From Roosevelt to Reagan: federal spending for mental retardation and developmental disabilities

Results of an analysis of 50 years of federal government spending for mental retardation and developmental disabilities were summarized. Spending for services and income maintenance grew rapidly from the early 1950s through fiscal year (FY) 1981. Since FY 1981, total federal spending for mental retardation has plateaued. Federal support for research and training has declined steadily since the early 1970s. The lack of support for research and training imperils the achievement of national objectives in prevention of retardation and integration of retarded individuals into community settings.