Our View of the Legislature: Removing Handicap

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The 2023 legislative session begins today!

If you would like to view the House session, go to this link, and click on “now playing.” If you would like to watch the Senate session, go to this link.

The disAbility Law Center of Virginia is available to educate policymakers about the potential impact of legislative proposals during this 2023 session. Our mission is to advance independence, choice and self-determination; protect legal, human and civil rights; and eliminate abuse, neglect, and discrimination of people with disabilities through zealous and uncompromising legal advocacy and representation.

This year, the legislature will consider a proposal to update the Virginia Code by replacing the words “handicap” and “handicapped” with alternative terms as appropriate in context, such as “disability” and “impairment.” The bill is a recommendation of the Virginia Disability Commission.  HB 1450 is being brought by Delegate Bobby Orrock, chair of the House Committee on Health, Welfare, and Institutions. The Senate equivalent, SB 798, is offered by Senator Hashmi.

Please let us know of any proposed constitutional amendments, legislative proposals, or budget issues that you think we should be following. Contact us at info@dlcv.org or by calling 1-800-552-3962 or 804-225-2042.