Relating to the terminology used in statute to refer to intellectual disability and certain references to abolished health and human services agencies.
Impact
The implementation of HB 446 is expected to have a significant impact on how statutes are interpreted and enforced, particularly concerning individuals with intellectual disabilities. By removing outdated terminology, the bill not only aims to reduce stigma associated with disabilities but also to ensure that state laws align with contemporary practices and perceptions. This change is likely to influence how state agencies interact with individuals with intellectual disabilities and could result in broader calls for inclusivity across various sectors of public policy and service delivery.
Summary
House Bill 446 aims to modernize and refine the terminology used within Texas statutes regarding individuals with intellectual disabilities. Specifically, the bill replaces the outdated and derogatory term 'mental retardation' with 'intellectual disability' throughout Texas legislation. The intent is to remove language that many consider offensive and to reflect current understanding and respect for individuals with intellectual disabilities. This change aligns with broader societal views advocating for the dignity and proper representation of all individuals, especially in legal contexts.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 446 is largely positive, with support coming from various advocacy groups, individuals, and legislators who emphasize the importance of using respectful language. Testimonies presented during discussions highlight the belief that language carries power, and changing these terms is a crucial step towards acknowledging the dignity of individuals with intellectual disabilities. While there may be some individuals or entities resistant to changes in legal language, overall, the momentum appears to support the bill’s passage and its objectives.
Contention
Notable points of contention include discussions about the pace of change in language use within legal statutes and the necessity of such legislation. Some stakeholders argue that legislative measures may not be the most effective way to change societal views about disabilities, suggesting that education and community awareness may need to accompany legal reforms. However, the consensus among most proponents is that legislative action like HB 446 provides a foundational step in fostering respect and equality for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Civil Practice And Remedies Code
Chapter 1. General Provisions
Section: New Section
Chapter 74. Medical Liability
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Code Of Criminal Procedure
Chapter 46. Miscellaneous Provisions Relating To Mental Illness And Intellectual Disability
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Government Code
Chapter 125. Mental Health Court Programs
Section: 002
Chapter 403. Comptroller Of Public Accounts
Section: 252
Chapter 411. Department Of Public Safety Of The State Of Texas
Section: 052
Chapter 511. Commission On Jail Standards
Section: New Section
Chapter 501. Inmate Welfare
Section: New Section
Chapter 508. Parole And Mandatory Supervision
Section: 223
Chapter 659. Compensation
Section: 016
Section: 015
Chapter 1401. Bonds For Certain Criminal Justice, Mental Health, Or Intellectual Disability Facilities
Section: New Section
Health And Safety Code
Chapter 33. Phenylketonuria, Other Heritable Diseases, Hypothyroidism, And Certain Other Disorders
Section: New Section
Chapter 531. Provisions Generally Applicable To Mental Health And Intellectual Disability Services
Section: 0021
Section: 0021
Section: 0021
Chapter 613. Kidney Donation By Ward With Intellectual Disability
Section: 001
Section: 001
Section: New Section
Chapter 431. Texas Food, Drug, And Cosmetic Act
Section: 4031
Section: 4031
Human Resources Code
Chapter 244. Care And Treatment Of Children
Section: New Section
Insurance Code
Chapter 1359. Formulas For Individuals With Phenylketonuria Or Other Heritable Diseases
Section: 001
Section: 001
Section: 001
Chapter 1355. Benefits For Certain Mental Disorders
Section: 056
Chapter 1305. Workers' Compensation Health Care Networks
Identical
Relating to the terminology used in statute to refer to intellectual disability and certain references to abolished health and human services agencies.
Relating to the terminology used in statute to refer to intellectual disability and certain references to abolished health and human services agencies.
Relating to updating references to certain former health services state agencies and certain terms used to describe persons with intellectual or developmental disabilities in the Education Code.
Relating to updating references to certain former health services state agencies and certain terms used to describe persons with intellectual or developmental disabilities in the Education Code.
Relating to the reporting of mental health and intellectual disability information with respect to certain children for purposes of a federal firearm background check.
Relating to the terminology used in statute to refer to intellectual disability and certain references to abolished health and human services agencies.
An Act Concerning Applications For Guardianship Of An Adult With Intellectual Disability And Certain Statutory Changes Related To Intellectual Disability.
An Act Concerning Revisions To Statutes Relating To The Department Of Developmental Services Including The Utilization Of Respectful Language When Referring To Persons With Intellectual Disability.