Cochran Bill Would Update State Law to Remove Outdated Terms for People with Disabilities

DES PLAINES, Ill. — State Rep. Justin Cochran, D-Des Plaines, has filed a bill that would update the terminology in existing laws that is used to describe persons with disabilities, replacing outdated terms that are no longer in use and bringing Illinois’ language closer to that which is used in the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

“The words we use matter, and this is especially true when we use them in connection with people who are members of vulnerable groups, such as people with disabilities,” Cochran said. “That’s why I’m partnering with experts and advocates to ensure that the laws of our state are keeping up with evolving standards for referring to our neighbors and fellow citizens in a manner that is respectful and in keeping with their inherent dignity.”

Cochran’s House Bill 4284 would make technical changes to a wide variety of acts and statutes, changing all occurrences of, for example, “disabled person” to “person with a disability,” and “handicapped” to “has a disability.” The bill was inspired by Massachusetts’ Senate Bill 2563 which updated that state’s laws in a similar way. Cochran is working with advocates including the Special Olympics and the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities. The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) is also providing constructive feedback.

“Language shapes how people are seen and treated, and person-first terminology reinforces that individuals are not defined by a disability,” said Pete Beale-DelVecchio, President and CEO of Special Olympics Illinois. “Inclusion begins with how we speak about one another and this legislation reflects the dignity of individuals with disabilities and reinforces the inclusive values we strive for across Illinois.”

“A measure like this might seem like a small thing but, particularly in times like these, when basic decency often seems to be in short supply, it’s especially important for good people to do everything we can to stem the tide and move the world in a better direction, even if the going is slow,” Cochran said. “That’s why I don’t think this is a small thing, in reality. Big problems grow from small roots, and when we start with respect, we start with a strong foundation to build in a better direction.”