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(Prairie News Service) Ballot questions, like one dealing with property taxes, are getting attention this election season in North Dakota. But another gets to the heart of how people with disabilities are described by state agencies and public documents.

If Measure 1 is approved, North Dakota's Constitution would be amended to replace outdated terminology.

For example, a "state hospital for the insane" would be changed to a "state hospital for the care of individuals with mental illness."

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Veronica Zietz, executive director of the North Dakota Protection and Advocacy Project, said a successful outcome would be a positive step for the state.

"This ballot measure really signifies that how we talk about people matters," said Zietz, "and it can be an indication of dignity and respect."

This specific ballot question arose from the last legislative session after disability rights advocates and lawmakers huddled together. Similar efforts are unfolding in states like Nevada as well.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 150,000 North Dakota adults have some form of disability.

Zietz said creating more acceptance is likely to affect communities more than you might think.

"Chances are that you all know somebody that has a disability, or care about somebody that has a disability or a mental health condition," said Zietz. "And I guess I feel like this ballot measure is an opportunity to show support for that person that you care about."

She said it's important to remember that people with disabilities also are successful business owners or parents, and play many roles in society.

While there's no opposition to the ballot question, over time, differing views have emerged within the disability community over which terminology is preferred.