Words Matter for the District of Columbia Courts Act

This provision updates Section 11-501(2)(D) of the District of Columbia Official Code, which defines the jurisdiction of the United States District Court. It replaces the phrase "substantially retarded persons" with "persons with moderate intellectual disabilities" to align the legal language with modern, respectful terminology for individuals with cognitive impairments. This change ensures that the federal court operating within D.C. uses appropriate language when referring to these individuals in matters of jurisdiction.

This provision amends Section 11-921(a)(4)(D) of the District of Columbia Official Code, which outlines the jurisdiction of the Superior Court. It replaces the outdated term "substantially retarded persons" with "persons with moderate intellectual disabilities," ensuring that the language used in the Superior Court's legal framework is current and respectful. This change applies to the primary local court in D.C., impacting a broad range of local legal matters.

This provision modifies Section 11-1101(a)(15) of the District of Columbia Official Code, which pertains to the jurisdiction of the Family Court. It replaces the phrase "the at least moderately mentally retarded" with "persons with moderate intellectual disabilities," thereby updating the language to be more appropriate and respectful within the context of family law. This change is particularly significant given the sensitive nature of cases handled by the Family Court.