The Joint Committee on Children, Families, and Persons with Disabilities convened on June 10, 2025, to discuss several significant legislative proposals aimed at enhancing protections for individuals with disabilities in Massachusetts. The meeting highlighted the urgency of these discussions, particularly in light of recent federal policy changes and ongoing challenges within the state’s support systems.

One of the central topics was the expansion of Nikki's Law, which aims to strengthen protections against abuse for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Advocates emphasized the importance of updating the language used in the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) regulations to better reflect current understanding and needs. The proposed changes would broaden the registry of known abusers, ensuring that over 150 individuals are prohibited from harming vulnerable populations. This initiative is particularly crucial as the state faces Medicaid funding cuts and a growing waitlist for services, with thousands of individuals currently underserved.

Additionally, the committee discussed the archaic language bill, often referred to as Katie's Law. This legislation seeks to eliminate outdated and derogatory terms from Massachusetts law, aligning state language with more respectful and accurate terminology, such as replacing "mental retardation" with "intellectual disability." Advocates argued that language plays a critical role in shaping societal attitudes toward individuals with disabilities. By modernizing legal language, the state would take a significant step toward fostering a more inclusive environment.

Josie Burkes Abbott, chair of the policy committee for the Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council, shared her personal experiences to underscore the importance of this legislative change. She noted that the stigma associated with outdated terminology can have lasting effects on individuals' self-perception and societal treatment. Abbott's testimony reinforced the idea that changing language is not merely a cosmetic adjustment but a necessary step toward promoting dignity and respect for people with disabilities.

The committee's discussions reflect a broader commitment to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities in Massachusetts. As the state grapples with funding challenges and service delivery issues, the proposed legislation aims to fill critical gaps in protection and support. The next steps will involve further deliberation on these bills, with advocates urging swift action to ensure that vulnerable populations receive the protections they deserve.