Subject to subsection (b) of this section, on written request of an entity subject to this title, the appropriate advisory body shall issue an advisory opinion regarding the application of this title. On written request of any other entity, the appropriate advisory body may issue an advisory opinion. The appropriate advisory body may issue informal advice instead of an advisory opinion. Except as provided in §§ 5–501.1 and 5–502(f) of this title, information related to informal advice provided under this subsection shall remain confidential and is not subject to the requirements of § 5–303 of this subtitle.

The Ethics Commission shall issue an advisory opinion required under § 5–301(a) of this subtitle not more than 60 days after receiving a request, or more promptly if circumstances require.

Each advisory opinion shall be: in writing; and published in the Maryland Register, subject to subsection (b) of this section. Except as provided in §§ 5–501.1 and 5–502(f) of this title, before an advisory opinion may be made public, the advisory body shall delete: the name of the entity that is the subject of the opinion; and to the fullest extent possible, any other information that may identify the entity. The identity of the entity that is the subject of the opinion may not be revealed.

If the Ethics Commission issues an advisory opinion about a State official of the Legislative Branch as to a question arising under Subtitle 6 of this title, and if requested by the State official, the Joint Ethics Committee shall issue an advisory opinion on the matter in accordance with this subtitle. The opinion of the Joint Ethics Committee prevails to the extent of any inconsistency.