(a)    Except as otherwise provided in subsections (c) and (d) of this section, the governing body of each county shall establish a mental health advisory committee.

(b)    The purpose of a mental health advisory committee shall be to serve as advocate for a comprehensive mental health system for persons of all ages.

(c)    The governing bodies of two or more counties may establish, by agreement, an intercounty mental health advisory committee if:

(1)    The population of one of the counties is too small to warrant the establishment of a mental health advisory committee for that county; and

(2)    The Director consents.

(d)    The governing body of a county may establish a joint mental health and addictions advisory committee.

(e)    In Howard County, if a quasi–public authority is established under Subtitle 12 of this title, the governing body may designate the authority as the mental health advisory committee for the county.

(f)    In Baltimore City, the governing body may designate Behavioral Health Systems Baltimore the local behavioral health authority for Baltimore City under Subtitle 12 of this title, as the mental health advisory committee for Baltimore City.

(g)    In Anne Arundel County, the governing body may designate Anne Arundel County Mental Health Agency, Inc., the core service agency or local behavioral health authority for Anne Arundel County under Subtitle 12 of this title, as the mental health advisory committee for Anne Arundel County.

(h)    In Washington County, the governing body may designate Washington County Mental Health Authority, Inc., the core service agency for Washington County under Subtitle 12 of this title, as the mental health advisory committee for Washington County.