ATLANTA – The Georgia House of Representatives today unanimously passed House Bill 343, authored by State Representative Scott Hilton (R- Peachtree Corners). This bill would update outdated terminology in current Georgia criminal law by replacing the terms “mental retardation” and “mentally retarded” with “intellectual disability.”
“HB 343 is the first bill I have authored as a state representative, and it is a tremendous honor to begin my time here at the Capitol by sponsoring legislation that will bring dignity to families across our state,” said Rep. Hilton. “Through passage of this legislation we clearly demonstrate that Georgia is state that welcomes individuals of all skills, backgrounds and abilities.”
In 2010, mental retardation was removed from code at a national level and since that time 43 other states have taken action to strike this word.
“It is an honor to serve as a champion for those who need it most and to fight for those who may be marginalized for their abilities,” added Rep. Hilton. “I am so proud of my colleagues in the House for overwhelmingly passing this piece of legislation.”
HB 343 will now go to the Senate for consideration.
For more information on HB 343, please click here.
Representative Scott Hilton represents the citizens of District 95, which includes portions of Fulton and Gwinnett counties. He was elected into the House of Representatives in 2016, and currently serves on the Education, Health & Human Services, and Intragovernmental Coordination committees.
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