Extending ADA 20 Years Later

Twenty years removed from the passage of the Americans With Disabilities Act, Massachusetts lawmakers continue to refine state laws in the spirit of the landmark law.

State Rep. Tom Sannicandro said House No. 4922 would remove all references to "mental retardation" in state law and replace them with "persons with intellectual disabilities." He called it a "civil rights issue" while Rachel Kolliopoulos of Best Buddies described the old term as "outdated." [MetroWest Daily News]

Massachusetts Rep. Edward Markey sponsored a bill to ensure Internet and television access is provided to Americans with disabilities. The bill, which passed 348-23, calls for smart phone access for the blind, enhanced cable menus for blind and deaf Americans, and financial subsidies for access. A Senate vote is next. (Hey, Scott, you need to support this one.) [AP via Google]