Disabilities, persons with; modernize terminology used to refer to.
If enacted, Bill HB98 will lead to the amendment of several sections of the Mississippi Code, which currently utilize outdated terminology regarding individuals with disabilities. By modernizing and standardizing the language used in state laws, the bill aims to positively influence the public perception of disabilities and enhance the dignity of individuals affected. This change is anticipated to have implications throughout various state agencies and in legal contexts where disability terminology is utilized, reinforcing a more humane approach to legislation concerning individuals with disabilities.
House Bill 98 is a legislative proposal aimed at updating the terminology used to refer to individuals with disabilities in the Mississippi Code of 1972. The bill seeks to require legislative drafting offices and state agencies to adopt more respectful and person-first language when preparing legislation and rules. It emphasizes the importance of language and how it reflects societal attitudes towards individuals with disabilities. The intention is to promote inclusion and equal rights by moving away from demeaning terms and establishing preferred language that recognizes the humanity of individuals with disabilities.
While the bill is designed to foster inclusivity, it may face challenges related to differing opinions on the appropriateness and implications of changing established language in legal contexts. Some stakeholders might argue for maintaining traditional terms for consistency, while advocates for disability rights propose that language plays a crucial role in shaping perceptions and experiences of those with disabilities. Therefore, the effectiveness and acceptance of HB98 may depend on active engagement with various community groups and ongoing dialogue about the implications of language in legislation.