25-01-01.1. State council on developmental disabilities

25-01-01.1. State council on developmental disabilities 1. There must be maintained in the department of health and human services a state council on developmental disabilities consisting of: a. One representative of each of the following departments, divisions, institutions, and organizations designated by the head of such agency or organization: (1) Office of superintendent of public instruction. (2) Job service North Dakota. b. Three representatives of the department of health and human services to include at least: (1) One representative from the life skills and transition center designated by its superintendent; and (2) One representative from the department's public health division. 2. The council shall, at a minimum, include representation that conforms to federal law requirements regarding state councils on developmental disabilities. All members of the council must be appointed by the governor. The council shall select its own officers who shall serve for a term of two years commencing on October first of each year. Meetings must be held at least twice a year or at the call of the chairman or upon notice in writing signed by not less than three members of the council. A simple majority of the council constitutes a quorum and may act upon any matter coming before the council. Members of the council are entitled to reimbursement in the same manner and at the same rate provided by law for other state officials. 3. The council shall assist in the development of the state plan for developmental disabilities, monitor and evaluate the implementation of such state plan, and review and comment on all state plans in the state which relate to programs affecting individuals with developmental disabilities. The council may take any action reasonably necessary to secure and administer any money made available to state councils on developmental disabilities through the Developmentally Disabled and Bill of Rights Act [Pub. L. 95-602; 92 Stat. 2955; 42 U.S.C. 6000 et seq.]. The council, if approved by the governor, shall appoint a full-time director who shall assist the council. The director must be classified under the state personnel merit system. The council shall also perform studies and surveys of the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities in North Dakota and shall facilitate coordination of the activities of all state departments, divisions, agencies, and institutions having responsibilities in the field of developmental disabilities.