Texas House Bill HB1481

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 2/17/11
• Out of House Committee: 3/14/11
• Voted on by House: 3/30/11
• Refer: 3/2/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/13/11
• Report Pass: 3/8/11
• Voted on by Senate: 5/19/11
• Engrossed: 3/30/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 4/13/11
• Report Pass: 5/13/11
• Enrolled: 5/23/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to the use of person first respectful language in reference to individuals with disabilities.

Impact

The bill seeks to alter existing state law by introducing an explicit framework for language use concerning individuals with disabilities within legislative documents and broader governmental communication. This means that terms used by the Texas Legislative Council and various state agencies must prioritize respectful phrasing, which places individuals before their disabilities. Such reform is expected to influence public perception and foster an environment that acknowledges the dignity of individuals with disabilities.

Summary

House Bill 1481 focuses on the use of person first respectful language in reference to individuals with disabilities. The bill aims to foster a more inclusive societal attitude towards individuals with disabilities by mandating legislative and governmental use of preferred terminology. Through this initiative, terms that may be considered demeaning or offensive, such as 'disabled' and 'mentally retarded', are prohibited in new statutes and resolutions, with specified alternatives proposed to replace these outdated terms. The bill also involves amendments to existing laws to reflect this more respectful nomenclature.

Contention

While the intent of the bill is largely seen as positive in promoting respect and dignity, some stakeholders may express concerns regarding the practical implications of enforcing terminology changes across existing laws and multiple agencies. Critics may potentially raise issues regarding the cost and administrative burden of revising established statutes or include opinions on whether this initiative effectively addresses more pressing concerns facing individuals with disabilities. Overall, the bill's language reform is debated not only for its symbolic significance but also for its practical utility in improving the lives of persons with disabilities.