The South Dakota Senate on a roll‑call vote adopted Senate Concurrent Resolution 607, encouraging the legislature and state agencies to use person‑first language when referring to people with disabilities.

Senator Casey Crabtree introduced the resolution on the floor, saying it “is a person first language, which references the person first rather than the disability.” Crabtree said the measure was brought to him by residents McKenna Schultz and Jamie Budmeier and by participants in Partners in Policymaking who sought a change in official phrasing to better reflect respect and inclusion.

The resolution does not change statute; it is a policy statement encouraging modernized language in legislative and administrative references. The sponsor and proponents said the change is symbolic but meaningful for constituents who told legislators that labels such as “disabled” can feel demeaning. No opponents spoke against the resolution during debate.

The secretary announced the final tally: 35 ayes, 0 nays. The president declared SCR 607 adopted.

The resolution is nonbinding policy guidance and does not impose regulatory or funding changes. Staff will handle any drafting or style changes in future printed materials if agencies choose to follow the recommendation.

The measure drew brief floor remarks and no amendment. It passed on a recorded vote and will appear in the Senate journal as adopted.