shows respect for individuals.
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Does not change the meaning of the laws
Makes clear that changing the words does not alter anyone's eligibility for programs, their rights, or their responsibilities under the law. Some may see this as a symbolic change without practical impact.
When does this start?
This bill would take effect as soon as it is signed into law.