State Representative Steve Xiarhos says he was proud to support legislation to remove outdated and offensive language describing individuals with disabilities.
The House bill replaces terms like "handicapped persons" and "mentally retarded" with respectful and modern language like persons with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
The measure passed unanimously by a vote of 152 to 0.
The Fifth Barnstable District lawmaker says words matter and the legislation ensures that laws reflect the dignity, respect, and compassion that every person in the Commonwealth deserves.
(Photo by JOSEPH PREZIOSO/AFP via Getty Images)
Photo: JOSEPH PREZIOSO / AFP / Getty Images