(a) As appropriate, the program shall utilize the principles of the agency’s Environmental Justice Strategy and Environmental Justice Action Plan developed pursuant to Sections 71110 to 71113, inclusive, of the Public Resources Code, so that the activities of the panel and the implementation of the program provide opportunities for public participation and community capacity building with meaningful stakeholder input. This strategy and plan shall accord the highest respect and value to every individual and community by developing and conducting public health and environmental protection programs, policies, and activities in a manner that promotes equity and affords fair treatment, accessibility, and protection for all Californians, regardless of race, age, culture, income, or geographic location.

(b) (1) To carry out this section, the program shall develop a strategy and plan that are to be followed in the implementation of the program. This strategy and plan shall be used to establish the framework for integrating public participation in this program. The department may utilize models used by boards, departments, and offices at the agency for community outreach pursuant to this section.

(2) Public participation shall include, but need not be limited to, conducting stakeholder meetings and workshops to solicit relevant information, data, suggestions, and feedback for the development and implementation of the program.

(Added by Stats. 2006, Ch. 599, Sec. 2. Effective January 1, 2007.)