(a) On or before September 30, 1991, the Commissioner of Developmental Services shall adopt regulations, in accordance with the provisions of chapter 54, establishing (1) criteria for (A) determining eligibility for services provided by the department, (B) determining which individuals shall receive a specific service, and (C) selecting private sector service providers, and (2) uniform procedures to be used by the regional offices in determining which individuals shall receive services and in selecting private sector service providers. Such procedures shall specify the decision-making authority of the department’s central office and the regional offices and set parameters within which each shall operate.

(b) Each regional office, following a format developed by the department’s central office and taking into account the regulations developed by the commissioner, shall prepare a written protocol to be used in determining which individuals shall receive services and in selecting service providers. The protocol shall be approved by the commissioner.