599—1.3 (101C) Program and project development and implementation.
	 1.3(1) The council shall develop programs and projects, including programs to enhance consumer and employee safety and training, and enter into agreements for administering such programs and projects as provided in this chapter; provide for research and development of clean and efficient propane utilization equipment; inform and educate the public about safety and other issues associated with the use of propane; and develop programs and projects that provide assistance to persons who are eligible for the low-income home energy assistance program.
	 1.3(2) The programs and projects shall be developed to attain equitable geographic distribution of their benefits to the fullest extent practicable. The council shall coordinate its programs and projects with propane industry trade associations and others as the council deems appropriate to provide efficient delivery of services and to avoid unnecessary duplication of activities. The council shall give priority to the development of programs and projects related to research and development, safety, education, and training.
	 1.3(3) At the beginning of each fiscal year, the council shall prepare a budget plan for the next fiscal year, including the probable cost of all programs, projects, and contracts to be undertaken. The council shall submit the proposed budget to the fire marshal for review and comment. The fire marshal may recommend appropriate programs, projects, and activities to be undertaken by the council.
	 1.3(4) The council shall also perform the functions required of a state organization under the federal Propane Education and Research Act of 1996, be the repository of funds received under that Act, and separately account for those funds. The council shall coordinate the operation of the program with the federal council as contemplated by 15 U.S.C. Section 6405. These rules shall be administered and construed as complementary to the federal Propane Education and Research Act of 1996, 15 U.S.C. Section 6401 et seq.	These rules shall not be construed to preempt or supersede any other program relating to propane education and research organized and operated under the laws of this state.