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Massachusetts OKs measure to rename DMR, remove stigma

July 9th, 2008

From the Amesbury [Massachusetts] News and the Newburyport [Massachusetts] Daily News:

The title of the Massachusetts Department of Mental Retardation will be changed through a provision of the state budget passed by the legislature. The new name will be the Department of Developmental Services.

State Rep. Michael A. Costello, D-Newburyport, left, a longtime proponent of the change, praised the move as an empowering action for one of the state’s most vulnerable populations. Costello has filed legislation to change the name of DMR during each of the last three legislative sessions.

… “The word retardation is used as a commonplace pejorative throughout society, and it’s really common sense that the word should not be associated with one of our state agencies,” Costello said. “The change removes a harmful stigma and should empower those whom the agency serves.”

Costello said he is hopeful that Gov. Deval Patrick would sign the measure.

(Photo from www.mass.gov)

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More than 50 million people in the United States have disabilities, a number that is growing rapidly as the population ages. Experts say disability will soon affect the lives of most Americans. This blog attempts to explore what we know about disability, and to chronicle the efforts of people who are seeking new ways to address familiar challenges.

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