What is the current status of HR 3420?

HR 3420 is currently: Introduced.

Who sponsored HR 3420?

HR 3420 was sponsored by Pete Sessions (R), Rep.

Replaces Outdated Terms for Disabilities

IntroducedMay 15, 2025

Introduced5 months ago

Intro

House

Senate

Pres

Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.

HealthAdministrative law and regulatory proceduresBirth defectsChild healthContracts and agencyCriminal procedure and sentencingDisability and paralysisElementary and secondary educationEmployment and training programsFood assistance and reliefHealth care coverage and accessHealth personnelIndian social and development programsIntergovernmental relationsLong-term, rehabilitative, and terminal careMedicaidMedicareMental healthNursingNutrition and diet

Why This Matters

This bill removes outdated and offensive terms related to disabilities from federal laws and replaces them with more appropriate language.

If you or a loved one has an intellectual disability, this bill ensures that federal laws use respectful language starting in 2025.

Who this affects

Individuals with intellectual disabilities · Individuals with developmental disabilities · Families

What changes is this bill making?

1This bill updates federal laws to use more respectful language regarding disabilities.
2It changes terms like 'mentally retarded' to 'intellectual disability' in various legal contexts.
3The bill affects laws related to healthcare, housing, and criminal justice.
4It aims to reduce stigma and promote dignity for individuals with disabilities.
5The changes will apply to multiple federal programs and services.

Read the detailed summary

Words Matter Act of 2025This bill removes outdated terminology in specified statutes by replacing references to mentally retarded and mental retardation with intellectual disability.

Read full document

Replaces Outdated Terms for Disabilities

IntroducedMay 15, 2025

Introduced5 months ago

Intro

House

Senate

Pres

Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by Voice Vote.

Why This Matters

This bill removes outdated and offensive terms related to disabilities from federal laws and replaces them with more appropriate language.

If you or a loved one has an intellectual disability, this bill ensures that federal laws use respectful language starting in 2025.

Who this affects

Individuals with intellectual disabilities · Individuals with developmental disabilities · Families

What changes is this bill making?

1This bill updates federal laws to use more respectful language regarding disabilities.
2It changes terms like 'mentally retarded' to 'intellectual disability' in various legal contexts.
3The bill affects laws related to healthcare, housing, and criminal justice.
4It aims to reduce stigma and promote dignity for individuals with disabilities.
5The changes will apply to multiple federal programs and services.

Read the detailed summary

Words Matter Act of 2025This bill removes outdated terminology in specified statutes by replacing references to mentally retarded and mental retardation with intellectual disability.

Read full document