§ 172:8 — Duties of Commissioner

The commissioner shall:
I. Study the problems presented by alcohol and drug abuse, including methods and facilities available for the care, treatment, custody, employment, and rehabilitation of persons who are inebriates, alcohol abusers, drug dependent, or drug abusers.
II. Promote meetings and programs for the discussion of alcohol and drug dependency and abuse for the guidance and assistance of individuals, schools, courts, and other public and private agencies.
III. Conduct, promote and finance, in full or in part, studies, and other appropriate facilities dealing with the physical, psychological, and/or social aspects of alcohol and drug abuse.
IV. Have the authority to accept or reject for examination, diagnosis, guidance, and treatment, insofar as funds and facilities permit, any resident of the state who comes to the commissioner voluntarily for advice and treatment.
V. [Repealed.]
VI. Render biennially to the governor and council a report of his activities including recommendations for improvements therein by legislation or otherwise.
VII. Coordinate community medical resources for the emergency medical care of persons suffering acute mental or physical reaction to alcohol or drugs and of persons suffering from drug dependency.
VIII. Employ such assistants as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this chapter, in accordance with state personnel regulations, and within available appropriations and funds.
IX. Disseminate information on the subjects of alcohol and drug abuse for the guidance and assistance of individuals, schools, courts and other public and private agencies.
X. [Repealed.]

Legislative History

1950, 5, part 19:5. RSA 172:8. 1969, 501:3. 1973, 140:11. 1979, 378:15-17, 34-36. 1985, 218:2. 1988, 242:10, III, IV, eff. June 29, 1988.