Welf. & Inst. Code, § 9202

The duties and functions of the commission shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following:

(a) Serve as the principal advocate body in the state on behalf of older individuals, including, but not limited to, advisory participation in the consideration of all legislation, regulations, and initiatives made by state and federal departments and agencies relating to programs and services that affect older adults, adults with disabilities, and caregivers.

(b) Participate with the department in training workshops for community, regional and statewide aging and disability advocates, to promote greater understanding of the legislative, regulatory, and program implementation processes.

(c) Prepare, publish, and disseminate information, findings, and recommendations regarding the health and well-being of older individuals.

(d) Actively participate and advise the department in the development and preparation of the State Plan on Aging, conduct public hearings on the State Plan on Aging, review and comment on the state plan, and monitor the progress of the plan’s implementation.

(e) Meet at least four times annually in order to study problems of older individuals and present findings and make recommendations.

(f) Hold hearings throughout the state, that may include conducting an annual statewide hearing inviting all departments administering programs affecting older adults, adults with disabilities, and caregivers, in order to gather information and advise the Governor, Legislature, department, and agencies on all levels of government regarding solutions to problems confronting older individuals and the most effective use of existing resources and available services for individuals.

(g) Hire an executive director, who will, within budgetary limits, hire staff as may be necessary for the commission to fulfill its duties.

(h) Perform other duties as may be required by statute, regulation, resolution, or executive order.

(i) Meet and consult with the Area Agency on Aging Advisory Council of California in order to exchange information, and assist in training, planning, and development of advocacy skills.

(j) Monitor and, when deemed appropriate, engage in federal advocacy efforts that may include, but not be limited to, providing comments on federal Older Americans Act reauthorizations and federal rulemaking packages impacting older adults, adults with disabilities, and caregivers.