The Commission shall have the power and duty to:

1. Assess the direct and indirect economic impact of the manufacturing sector on Virginia's economy.

2. Determine the needs of the manufacturing sector and the most efficient, and cost-effective manner in which such needs may be addressed.

3. Consider the effect of local and state tax policies; regulatory compliance costs; research and development investment, energy, transportation, and workforce training policies and costs on the manufacturing sector; and recommend the appropriate role for state and local governments in ensuring the future of the manufacturing sector in the Commonwealth.

4. Develop a comprehensive energy plan for the Commonwealth, which evaluates the Commonwealth's current and future energy supply and demand. In developing the plan, the Commission shall solicit and analyze suggestions and information from the following sectors: utility providers, petroleum companies, automobile manufacturers, fuel suppliers, technology companies, environmental organizations, and consumers.

5. Evaluate the effectiveness of state and local economic development programs and incentives on the research and development of technology-intensive manufacturing.

6. Consult and coordinate with the Joint Commission on Technology and Science, the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission, the Joint Commission on Administrative Rules, and other legislative commissions, committees, and councils to minimize fragmentation and duplication relative to the respective powers and duties of such groups.

7. Provide manufacturers and advocates with a forum to address their concerns.

8. Report annually its findings and recommendations to the General Assembly and the Governor as provided in the procedures of the Division of Legislative Automated Systems. The chairman of the Commission shall submit to the General Assembly and the Governor an annual executive summary of the interim activity and work of the Commission no later than the first day of each regular session of the General Assembly. The executive summary shall be submitted as provided in the procedures of the Division of Legislative Automated Systems for the processing of legislative documents and reports and shall be posted on the General Assembly's website.

2006, cc. 607, 900.