Protection and Advocacy System for Persons with Developmental Disabilities Program

PADD assists persons who have a severe and chronic mental or physical impairment that begins before the age of 22. The impairment substantially limits the person's abilities in three or more life activities such as self-care, language, learning, mobility, self-direction, independent living, and/or economic self-sufficiency. PADD commonly assists consumers having problems with the Developmental Disabilities Program and is active in resolving exceptional education issues.

PADD Federal Legal Authority

Has the authority to pursue legal, administrative, and other appropriate remedies or approaches to protect and advocate the rights of individuals with developmental disabilities who are or who may be eligible for treatment, services, or habilitation, or who are being considered for a change in living arrangements.

Is to provide information on and referral to programs and services addressing the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities.

Has the authority to investigate incidents of abuse and neglect when reported if there is probable cause to believe the incidents occurred.

Is to have access at reasonable times and locations to any resident who is an individual with a developmental disability in a facility that is providing services, supports, and other assistance to such a resident.

May bring suit on behalf of individuals with developmental disabilities against a State, or agencies or instrumentalities of a State.

Has the authority to educate policymakers.

A developmental disability is an impairment the substantially limits a person in three or more life activities such as self-care, language, learning, mobility, self-direction, independent living, and/or economic self-sufficiency and begins before the age of 22.

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