Council members, approximately 30, are appointed by the Governor, with recommendation from the Council. Sixty percent of the
membership must be either persons with developmental disabilities,
parents or family members. Others represent certain public and private entities providing
services and supports to individuals with developmental disabilities, including: Department of
Rehabilitation (Rehabilitation Act of 1973), Department of Education (Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act), Department of Human Services (older Americans Act of 1965),
Governor’s Office of Medicaid (Title XIX), Department of Public Health (Title V),
representation from a non-governmental agency and private non-profit entities, Mississippi
Protection and Advocacy System and University Centers of Excellence.Mission Statement
“The Mississippi Council on Developmental Disabilities is a body of
advocates, appointed by the Governor, who promote quality of life for people with developmental
disabilities, their families, and the community at large. Improvement in quality of life is
provided through initiatives that have potential for replication, thus creating systemic
change.”
