The "Words Matter for the District of Columbia Courts Act" updates terminology in the D.C. Official Code to replace outdated references to individuals with intellectual disabilities with more respectful and accurate language.
Eleanor Norton
Representative
DC
The "Words Matter for the District of Columbia Courts Act" amends the District of Columbia Official Code, modernizing language related to individuals with intellectual disabilities. Specifically, it replaces outdated terms like "substantially retarded persons" and "at least moderately mentally retarded" with the more respectful and accurate term "persons with moderate intellectual disabilities" in legal references. This change affects the jurisdiction of the U.S. District Court, the Superior Court, and the Family Court within the District of Columbia.
DC Code Update: "Words Matter Act" Replaces Outdated Terms for Intellectual Disabilities
The "Words Matter for the District of Columbia Courts Act" updates the DC Official Code to swap out some seriously outdated language. Specifically, it replaces terms like "substantially retarded persons" and "at least moderately mentally retarded" with "persons with moderate intellectual disabilities." This change affects references throughout the code, including those related to the jurisdiction of the US District Court, the Superior Court, and the Family Court (SEC. 2).
Making Language Matter
This bill is all about bringing the legal language in line with how we talk about intellectual disabilities today. It's not changing what the courts do, just how they refer to people. For example, if a legal document previously mentioned the court's role in cases involving someone "at least moderately mentally retarded," it will now say "persons with moderate intellectual disabilities." This might seem like a small thing, but words matter, especially in legal settings. Using respectful and accurate language can help reduce stigma and ensure everyone is treated with dignity.
Real-World Ripple Effects
While this bill focuses on terminology, the impacts are real. Think about it like this: if you're a family member navigating the court system on behalf of a loved one with an intellectual disability, seeing outdated and offensive terms in official documents can be hurtful and alienating. This change signals a move towards a more inclusive and respectful legal environment. It's a step towards making sure the language of the law reflects the values of the community.
The Big Picture
This update fits into a broader effort to modernize laws and regulations. It acknowledges that our understanding of intellectual disabilities has evolved, and the language we use should evolve, too. The bill doesn't face any obvious implementation challenges, as it's a straightforward terminology swap. It also aligns with existing laws promoting the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities. Long-term, it contributes to a more inclusive and respectful legal system in DC.