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District of Columbia Courts: Respectful Language for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities.

This act changes how courts in the District of Columbia refer to individuals with intellectual disabilities. Instead of outdated and offensive terms, court documents will now use more appropriate language. This aims to enhance respect and dignity for individuals with moderate intellectual disabilities within the legal system.
Key points
The act replaces outdated and offensive terms for individuals with intellectual disabilities in the District of Columbia Code.
In court documents, including the U.S. District Court, Superior Court, and Family Court, the term "persons with moderate intellectual disabilities" will replace previous descriptions.
The change promotes more respectful and precise language within the legal system, impacting citizens' dignity.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Introduced
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 119_HR_1022
Sponsor: Del. Norton, Eleanor Holmes [D-DC-At Large]
Process start date: 2025-02-05
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Words Matter for the District of Columbia Courts Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 119_HR_1022.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2025-02-05.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • The act replaces outdated and offensive terms for individuals with intellectual disabilities in the District of Columbia Code.
  • In court documents, including the U.S. District Court, Superior Court, and Family Court, the term "persons with moderate intellectual disabilities" will replace previous descriptions.
  • The change promotes more respectful and precise language within the legal system, impacting citizens' dignity.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Introduced.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Del. Norton, Eleanor Holmes [D-DC-At Large].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-22.

CATEGORIES

Courts and Law