Michigan pushes to eliminate 'r-word' from statutes

LANSING, Mich., March 6 (UPI) -- There is a statewide effort in Michigan to eliminate the word "retarded" from Michigan law.

Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder (R) declared March 5 as "Spread the Word to End the Word" day to raise awareness about the hurtful use of the word "retarded" and that it should be removed from state law forever.

The word is present in 17 state statutes but lawmakers in Michigan are quickly pushing through bills to change that. The bill is expected to be fast-tracked to Snyder's desk and is expected to be signed by the end of the month.

[Fox17]