By Bob Katzen

Senate 40-0, approved and sent to the House a bill that would modernize and remove archaic language in state laws to reflect the evolution of terminology relating to persons with disabilities.

Changes include replacing “handicapped persons” with “persons with disabilities,” replacing “the mentally retarded” with “persons with an intellectual disability,” replacing “retarded children” with “children with an intellectual disability” and replacing “disabled American veterans” with “American veterans with disabilities.”

“Words are important,” said Sen. Pat Jehlen (D-Somerville), chief sponsor of the bill. “Language changes. We should use language that respects the people it refers to and listen to them. Fifteen years ago, a friend told Rep. Denise Provost and me how disrespected she felt being called ‘handicapped.’ We filed a bill to remove ten sections of the general laws that used that word. Over the years, we have found nearly 400 sections with offensive words, including the r-word.”

Melissa Reilly, an advocate for people with disabilities and former policy advisor to Sen. Jamie Eldridge (D-Marlborough), said the bill is really important because all people with disabilities should be treated well and respected by others and not mocked or judged or bullied by others for their disabilities. “We are all unique and deserve respect, we do not want to be known as the ‘r-word.’” said Reilly.

Maura Sullivan, CEO of the Arc of Massachusetts, said the bill has been a long-time priority for The Arc and its community. “Today’s vote sends a clear message in an important moment—such language has no place in our laws or in our society,” said Sullivan. “At this moment when disability rights are being threatened, we must show up every day to reaffirm our commitment to uplifting and valuing this community. This bill does just that.”

(A “Yes” vote is for the bill.)

Sen. Patricia Jehlen Yes