Words Matter Act of 2022

12/29/2022, 12:33 PM

Words Matter Act of 2022

This bill removes outdated terminology in specified statutes by replacing references to mentally retarded and mental retardation with intellectual disability.

Bill 117 hr 8863, also known as the Words Matter Act of 2022, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The main purpose of this bill is to address the use of language in government communications and official documents.

The Words Matter Act of 2022 aims to promote the use of clear, concise, and inclusive language in all government communications. This includes written materials such as reports, press releases, and official statements. The bill emphasizes the importance of using language that is accessible to all Americans, regardless of their background or level of education.

Additionally, the Words Matter Act of 2022 seeks to eliminate the use of biased or discriminatory language in government communications. The bill prohibits the use of language that is offensive, derogatory, or exclusionary towards any group of people. This includes terms that may be considered racist, sexist, or otherwise discriminatory. Overall, the Words Matter Act of 2022 is aimed at promoting transparency, inclusivity, and respect in government communications. By encouraging the use of clear and respectful language, the bill seeks to improve the way that government information is communicated to the public.
Congress
117

Number
HR - 8863

Introduced on
2022-09-15

# Amendments
0

Sponsors
+5

Cosponsors
+5

Variations and Revisions

9/15/2022

Status of Legislation

Bill Introduced
Introduced to House
House to Vote
Introduced to Senate
Senate to Vote

Purpose and Summary

Words Matter Act of 2022

This bill removes outdated terminology in specified statutes by replacing references to mentally retarded and mental retardation with intellectual disability.

Bill 117 hr 8863, also known as the Words Matter Act of 2022, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The main purpose of this bill is to address the use of language in government communications and official documents.

The Words Matter Act of 2022 aims to promote the use of clear, concise, and inclusive language in all government communications. This includes written materials such as reports, press releases, and official statements. The bill emphasizes the importance of using language that is accessible to all Americans, regardless of their background or level of education.

Additionally, the Words Matter Act of 2022 seeks to eliminate the use of biased or discriminatory language in government communications. The bill prohibits the use of language that is offensive, derogatory, or exclusionary towards any group of people. This includes terms that may be considered racist, sexist, or otherwise discriminatory. Overall, the Words Matter Act of 2022 is aimed at promoting transparency, inclusivity, and respect in government communications. By encouraging the use of clear and respectful language, the bill seeks to improve the way that government information is communicated to the public.
Alternative Names
Official Title as IntroducedTo amend Federal law to remove the terms "mentally retarded" and "mental retardation", and for other purposes.

Policy Areas
Health

Comments

Recent Activity

Latest Summary10/20/2022

Words Matter Act of 2022

This bill removes outdated terminology in specified statutes by replacing references to mentally retarded and mental retardation with intellectual disability.


Latest Action11/1/2022
Referred to the Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights, and Civil Liberties.