Advisory Group

President's Committee on Mental Retardation (PCMR)

More than seven and a half million Americans of all ages experience mental retardation. The PCMR was established in 1966 to act in an advisory capacity to the President and Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services on critical matters regarding programs and services for people with mental retardation. In addition, the PCMR coordinates federal agency activities in mental retardation, conducts studies of existing programs, highlights the need for appropriate changes, and promotes research.

The Committee consists of 21 citizen members selected by the President and six Cabinet-level appointees. The members undertake Committee duties in addition to their daily occupations as professionals in the field of mental retardation, related developmental disabilities, and allied areas of study.