(a) The Department of Public Health shall be the lead state agency for lead poisoning prevention in this state. The Commissioner of Public Health shall (1) identify the state and local agencies in this state with responsibilities related to lead poisoning prevention, and (2) schedule a meeting of such state agencies and representative local agencies at least once annually in order to coordinate lead poisoning prevention efforts in this state.

(b) The commissioner shall establish a lead poisoning prevention program to provide screening, diagnosis, consultation, inspection and treatment services, including, but not limited to, the prevention and elimination of lead poisoning through research, abatement, education and epidemiological and clinical activities. Such program shall include, but need not be limited to, the screening services provided pursuant to § 19a-111g.

(c) Within available appropriations, the commissioner may contract with individuals, groups or agencies for the provision of necessary services and enter into assistance agreements with municipalities, cities, boroughs or district departments of health or special service districts for the development and implementation of comprehensive lead poisoning prevention programs consistent with the provisions of sections 19a-110 to 19a-111c, inclusive.