(a)      (1)      The Maryland Transportation Commission shall study the entire transportation system of this State and regularly discuss with the Secretary any matter relating to this State's transportation system.

            (2)      Each of the seven regional members of the State Roads Commission, who serve as ex officio members of the Maryland Transportation Commission, shall:

                  (i)      Conduct a continuing survey of the secondary highways, as defined in § 8-101 of this article, in that member's region; and

                  (ii)      Report on the highway needs and problems of that region to the Maryland Transportation Commission.

            (3)      The Maryland Transportation Commission may request of the Secretary any information relating to the Department that is needed for the Commission's studies, surveys, and deliberations.

      (b)      The Commission shall advise and make recommendations to the Secretary and the heads of the units in the Department on all matters that concern transportation policy formation and program execution.