The Council is an agency within the executive branch, but functions independently within its statutory authority to serve the long-term public interest. The Council is responsible for establishing the policy framework through which the agency carries out its statutory responsibilities. Specifically, the Council shall:
  (1) exercise the authority provided by law to adopt policies and rules governing Council activities;
  (2) develop and implement policies that clearly separate the policymaking authority of the Council and the management responsibilities of the executive director and staff of the Council;
  (3) approve the state plan and amendments;
  (4) serve as an advocate for state and federal legislation, appropriations and policies on behalf of individuals with developmental disabilities as authorized by federal law;
  (5) oversee operations of the Council for integrity, effectiveness, and efficiency;
  (6) approve personnel policies that provide for the selection, supervision, and evaluation of the executive director and staff;
  (7) ensure projects and activities comply with all applicable federal and state requirements; and
  (8) carry out other responsibilities as provided by Council policies.

Source Note: The provisions of this §876.4 adopted to be effective December 14, 2003, 28 TexReg 10972; amended to be effective August 28, 2012, 37 TexReg 6686