(a) The executive commissioner may contract with an entity to:
(1) conduct local forums throughout this state to solicit input on and discuss policies regarding aging-related issues, including issues that are affected by the demographic and geographic diversity of the aging population in this state;
(2) provide analysis, education, and research services with respect to aging-related issues; and
(3) identify problems encountered by the aging population in this state and develop and recommend to the executive commissioner and the legislature solutions to those problems.
(b) If a contract entered into under this section includes a provision that allows a person performing duties under the contract on behalf of the entity to receive a per diem for days spent performing those duties and to be reimbursed for travel expenses incurred in performing those duties, the per diem and reimbursement for travel expenses incurred must be paid at the same rate set in the General Appropriations Act for state employees.