In addition to duties enumerated in section 68-1104, the committee shall advise the department regarding:

(1) The state plan on aging as developed and prepared by the department;

(2) Policies adopted by the department;

(3) The needs of the state's older individuals;

(4) The development of the state plan and policies which affect the state's older individuals;

(5) Such rules, regulations, and standards as may be adopted by the department; and

(6) A community aging services budget for submission to the Legislature by the department.

The committee shall also act as a panel for the hearing and resolution of any appeal requested by an area agency on aging should the department disapprove the area plan and budget or amendments as submitted.