The board shall secure such medical, investigatory and other service and advice as is necessary to carry out the purpose of this article. Notwithstanding Section 31529, the board may contract with an attorney in private practice for the legal services and advice necessary to carry out the purpose of this article. Notwithstanding Section 31530, the board may contract with a physician in private practice for the medical advice necessary to carry out the purpose of this article. It shall pay for such services and advice such compensation as it deems reasonable.

(Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 186, Sec. 16. (SB 634) Effective January 1, 2022.)