H.R. 1022: Words Matter for the District of Columbia Courts Act

This bill, known as the "Words Matter for the District of Columbia Courts Act," proposes to update certain terminology in the District of Columbia's official legal code regarding individuals with intellectual disabilities. The primary focus of the bill is to replace outdated and potentially offensive language with more appropriate and respectful terminology.

Key Provisions

• Change in Terminology: The bill specifically aims to amend the language found in multiple sections of the District of Columbia Official Code. It proposes the following changes:
  • In the jurisdiction of the United States District Court, the phrase “substantially retarded persons” will be replaced with “persons with moderate intellectual disabilities”.
  • In the jurisdiction of the Superior Court, the same change will be made, replacing the term “substantially retarded persons” with “persons with moderate intellectual disabilities”.
  • In the jurisdiction of the Family Court, the phrase “the at least moderately mentally retarded” will also be updated to “persons with moderate intellectual disabilities”.

The intended effect of this bill is to modernize terminology and promote a more respectful approach to referring to individuals with varying levels of intellectual disabilities within the legal framework of the District of Columbia.

Context and Purpose

The bill recognizes the importance of language and its impact on public perception and treatment of individuals with intellectual disabilities. By updating legal language, the bill aims to reflect current understanding and best practices related to intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Implementation

If passed, the bill will necessitate updates to legal documents and references within the District of Columbia's judicial system to ensure compliance with the new terminology. This could involve training for court personnel and updates to public-facing materials that utilize these terms.

Relevant Companies

None found.