DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) – A bill that would remove the phrase “mental retardation” from most state laws has passed the Iowa Legislature and now will go to Gov. Terry Branstad. The House unanimously approved the bill Tuesday. The Senate had earlier passed the bill, also unanimously.  Branstad has indicated his support for the change. The move is part of a national effort to encourage governments and individuals to stop using the term.
     Activists say the term “mental retardation” can be hurtful to people who have a variety of disabilities.
 
     In Iowa, the phrase “intellectual disability” will be used instead.