Councils on Developmental Disabilities
What are Councils on Developmental Disabilities?
Councils on Developmental Disabilities were created through the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act (DD Act) in 1970 to "engage in advocacy, capacity building, and systemic change activities that are consistent with the purpose of the DD Act; and contribute to a coordinated, consumer and family-centered, consumer and family-directed, comprehensive system of community services, individualized supports and other forms of assistance that enable individuals with developmental disabilities to exercise self-determination, be independent, be productive and be integrated and included in all facets of community life."
Councils are expected to work collaboratively with other entities funded under the DD Act, including the Protection and Advocacy systems, and the University Centers on Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDDs) in the State. There are 55 State Councils on Developmental Disabilities, one in each state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Northern Marianas, and American Samoa.
Council members are appointed by governors to represent and advocate for people with developmental disabilities. Council Members serve in a volunteer capacity. More than 60% of these volunteers must be people with developmental disabilities or family members.
Click on state or territory to access Council accomplishments/fact sheets
Click on state or territory for Council contact information
The Developmental Disabilities Act charges Councils to identify the most pressing needs of people with developmental disabilities in their State or Territory and to develop innovative and cost-effective ways to meet these needs in a manner that upholds the human and civil value of people with developmental disabilities.