The board is a rulemaking and advisory body that can adopt, amend, or repeal rules and standards of the department. Executive and administrative powers of the department belong solely to the director of the department.
The board's seven citizen members are appointed by the governor and each represent one of seven geographic regions of the state. They are the voting members of the board. The board also includes the department director, a representative from the governor's office, and the chairs of the Health and Welfare committees in the Idaho Legislature.
Public Comment
Members of the public are invited to comment on proposed rules, which are published in the Administrative Bulletin. Comments are carefully reviewed by board members before they make a final decision on an issue.
All board meetings are open to the public, as stipulated by Idaho's Open Meeting law. Anyone who wants to discuss an issue directly with the board at a regular meeting may request time on the agenda at least 30 days before the meeting.