(a) As used in this section, “department” means the Department of Developmental Services, the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services or the Department of Public Health, and “provider” means any independent contractor or private agency under contract with the department to provide services.

(b) Notwithstanding any provision of part II of this chapter or any regulation adopted or advisory opinion issued under said part, the department may invite a provider to participate in any informal policy-making committee, task force, work group or other ad hoc committee established by the department, and such participation shall not be deemed to be lobbying for purposes of said part.