(1) The department, in consultation and cooperation with the commission, shall conduct toxicological studies on a selected sample of Vietnam-era veterans to establish their exposure to agent orange or a chemical agent. In conducting the studies, the department shall analyze appropriate specimens for dioxin in combination with a review of Vietnam-era veterans' military service locations. The department shall obtain prior written consent from each Vietnam-era veteran to be studied under this section. The department shall compile and evaluate information obtained from these studies into a report, and shall submit the report to the commission for review and publication.

    (2) The department shall gather information on the physical health of study participants and their families to the extent the department considers necessary.