(a) The department shall:
(1) prepare a manual that establishes minimum standards for the operation of aircraft by state agencies; and
(2) adopt procedures for the distribution of the manual to state agencies.
(b) The manual must include provisions for:
(1) pilot certification standards, including medical requirements for pilots;
(2) recurring training programs for pilots;
(3) general operating and flight rules;
(4) coordinated passenger scheduling; and
(5) other issues the department determines are necessary to ensure the efficient and safe operation of aircraft by a state agency.
(c) The department shall confer with and solicit the written advice of state agencies the department determines are principal users of aircraft operated by the department and, to the extent practicable, incorporate that advice in the development of the manual and subsequent changes to the manual.
(d) The department shall give an officer normally elected by statewide election priority in the scheduling of aircraft. The department by rule may require a 12-hour notice by the officer to obtain the priority in scheduling.