41-107. Office of Sonora

A. The office of Sonora is established in the office of the governor.

B. The governor shall appoint a director of the office pursuant to section 38-211 to serve at the pleasure of the governor.

C. The director of the office is eligible to receive compensation as determined under section 38-611.

D. The office shall:

1. Promote a greater understanding and facilitate the implementation of the North American free trade agreement.

2. Facilitate the flow of information and act as a liaison in the establishment of commercial relationships between Sonora, Mexico and this state.

3. Facilitate educational and training exchange programs between Sonora, Mexico and this state.

4. Promote the growth of tourism between Sonora, Mexico and this state to contribute to our economic and cultural development.

5. Assist the Arizona-Mexico commission.

6. Support the activities of various state agencies in Sonora, Mexico.

7. Adopt rules it deems necessary or desirable to further the objectives and programs of the office.

8. Formulate policies, plans and programs to effectuate the purposes of the office.

9. Employ, determine the conditions of employment and prescribe the duties and powers of administrative, professional, technical, secretarial, clerical and other persons as may be necessary in the performance of its duties and contract for the services of outside advisors, consultants and aides as may be reasonably necessary.

10. Make contracts and incur obligations within the general scope of its activities and operations subject to the availability of monies.

11. Contract with or assist other departments, agencies and institutions of the state, local and federal governments in the furtherance of its purposes, objectives and programs.

12. Subject to section 35-149, accept, expend and account for grants, monies and direct payments from public or private sources and other grants of money or property for the conduct of programs that are consistent with the overall purposes and objectives of the office.

13. Provide information and advice on request by local, state and federal agencies and by private citizens, business enterprises and community organizations on matters within the scope of its duties subject to its rules on the confidentiality of information.

14. Advise with and make recommendations to the governor and the legislature on all matters concerning its objectives.

15. Contract and enter into interagency and intergovernmental agreements pursuant to title 11, chapter 7, article 3 with any private party or public agency.