(a) The Department of General Services and all other affected state agencies shall cooperate with the State Department of Social Services and the California Health and Human Services Agency Data Center to expedite and achieve timely completion and review of the Technical Architecture Alternatives Analysis Plan and all procurements related to child welfare services.

(b) Notwithstanding § 11040 of the Government Code, the State Department of Social Services may obtain outside legal counsel to assist in negotiations for automation contracts related to child welfare services.

(c) The State Department of Social Services shall consult with stakeholders, including the County Welfare Directors Association, during the development of procurement and automation strategies related to child welfare services.

(Added by Stats. 2004, Ch. 229, Sec. 58.5. Effective August 16, 2004.)