(a) In making determinations on requests for approval of AIDS-related drugs, as defined in subdivision (b), in accordance with Section 111550, or for exemptions from these requirements, for purposes of investigations of these drugs, pursuant to Section 111595, the department shall employ persons to conduct reviews of requests for drug marketing approval for AIDS-related drugs, or exemptions from the approval requirements as specified in that section. The AIDS Vaccine Research and Development Advisory Committee shall review and advise the department in its actions under this section. Where necessary, the department shall enter into contracts with appropriate and qualified persons or entities for the review of these requests, including persons with significant experience in conducting or reviewing clinical trials of drugs or physicians with significant experience in treating AIDS patients.
No person may contract with the department for the review of a request under this subdivision if the person has a financial interest or a conflict of interest involving the drug being evaluated.