About Us
History
For more than 30 years, Developmental Disabilities Councils have played a criticial role at the State and Federal levels in helping all States and Territories develop, improve, and expand the system of services and supports for people with developmental disabilities. Councils were originally designed to study the needs of people with developmental disabilities, but now serve as key advocates in the DD system. The Missouri Planning Council began as the Missouri Advisory Council on Mental Retardation and Community Mental Health Centers with the passage of the Mental Retardation Facilities and Communities Mental Health Centers Construction Act in 1963. Funding was not available until 1970 when federal DD legislation was passed. Federal Reauthorization of the DD Act in 1987 and again in 2000 brought changes that led to the current Council focus and efforts. The Missouri Council has remained in state statute, as well as Federal Law since its inception in 1971, but the focus and role have evolved with changes in State Legislation and Executive Orders by several Governors.
The Missouri Planning Council for Developmental Disabilities is a federally- funded, 23-member, consumer-driven council appointed by the Governor. Its mandate under P.L. 106-402, the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act, is to assure that individuals with developmental disabilities and their families participate in the design of and have access to needed community services, individualized supports, and other forms of assistance that promote self-determination, independence, productivity, and integration in all aspects of community life.