In 1970, the term ‘developmental disability’ is introduced in the Developmental Disabilities Services and Facilities construction amendments to the Mental Retardation and Community Mental Health Centers Construction Act of 1963.

This act extended eligibility for community-based mental health services beyond individuals with mental retardation to those with epilepsy, cerebral palsy, autism, dyslexia and other neurological conditions. The definition of developmental disability required that it ‘originated prior to age 18 years, is expected to continue indefinitely and constitutes a substantial handicap.’