52-3-103. Designation of area agencies. (1) The department of public health and human services may designate as an area agency in a geographical area an entity that demonstrates its ability to:

(a) develop and administer an area plan for a comprehensive and coordinated system of services; and

(b) serve as the advocate and focal point for older persons in the planning and service area.

(2) An entity may be but is not limited to:

(a) an established office on aging that operates within the geographical area;

(b) an office or agency of a unit of general purpose local government, except a local office of public assistance;

(c) any combination of offices or units of general purpose local governments; or

(d) any other public or private, nonprofit agency, except a regional or local agency of the state.