The state hospitals may manufacture supplies, materials, and assisting devices which are for the benefit of individuals with disabilities who otherwise would not have access to those articles, or which are necessary or required to be used in any of the state hospitals, and which can be economically manufactured therein. The necessary cost and expense of providing for and conducting the manufacture of such supplies and materials shall be paid in the same manner as other expenses of the hospitals. No hospital shall enter into or engage in manufacturing any supplies or materials unless permission for the same is obtained from the State Department of Developmental Services. If, at any time, it appears to the department that the manufacture of any article is not being or cannot be economically carried on at a state hospital, the department may suspend or stop the manufacture of such article, and on receipt of a certified copy of the order directing the suspension or stopping of such manufacture, by the medical superintendent, the hospital shall cease from manufacturing such article.

(Amended by Stats. 1987, Ch. 1071, Sec. 1.)