(a) There is hereby created the New York state conference of local mental hygiene directors, hereinafter referred to as the conference.

(b) The conference shall be composed of all the directors of community services as defined in this chapter.

(c) The conference shall meet twice a year, or when called by the chairman, provided ten days' notice is given.

(d) The conference shall elect bi-annually, from among its members, a chairman, vice-chairman, secretary and treasurer who shall serve for two-year terms. An executive committee composed of, but not limited to, the above named officials shall be responsible for the convening of meetings, recording and distribution of minutes, and other administrative functions.

(e) The conference shall have the power to adopt, amend or repeal by-laws relating to its business and the conduct of its affairs.

(f) The conference shall have the following powers: 1. To review and comment upon rules or regulations proposed by any of the offices of the department for the operation of local service plans and programs. Comments on rules or regulations approved by the conference shall be given to the appropriate commissioner or commissioners for review and consideration; and 2. To propose rules or regulations governing the operation of the local services programs, and to forward such proposed rules or regulations to the appropriate commissioner or commissioners for review and consideration.

(g) The chairman of the conference may appoint, for the purpose of advising the commissioners, such other committees of the conference as he may from time to time deem necessary.