Press Room

New name centers skills and strengths of people with disabilities, removes offensive terminology

(BOSTON—8/29/2024) Today the Massachusetts Senate passed legislation to rename the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) to MassAbility, a change that will define the agency’s role in supporting residents with disabilities live independently.

The name change reflects the intention to empower individuals living with disabilities and move away from outdated terminology as the office undergoes broad changes towards a more expansive model for disability employment services and independent living.

The legislation also removes offensive terminology in the Massachusetts General Laws referring to people with disabilities in sections of the law that pertain to MassAbility.

“Every person has the right to live an independent and meaningful life regardless of ability, with the same access to work, housing, and services that every resident deserves,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “This name change reflects the strong work of MassAbility to deliver that access to every individual who works with them. In removing archaic laws, we are taking an important step towards making our laws reflective of the equitable Commonwealth we continue to strive for. I’m deeply grateful to Senator Collins for his committee’s work on this legislation and each Senator for their support.”

“I’m pleased the Senate has joined the growing list of states that utilize empowering titles to replace archaic terminology no longer appropriate in today’s world,” said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues (D-Westport), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “Renaming the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) to MassAbility reflects our commitment towards helping individuals with disabilities gain greater autonomy and independence. This new terminology is important in that it signifies a new nationwide focus on removing barriers for people with disabilities, and recognizing and advancing a person’s strengths and skill sets as they seek better vocational opportunities and independent community living. I would like to thank Senator Collins for bringing this important legislation forward”

“This legislation is not just a name change but a mission enhancement,” said Senator Nick Collins, Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on State Administration & Regulatory Oversight. “By defining the Commonwealth’s response now with emphasis on the abilities of our citizens, we are taking the MassAbility Commission in a new proactive, positive direction to better serve the community’s needs.”

“This historic legislation represents the state's commitment to propelling the disability movement forward,” said Commissioner Toni Wolf. “Language has the power to shape people and culture, tackle stigmas, biases, and stereotypes. For too long, the words we’ve used have not reflected the strengths, resilience, and determination of the disability community. This legislation changes that. We are changing life in Massachusetts for the better, making it more equitable, accessible, and inclusive for people with disabilities.”

A previous version of this bill having passed the House of Representatives, the two branches will now reconcile the differences between the bills, before sending it to the Governor’s desk.

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