The Act outlines specific duties of the Commission primarily focused upon the development and implementation of an annual work plan. The Commission must develop an annual proposed work plan that solicits project proposals from local governments and other entities and organizations; and provides for a comprehensive work plan for rural and infrastructure development and necessary job training in the area covered under the work plan.

This proposed plan is submitted to the Federal Co-Chairman for review and then publishes the work plan in the Federal Register, with notice and a 30 day opportunity for public comment.

The Federal Co-Chairperson takes into consideration the information, views, and comments received from interested parties through the public review and comment process, and consults with appropriate Federal officials in Alaska including but not limited to Bureau of Indian Affairs, Economic Development Administration, and Rural Development Administration.

Federal Co-Chairman then provides the plan to the Secretary of Commerce who ultimately will approve, disapprove, or partially approve the work plan that is the subject of the review; and issues the Commission a notice of the approval, disapproval, or partial approval. The Denali Commission meets at the call of the Federal Co-Chairman at least 2 times each year.