As used in this chapter: 1. "Brain injury" means damage to the brain or the coverings of the brain which produces an altered mental state and results in a decrease in cognitive, behavioral, emotional, or physical functioning. The term does not include an insult of a degenerative or congenital nature. 2. "Department" means the department of health and human services.
50-06.4-02. Department to be lead agency - Cooperation of other agencies - Joint meeting. The department shall act as lead agency in the state for the purpose of coordinating services to individuals with brain injury. At least annually the department shall call a joint meeting of the adjutant general, the department of veterans' affairs, and the superintendent of public instruction to discuss the provision of services to individuals with brain injury. State agencies and political subdivision agencies shall cooperate with the department to permit the department to efficiently coordinate services to individuals with brain injury while avoiding duplication of services. Neither this chapter, nor any activity undertaken by the department under this chapter, may be construed as creating a right to any benefit or service not specifically required to be granted as a condition of the receipt of grants of federal funds.