(

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. (b) “AIDS-related drug” means either of the following:

(1) A vaccine to protect against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.

(2) Antiviral agent, immune modulator, or other agent to be administered to persons who have been infected with HIV, to counteract the effects of this infection, or any drug to treat opportunistic infections associated with AIDS. (

c) The immunities provided for in Sections 818.4 and 821.6 of the Government Code shall apply whenever the department grants approval pursuant to

Section or an exemption from the approval requirements pursuant to

Section 111595, for an AIDS-related drug.