Permanent environmental justice advisory group

§ 48-0105. Permanent environmental justice advisory group.

1. The permanent environmental justice advisory group is hereby established in the department to consist of sixteen members, as follows:

(a) Five members shall be representatives of community-based organizations that advise or assist minority and low-income communities on environmental matters; and

(b) Four members shall be representatives of businesses that hold state-issued permits or otherwise operate subject to this chapter.

(c) One of the members appointed pursuant to each of paragraphs (a) and (b) of this subdivision shall be appointed by the temporary president of the senate, and one of the members appointed pursuant to each of paragraphs (a) and (b) of this subdivision shall be appointed by the speaker of the assembly. One member shall be appointed by the minority leader of the senate and one member shall be appointed by the minority leader of the assembly. The remaining members shall be representatives of state or national organizations promoting environmental conservation, researchers, educators and members of the general public. The other members appointed pursuant to this subdivision shall be appointed by the governor. The replacement of any member shall be in accordance with the provisions contained in this section for appointment of members.

2. (a) Each member of the advisory group shall serve for a term of four years or until his or her successor is appointed. A member appointed to fill a vacancy shall serve the remainder of the term of the member he or she is appointed to succeed. The members of the advisory group shall receive no compensation for their services but shall be reimbursed for their expenses actually and necessarily incurred in the performance of their duties hereunder.

(b) The advisory group shall select a chair from among the members. The advisory group shall meet as frequently as necessary, but not less than three times per year. Such meetings shall be held at such locations as the advisory group may determine. All such meetings shall be subject to the open meetings law. At least one meeting annually shall be held jointly with the environmental justice interagency coordinating council established pursuant to section 48-0111 of this article.