(a)
Between January 1, 1996, and February 28, 1996, and in the same period each five years thereafter, or pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 78578, the director shall, by the public hearing procedure, and if appropriate, the review referendum procedure provided for in Sections 78585 and 78586, determine whether the council program provided for in this chapter shall continue in effect.
(b)
If the director finds from evidence received at the hearing that a substantial question exists as to whether the council program is contrary to or does not effectuate the declared purposes or provisions of this chapter or receives in writing a referendum petition with the signatures of 25 percent or more of the number of fishermen or receivers, as evidenced by receipts prepared under Section 8043 of the Fish and Game Code, the council program shall be submitted to referendum as provided in Section 78585.