BOSTON –?The Healey-Driscoll Administration filed legislation to rename the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) to MassAbility to better represent the agency's role in helping those with disabilities gain autonomy and independence. 

 

The proposed name change is part of the office's ongoing efforts to expand its reach and usher in a new, more expansive model for disability employment services and independent living.  

 

 The name was selected following significant research, focus groups, surveys, and conversations with the disability community, businesses, providers, and advocacy organizations. With this proposal, Massachusetts joins a national trend moving away from the term "rehabilitation," and instead uses terminology that centers the skills and strengths of people with disabilities.  

 

 "The name 'MassAbility' centers the strengths and capabilities of the community we serve, and it more fully captures the range of services that the agency offers. We are proposing this change to reduce stigma for the disability community and to help ensure that no one is left behind as we pursue a strong economy for everyone in this post-pandemic era," said Governor Healey. "Our administration is grateful for the stakeholders who engaged with us during this process, and we look forward to working with our legislative partners to make it official." 

 

 The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission provides services that break down barriers and empower people with disabilities to live life on their own terms. The agency supports people with physical, cognitive, intellectual or mental health conditions throughout the job-seeking and employment process and offers a range of programs focused on job training and employment, independent community living, and disability determination for federal benefit programs.