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.