The ‘R-Word’ Will Be Removed From Michigan Laws

A word that's been used in many different Michigan laws for years will now be removed from the books completely.

Lieutenant Governor Brian Calley signed legislation Friday morning that will remove the word "retarded" from all state laws that currently contain the word. 

This change was approved earlier in March by both the state Senate and House.

The word "retarded' is used 15 times in different state laws that deal with issues ranging from mental health institutions to criminal activity. The term "developmental disability" will replace it in all 15 of those laws.