New York Governor Kathy Hochul is marking the 32nd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act by signing legislation to further uphold and strengthen the rights of New Yorkers.
The package aims to expand rights for people with disabilities and combat stigma with a public awareness campaign.
Hochul signed legislation that would replace the term “Mentally Retarded” or variations of it with the term “Developmentally Disabled” or “Individuals with a Developmental Disability.”
She says in a statement the bills honor the ADA’s legacy by expanding rights and making the State “inclusive, integrated and accessible for all.”
State Senator and Chairman of the Disabilities Committee John Mannion said in a release these new laws will make the state more inclusive and ensure those in need of services will have a voice in their care and life decisions.
You can read the Governor’s proclamation here.
