A statutory entity, the Maine Developmental Services Oversight and Advisory Board (the board) provides independent oversight over programs and services for adults with intellectual disabilities or autism that are provided, authorized, funded or supported by the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) or any other agency or department of state government. The board provides advice and systemic recommendations to the commissioner, the Governor and the Legislature regarding policies, priorities, budgets and legislation affecting the rights and interests of persons with intellectual disabilities or autism.
As established in Title 34-B §1222 and in Title 5 §12004J, the board consists of 15 members appointed by the Governor with representation including, but not limited to:
- Protection and advocacy agency pursuant to Title 5, section 19502
- Statewide coalition that works to support and facilitate the ability of local and statewide self-advocacy organizations to network with each other and with national organizations;
- Nonprofit organization that serves teens and young adults with emotional and intellectual disabilities
- Statewide coalition that works to support and facilitate the ability of local and statewide self-advocacy organizations to network with each other and with national organizations
- Maine Developmental Disabilities Council
The board endeavors to ensure that at least eight members are persons with intellectual disabilities or Autism or family members, guardians, or allies, of people who receive services funded by DHHS.
2026 Board Members
Kimberly Christensen
J. Richardson Collins
David Cowing
Rachel Dyer
Richard Estabrook
Kim Humphrey
Mark Kemmerle
Barrett Littlefield
Ann-Marie Mayberry
Bernie Oster
Jennifer Putnam
Katie Qualey
Rory Robb
Cullen Ryan (Chair)
Fatia Waite
Joshua Weidemann