WASHINGTON (KXXV) — U.S. Rep. Pete Sessions (R-Texas) has introduced the Words Matter Act, a bipartisan bill that would eliminate outdated and offensive terminology from federal law and replace it with respectful, person-first language for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Sessions, whose son has Down syndrome, co-authored the bill alongside Reps. Mark Pocan (D-Wis.), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), and Richard Hudson (R-N.C.). The legislation would revise more than two dozen instances of the term “mentally retarded” in the U.S. Code, updating them to reflect modern standards of dignity and respect.
“As the proud father of a young man with Down syndrome, I know firsthand that words matter. My son Alex is an Eagle Scout, a loving uncle, and an accomplished young man whose abilities far exceed his disabilities. This legislation ensures that federal law recognizes people like Alex with the God-given dignity they deserve,” Congressman Sessions said.
The measure is backed by leading disability advocacy organizations, including the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS), the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD), and the Global Down Syndrome Foundation.
The bill awaits further action in the House and reflects a growing movement to ensure federal policy aligns with inclusive language and values.
