1. (a) There is a Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council.
2. (b) The Council is an independent unit of State government.
3. (c) The Council operates and receives funding in accordance with the Act.

4. (d) The Council has the authority to:

   1. (1) Conduct and support advocacy, systems change, and capacity-building efforts to promote inclusive communities and equity in services for individuals with disabilities in the State;
   2. (2) Research best practices and provide related training and technical assistance to communities in the State; and
   3. (3) Inform State and local leaders about disability issues.

5. (e) The Council shall:

   1. (1) Develop and implement a 5-year strategic plan in accordance with the Act;
   2. (2) Monitor, review, and annually evaluate the implementation of the State plan;
   3. (3) To the extent practicable, review any plan in the State that relates to programs affecting individuals with developmental disabilities;
   4. (4) On request, submit to the Secretary of the federal Department of Health and Human Services periodic reports on its activities;
   5. (5) Serve as an advocate for individuals with developmental disabilities;
   6. (6) Conduct or support programs, projects, and activities that carry out the purpose of the Act;
   7. (7) Advise the Governor, the General Assembly, State agencies, and other relevant organizations on policies, programs, and issues related to the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families; and
   8. (8) Review and make findings and recommendations regarding programs related to the support and services provided to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
6. (f) A State entity may not interfere with the Council's advocacy, capacity building, systemic change activities, budget, personnel, or State plan development or implementation.

Added by Acts 2023, c. 15, § 1, eff. July 1, 2023; Acts 2023, c. 16, § 1, eff. July 1, 2023.