Historical Overview of the
Developmental Disabilities Assistance
and Bill of Rights Act

Since 1963, the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act (DD Act) has made a crucial difference in the lives and futures of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Through the DD Act, federal funds support the development and operation of Councils on Developmental Disabilities, Protection and Advocacy Systems, University Centers (formerly known as University Affiliated Programs), and Projects of National Significance.

The focus has changed dramatically over the years, from building facilities where people with developmental disabilities were housed and services provided to fundamental systems change that emphasizes personal choice about where people live and work and promotes active participation in community life. A compendium of historical documents that describes the evolution of the DD Act from 1963 to the present is now available at: http://www.mncdd.org/dd_act/dd-act.html.