In 2009, Washington State began formally updating its statutes to replace outdated terminology with the term “intellectual disability.” Through House Bill 1835, the Legislature directed the Code Reviser to review and update language throughout the Revised Code of Washington to reflect more respectful and current terminology. The effort recognized the importance of using language that reflects dignity and aligns with evolving understanding in the disability community.

The change was part of a broader national movement toward person-first language and away from terms that had become stigmatizing over time. Advocacy organizations, self-advocates, and families across the country were calling for more respectful language in law and policy. Washington’s actions in 2009, followed by additional updates in 2010, aligned state statutes with these values and with similar federal efforts such as Rosa’s Law. The update marked an important step in reinforcing respect, inclusion, and recognition of people as individuals first.