[§342F-3]  Duties, rules, powers, appointment of hearings officers.  (a)  In addition to any other power or duty prescribed by law and in this chapter, the director shall prevent, control, and abate noise pollution in the State.  In the discharge of this duty, the director may make, amend, and repeal state rules controlling and prohibiting noise pollution.  All rules shall be adopted pursuant to chapter 91.  Any person heard at the public hearing shall be given written notice of the action taken by the department with respect to the rules.

     (b)  In addition to other specific powers provided in this chapter, the director may appoint without regard to chapter 76, hearings officers to conduct public participation activities including public hearings and public informational meetings. [L 1989, c 212, pt of §3; am L 2000, c 253, §150]