N.Y. Stops Using the 'R' Word

Gov. David A. Paterson has signed into law a bill which changes the name of the New York State Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities (OMRDD) to the New York State Office For People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD).

The  legislation removed the words "Mental Retardation" from the name of the state agency and from state statute and regulations, and takes effect immediately.

"This name change sends a strong message that New York values the dignity and respect of individuals with developmental disabilities," Paterson said. "For many people with developmental disabilities the words 'mental retardation' are hurtful and represent a disrespectful term. The Office For People With Developmental Disabilities is a name that respects their rights as people with developmental disabilities to have an agency name that invokes pride, and not shame."

This has been the culmination of several efforts over the last few years to change the agency's name. Most recently, a stakeholder meeting was convened with parents, advocates, providers and individuals with developmental disabilities. There was overwhelming agreement that the time had come to remove the "R" word. Stakeholders and representatives from across the State gathered together to come to the OPWDD consensus.

 "The time has finally come for New York to join the 48 other states that have dropped the 'R' word," said OPWDD Commissioner Diana Jones Ritter. "I want to assure everyone that our name may be changing, but who we are and what we do stays the same: We have and will always provide top quality supports and services to people and families. I would like to commend Governor Paterson for his efforts ensuring that this name change would be achieved."

Marc Brandt, executive director of NYSARC, Inc., cheered the new law.

"As the organization that initiated the idea of a separate office for persons with developmental disabilities nearly half a century ago, we applaud the governor and the Legislature for a successful initiative that keeps with the tradition of dignity and respect that our families and their loved ones have fought to maintain for so many decades," Brandt said.

The name change will not result in any new cost for the agency or the State Financial Plan. Implementation of the name change will be gradual to avoid new costs, with the new name phased in as part of normal replacement costs. New signage is not needed for the agency's regional Developmental Disabilities Services Offices (DDSOs) since their names will not be changed.

Jill Warner, executive director of Jawonio in New City, said she is pleased the name change is official. She explained that for her organization, the issue was about treating people with respect.

"Nobody wants to be labeled with a name that has a negative connotation for their enitre life," said Warner. "Hopefully this will help lead to a new level of respect for people for who they are."