(a) A Delaware Viticulture Council is hereby created for the purposes of assisting the Department with the enhancement and promotion of viticulture activities and operations within the State. Duties of the Council shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

(1) Examine the impact of laws and regulations on the viticulture industry and recommend to the Secretary methods to simplify regulatory processes or otherwise enhance the regulatory climate with respect to the efficient siting and operation of viticulture operations;

(2) Examine the viticulture incentive programs used by other states, determine those programs used, determine programs that would best enhance viticulture operations and report to the Secretary on what actions are required to address these needs;

(3) Examine research and educational needs as they relate to the improvement of management and operations of viticulture operations and report to the Secretary on what actions are required to address these needs;

(4) Respond to requests of the Secretary to examine other issues relating to the enhancement of viticulture activities and operations in Delaware.

(b) The Council shall be composed of no less than 12 members. Members shall include:

(1) The Secretary of the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control or the Secretary’s designee;

(2) The Director of the Division of Small Business or the Director’s designee;

(3) A representative of the University of Delaware to be appointed by the President of the University;

(4) A representative of Delaware State University to be appointed by the President of the University;

(5) A representative of the Delaware Farm Bureau to be appointed by the President of the Delaware Farm Bureau;

(6) Three individuals that are actively involved in commercial viticulture activities or operations to be appointed by the Chairperson of the Council;

(7) Three individuals with an interest in viticulture activities to be appointed by the Chairperson of the Council.

(c) The Secretary shall act as chairperson of the Council, or may appoint a designee.

68 Del. Laws, c. 338, § 1; 69 Del. Laws, c. 67, § 2; 69 Del. Laws, c. 458, § 1; 70 Del. Laws, c. 186, § 1; 81 Del. Laws, c. 49, § 5; 81 Del. Laws, c. 374, § 34.