(a) It is the intent of the Legislature that the department provide leadership in the establishment and funding of mental health research projects. The projects shall lead to better understanding of the etiology of serious mental illness and the development of treatment alternatives necessary to meet the needs of the citizens of this state.
(b) The director shall appoint a Mental Health Research Advisory Committee. The committee shall consult with program administrators, providers, consumers, families, and research scientists. The committee shall advise and assist the director in establishing research priorities and in other research related activities as appropriate.