(a) An agency head may use the services of an impartial person as a convener to assist in making the determination of need under AS 44.62.720 and to assist the agency to (1) identify the persons who will be significantly affected by a proposed regulation; and
(2) conduct discussions with affected persons on the issues of concern and determine whether the establishment of a negotiated regulation making committee is feasible and appropriate for the particular proposed regulation.
(b) A person acting as a convener may also be named as a facilitator under AS 44.62.760. The convener shall report findings and make recommendations to the agency. The report and recommendations of the convener shall be made available to the public upon request.