COLUMBUS – A central Ohio lawmaker wants to continue eliminating derogatory terms like “idiot” and “lunatics” from the state’s legal code.
Rep. Dontavius Jarrells (D-Columbus) says he will be introducing legislation removing derogatory language in the Ohio Revised Code, continuing efforts started by the General Assembly in 2016, when it voted to replace the phrase “mentally retarded person.”
Currently, Jarrells says the code still includes language such as “idiot,” “lunatics, “deaf and dumb,” “mental defective,” “crippled child/children,” “derangement,” and “handicapped.”
“These antiquated terms are rooted in historical trauma, resulting in unnecessary harm for people with disabilities, their families, and advocacy organizations, All Ohioans deserve to be treated with kindness, dignity, and respect. This legislation ensures the Ohio Revised Code reflects those values,” Jarrells said.
The legislation will replace terms related to people with disabilities and update laws governing assistance dogs, braille teacher standards, the Children with Medical Handicaps Program, and accessible parking spaces, Jarrells said.