(2) The program may also provide the following:

(a) Identification and publicity of the needs and concerns of individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing as their needs and concerns relate to the full achievement of economic, social, legal and political equity.

(b) Advice to the Department of Human Services, the Governor, the Legislative Assembly and appropriate state agency administrators on how state services for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing might be improved or better coordinated to meet the needs of these individuals.

(c) Information to individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing about where they may obtain assistance in rehabilitation and employment and about laws prohibiting discrimination in employment as a result of disability.

(d) Cooperation with and assistance to interest groups in rehabilitation and employment of individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing and encouragement of public and private employers to undertake affirmative action to ensure equitable employment of individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.

(e) Promotion of a continuous program of information and education to employers and the general public to increase awareness of and sensitivity to the needs of individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing for equitable education and training that will ensure for these individuals their full vocational potential.

(f) Promotion of a continuous information program for placement of individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing in suitable employment.

(3)(a) The Director of Human Services shall appoint an advisory committee to advise the director regarding the program. The director shall consult with the advisory committee regarding the services described in this section.

(b) The director shall appoint to the advisory committee 12 individuals who have experience in issues that affect individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. [2005 c.663 §11; 2007 c.70 §185]