a. Whenever a new public building is to be constructed at the expense and for the use of the State, the contracting officer shall, together with the architect whom he has engaged, consult with the council regarding the elements of fine arts to be included or incorporated in the design of such building or buildings.

b. As a result of such consultations the architect may incorporate the recommendations of the council in the design of such building or buildings. Expenditures for recommendations concerning the inclusion of artistic designs in State buildings shall be approved by the State House Commission.

c. The total estimated cost of the fine arts elements included in such plans and specifications for a public building or group of public buildings for the purpose of implementing the design thereof in accordance with the purposes of this act shall not exceed 1 1/2 % of the total estimated cost of the construction of such building or group of buildings.

L.1978, c. 117, s. 3.