The bill proposes amendments to the General Laws to update terminology related to individuals with disabilities, specifically replacing outdated terms such as "mentally retarded" with "minors with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities" and "persons with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities." These changes affect various sections, including those defining minors with disabilities, educational arrangements, transportation provisions, and the recognition of approved educational centers. Additionally, the bill revises language in sections concerning abuse in healthcare facilities, expanding the definition of abuse and updating terms like "facility," "high managerial agent," "mistreatment," and "neglect."

Further changes include mandating examinations by licensed professionals for patients or residents harmed by abuse, neglect, or mistreatment in healthcare facilities, with a reporting requirement to the appropriate department. The bill also addresses unlicensed health care practices, outlining prohibited conduct and disciplinary actions, and amends vehicle registration fee exemptions for specific organizations. It repeals the entire Chapter 40.1-8 entitled "Governor’s Committee on Mental Retardation," indicating a shift in language and approach to addressing the needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The bill also revises the purpose of the committee, removing certain duties and authorities, and updates the definition of community residences and the criteria for the definition of "adult with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities."

Statutes affected:
282: 23-74-4, 31-6-6, 33-5-4, 34-4-25