§ 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.