Sec. 01.01.2012.11. Governor's Commission on Caribbean Affairs

A. There is a Governor’s Commission on Caribbean Affairs in the Governor’s Office of Community Initiatives as described in Executive Order 01.01.2007.25.

B. The Commission shall consist of the following members:

(1) Nine members appointed by the Governor. The members appointed by the Governor shall reflect the diverse ancestry and national origins of the Caribbean community of Maryland, shall provide representation from different geographic regions in the State, and may also include experts on issues important to the State’s Caribbean population.

(2) Appointed members shall serve at the pleasure of the Governor for up to two consecutive four-year terms.

(3) The Governor shall designate a Chairperson from among the members of the Commission. The Chairperson shall serve at the pleasure of the Governor. The Chairperson shall be responsible for creating subcommittees to carry out the functions of the Commission.

(4) In the event of a vacancy on the Commission, the Governor shall appoint a successor.

C. Procedures.

(1) The Commission shall meet at the call of the Chairperson at least four times each year. Notice of meetings shall be published to encourage public attendance.

(2) A majority of Commission members shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of any business.

(3) The Commission may adopt such other procedures and by-laws as may be necessary to ensure the orderly transaction of business.

(4) By June 30 of each year, the Commission shall submit an annual report to the Governor detailing its activities in the preceding calendar year, along with any appropriate recommendations.

D. Expenses. Members of the Commission may not receive any compensation for their services but may be reimbursed for reasonable expenses incurred in the performance of their duties in accordance with the Standard State Travel Regulations and as provided in the State budget.

E. Operational Support. The Governor’s Office of Community Initiatives shall provide support as needed to the Commission.

F. Duties. The Commission shall have the following duties and responsibilities:

(1) Serve as an advisory body to the Governor and agencies within the Executive Department on matters relating to the Caribbean population of Maryland, including matters relating to economic, workforce, and business development;

(2) Identify needs or problems affecting the Caribbean population and develop appropriate responses and strategies;

(3) Conduct outreach to Caribbean groups and communities in the State and communicate information to them concerning public and private programs that are beneficial to their interests;

(4) Review and comment on any proposed federal, State, or local legislation, regulations, policies, or programs that affect the Caribbean population of Maryland;

(5) Generally comment and make appropriate recommendations on matters affecting the health, safety, and welfare of the Caribbean population of Maryland; and

(6) Perform any other duties that may be requested by the Governor.

Effective date: June 6, 2012