The bill amends various sections of the General Laws to update terminology concerning older adults and individuals with disabilities. It requires the law revision director to prepare a bill for the 2026 legislative session that will replace terms such as "elder" and "elderly person(s)" with "older adult(s)," and "handicapped" or "disabled" with "adult person(s) with disabilities," with certain exemptions outlined in subsection (b). These exemptions apply to specific titles and chapters where the changes may conflict with existing government documents or cause confusion. Additionally, state departments or agencies have the option to retain the existing terminology by notifying the law revision director.

The bill also revises the definitions and membership of the Long-Term Care Coordinating Council and the Statewide Planning Program. It introduces a representative from a statewide aging advocacy organization who is 60 years of age or older to the state planning council, enhancing older adult representation in state planning processes. Furthermore, it establishes a permanent committee on aging within the council, modifies the quorum requirement to twelve members, and mandates a review of relevant chapters by March 31, 2026. The act is designed to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5719: 42-11-10
5719  SUB A: 42-66-4.1, 42-11-10