DD Act and Federal Regulation Resources
On this page you will find information about the DD Act and the UCEDD program, including a link to the law, principles of the Act and a document entitled "Evolution of the University Affiliated Programs for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities" describing the history of the UCEDD grant programs. Continue Reading >
DD Act History
The first university-based entities for people with developmental disabilities were first authorized in Title 1, Part B of Public Law 88-164. This Act was signed into law on October 31, 1963, by President John F. Kennedy, just 22 days before he was assassinated. The signing of Public Law 88-164, along with Public Law 88-156 signed seven says earlier, represented the initial legislation intended to implement the recommendations of the President's Panel on Mental Retardation. Continue Reading >
About DD Act
The purpose of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 (the DD Act) is to assure that people 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 and inclusion in all facets of community life, through culturally competent programs authorized under the law. These programs include:
- State Councils on Developmental Disabilities
- Protection and Advocacy systems
- University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research and Service
- Projects of National Significance