Bill Text: GA SR1324 | 2009-2010 | Regular Session | Enrolled
Bill Title: Developmental Disabilities; recognize the harmful/unintended consequences of the use of the term "mental retardation"
Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Republican 4-0)
Status: (Passed) 2010-03-24 - Senate Read and Adopted [SR1324 Detail]
Download: Georgia-2009-SR1324-Enrolled.html
10 LC
94 2821
Senate
Resolution 1324
By:
Senators Grant of the 25th, Unterman of the 45th, Goggans of the 7th and Thomas
of the 54th
A
RESOLUTION
Recognizing
the harmful and unintended consequences of the use of the term "mental
retardation" and resolving to refrain from the use of this term in future speech
and legislation; and for other purposes.
WHEREAS,
the term "mental retardation," while having a clinical meaning to professionals
in the medical and educational fields, has devolved into an insulting,
degrading, and even hateful term for individuals with developmental disabilities
and their families; and
WHEREAS,
hurtful classifications such as moron, imbecile, and retard are used in casual
speech and have no place in today's society; and
WHEREAS,
it is estimated that one in ten families are affected by developmental
disabilities in the United States; and
WHEREAS,
studies show that the language used to describe or classify a person often
directly correlates to that individual's treatment and perception by others in
daily life; and
WHEREAS,
people with developmental disabilities can learn, hold jobs, contribute to their
households and society, and lead productive and fulfilled lives;
and
WHEREAS,
individuals with developmental disabilities are valued friends, loved family
members, and productive members of their communities; and
WHEREAS,
people with developmental disabilities are entitled to the dignity and respect
due to all of Georgia's citizens.
NOW,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body recognize
the hurtful and unintended consequences of the use of the term and
classification "mental retardation" and resolve to replace this term with the
term "developmental disabilities" in future speech and legislation.
BE
IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed
to transmit appropriate copies of this resolution to members of the public and
the press.
