The duties and functions of the commission shall be to do all of the following:

(a) Serve as the principal advocate body in the state on behalf of older individuals, including, but not limited to, advisory participation in the consideration of all legislation and regulations made by state and federal departments and agencies relating to programs and services that affect older individuals.

(b) Participate with the department in training workshops for community, regional and statewide senior advocates, to help older individuals understand legislative, regulatory, and program implementation processes.

(c) Prepare, publish, and disseminate information, findings, and recommendations regarding the well-being of older individuals.

(d) Actively participate and advise the department in the development and preparation of the State Plan on Aging, conduct public hearings on the State Plan on Aging, review and comment on the state plan, and monitor the progress of the plan’s implementation.

(e) Meet at least six times annually in order to study problems of older individuals and present findings and make recommendations.

(f) Hold hearings throughout the state, that may include conducting an annual statewide hearing inviting all departments administering programs affecting seniors, in order to gather information and advise the Governor, Legislature, department, and agencies on all levels of government regarding solutions to problems confronting older individuals and the most effective use of existing resources and available services for individuals.

(g) Hire an executive director and, within budgetary limits, such staff as may be necessary for the commission to fulfill its duties.

(h) Develop, in cooperation with the department, a method for the selection of delegates to the statewide legislative meeting of senior advocates.

(i) Perform other duties as may be required by statute, regulation, or resolution.

(j) Meet and consult with the area agency on aging advisory councils in order to exchange information, and assist in training, planning, and development of advocacy skills.

(Added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1097, Sec. 13. Effective January 1, 1997.)