Section 5701.903 - Health research program(a) Program establishment.--(1) There is established in the department a health research program which shall be known as the Commonwealth Universal Research Enhancement Program. Appropriations from the fund to the department shall be used to fund research projects and related infrastructure by eligible applicants. This includes:
(ii) clinical research; and(iii) health services research.(2) Funds appropriated for the program may be used to conduct peer reviews and performance reviews.(b) Advisory committee.--(1) There is hereby established in the department the Health Research Advisory Committee.(2) The committee is comprised of the following:(i) The secretary or a designee, who shall serve as chairperson.(ii) Four members appointed by the Governor.(iii) One member appointed by the President pro tempore of the Senate and one member appointed by the Minority Leader of the Senate.(iv) One member appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives and one member appointed by the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives.(3) Members appointed to the committee by the Governor must possess expertise in health care or research, with representation by institution-based research specialists, practicing clinicians, clinical investigators and public health professionals.(4) Terms are as follows: (i) The secretary shall serve ex officio.(ii) A member under paragraph (2)(ii) shall serve a term of six years.(iii) A member under paragraph (2)(iii) shall serve a term of four years but may be removed at the pleasure of the appointing authority.(iv) A member under paragraph (2)(iv) shall serve a term of two years but may be removed at the pleasure of the appointing authority.(v) An appointment to fill a vacancy shall be for the period of the unexpired term or until a successor is appointed and qualified.(5) The committee shall meet as needed, but at least twice a year, to fulfill the purposes provided for in this chapter. A majority of the members of the committee constitutes a quorum. A majority of the members of the committee has authority to act upon any matter properly before it. The committee is authorized to establish rules for its operation and shall hold public hearings, as necessary, to obtain public input and make recommendations to the department regarding research priorities, evaluation and accountability procedures, and related issues. Meetings of the committee shall be conducted under 65 Pa.C.S. Ch. 7 (relating to open meetings).(6) Members shall receive no payment for their services. Members who are not employees of State government shall be reimbursed for necessary and reasonable expenses incurred in the course of their official duties.2001, June 26, P.L. 755, No. 77, § 903, effective 7/1/2001.