Iowa Code Title VI. Human Services [Chs. 216-255A] § 217.3. Duties of council

1. Organize annually and select a chairperson and vice chairperson.

2. Adopt and establish policy for the operation and conduct of the department, subject to any guidelines which may be adopted by the general assembly, and the implementation of all services and programs administered by the department.

3. Report immediately to the governor any failure by the department to carry out any of the policy decisions or directives of the council.

4. Approve the budget of the department prior to submission to the governor. Prior to approval of the budget, the council shall publicize and hold a public hearing to provide explanations and hear questions, opinions, and suggestions regarding the budget. Invitations to the hearing shall be extended to the governor, the governor-elect, the director of the department of management, and other persons deemed by the council as integral to the budget process. The budget materials submitted to the governor shall include a review of options for revising the medical assistance program made available by federal action or by actions implemented by other states as identified by the department, the medical assistance advisory council created in section 249A.4B, and by county representatives. The review shall address what potential revisions could be made in this state and how the changes would be beneficial to Iowans.

5. Insure that all programs administered or services rendered by the department directly to any citizen or through a local agency to any citizen are coordinated and integrated so that any citizen does not receive a duplication of services from various departments or local agencies that could be rendered by one department or local agency. If the council finds that such is not the case, it shall hear and determine which department or local agency shall provide the needed service or services and enter an order of their determination by resolution of the council which must be concurred in by at least a majority of the members. Thereafter such order or resolution of the council shall be obeyed by all state departments and local agencies to which it is directed.

6. Adopt all necessary rules recommended by the department prior to their promulgation pursuant to chapter 17A.

7. Recommend to the governor the names of individuals qualified for the position of director when a vacancy exists in the office.