Mass. agency for disabled to change name

BOSTON -- Advocates for the developmentally disabled say words do matter. That's why they're hailing a coming name change at a state agency.

On Monday, lawmakers and advocates will celebrate a decision to change the name of the Department of Mental Retardation to the Department of Developmental Services.

The Arc of Massachusetts, which serves and advocates for people with mental and developmental disabilities, says the word "retarded" is often used as an epithet.

The new name will take effect on June 30.

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