Minnesota Agencies

Promote the development of a consumer and family-centered comprehensive system and coordinated array of culturally competent services, supports and other assistance designed to achieve independence, productivity, and integration and inclusion into the community for individuals with developmental disabilities.

The first Council was appointed in October 1971 in accordance with the authority prescribed to the Governor of Minnesota by the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act. The Act requires a state council to serve as an advocate for all persons with developmental disabilities by carrying out activities in major areas of emphasis.

The GCDD is funded under the provisions of Public Law 106-402. See also 42 USC Chapter 75 for a fuller history of this federal legislation.

The Council is composed of 25 members appointed for three-year terms with a maximum of two consecutive terms. Each member is appointed by the Governor from among state residents. Council members  include representatives of state agencies responsible for administering federal funds that support programs and services for people with developmental disabilities and the elderly. Council members represent the Departments of Education, Health, Employment and Economic Development, and Human Services; the Board on Aging; the Institute on Community Integration (University Center for Excellence) and the Minnesota Disability Law Center (Protection and Advocacy system). Nongovernmental agencies and private nonprofit organizations are also represented.