Requesting The Attorney General To Conduct A Comprehensive Review Of The Hawaii Revised Statutes To Identify Provisions In Which The Term "impaired" Or A Similar Term Is Used To Describe A Person With A Disability And To Suggest Disability-inclusive Appropriate Amendments.
Impact
If enacted, HCR9 would lead to meaningful changes in the language used within state statutes, promoting terminology that reflects respect and dignity for individuals with disabilities. The resolution specifically urges the Attorney General to suggest new language alternatives that replace outdated terms like 'hearing impaired' and 'vision impaired' with more appropriate descriptors such as 'deaf or hard of hearing' and 'low vision'. This modernization aims to align Hawaii's laws with contemporary understanding and advocacy for disability inclusion.
Summary
HCR9, a Concurrent Resolution from the Hawaii House of Representatives, calls for the Attorney General to undertake a thorough review of the Hawaii Revised Statutes. The aim of this review is to identify instances where the term 'impaired' or similar language is utilized to describe individuals with disabilities. This initiative recognizes that certain terms can perpetuate stigmas and do not align with modern, person-first language standards that emphasize the dignity of people with disabilities. Such a shift is crucial for fostering a more inclusive society that respects all individuals.
Contention
There is potential for debate surrounding HCR9, particularly with respect to the practical implications of changing established legal terminology. While advocates for people with disabilities support the bill's intent to eliminate pejorative language, some lawmakers may question the necessity or logistical challenges of rewording existing statutes. Furthermore, ensuring that legislative alterations do not conflict with the Americans with Disabilities Act presents an important consideration as the bill moves forward.
Recommendations
The resolution requests that the Attorney General submit a report detailing findings and recommendations, including any proposed legislation, to the legislature by a specified deadline. This structured approach is intended to facilitate a thorough reassessment of how individuals with disabilities are represented in Hawaii state law, fostering a legal environment that is more sensitive to the nuances of disability.
Same As
Requesting The Attorney General To Conduct A Comprehensive Review Of The Hawaii Revised Statutes To Identify Provisions In Which The Term "impaired" Or A Similar Term Is Used To Describe A Person With A Disability And To Suggest Disability-inclusive Appropriate Amendments.
Same As
Requesting The Attorney General To Conduct A Comprehensive Review Of The Hawaii Revised Statutes To Identify Provisions In Which The Term "impaired" Or A Similar Term Is Used To Describe A Person With A Disability And To Suggest Disability-inclusive Appropriate Amendments.
Requesting The Hawaii State Lgbtq+ Commission And Hawaii State Commission On The Status Of Women To Collaborate And Conduct A Comprehensive Review Of The Hawaii Revised Statutes And Recommend Amendments To Incorporate Gender-neutral Terminology.
Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Comprehensive Review Of The Hawaii Revised Statutes And Recommend Amendments To Incorporate Gender-neutral Terminology.
Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Comprehensive Review Of The Hawaii Revised Statutes And Recommend Amendments To Incorporate Gender-neutral Terminology.
Requesting The Hawaii State Lgbtq+ Commission And Hawaii State Commission On The Status Of Women To Collaborate And Conduct A Comprehensive Review Of The Hawaii Revised Statutes And Recommend Amendments To Incorporate Gender-neutral Terminology.
Requesting The Auditor To Conduct An Audit Of The Moneys Appropriated To The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands Pursuant To Act 279, Session Laws Of Hawaii 2022.
Requesting The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs To Convene A Working Group To Examine And Consider The Transfer Of Native Hawaiian Burial Site Management Under Chapter 6e, Hawaii Revised Statutes, From The State Historic Preservation Division To The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs.