The functions and duties of the Division of Consumer Advocacy are:

1. (1) To provide legal representation of the consumer interest before the state and federal regulatory agencies which undertake to fix rates or prices for consumer products or services or to enact regulations or establish policies related thereto and to provide legal representation of the consumer interest concerning Certificates of Need for health facilities and services, as required for an activity under Section 44-7-160, health care licensing procedures, and other health related-matters.
2. (2) To monitor existing regulations, rate structures and policies of that agency of special interest to consumers and report to the public through the news media proposed changes therein under consideration and the effect of those changes on the lives of the citizens of the State.
3. (3) The annual report required of the Commission on Consumer Affairs must include a report on the activities of the Division of Consumer Advocacy.
4. (4) To evaluate and act upon requests from consumers concerning the matters set forth in (1) and (2) above, except that any proceedings initiated by the advocate must be brought on behalf of the public at large and not for individuals; initiation or continuation of any proceedings must be at the sole discretion of the consumer advocate.