(a) (1) The Governor shall appoint the members of the Council in accordance with the federal Rehabilitation Act or any other federal law that modifies provisions for statewide independent living councils.

(2) A member of the Council shall reside in the State.

(3) In making appointments to the Council, the Governor shall consider:

(i) diversity based on sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, and economic status; and

(ii) representation from all geographic regions of the State.

(b) (1) (i) A member of the Council may not serve more than two consecutive full 3-year terms.

(ii) In the event of a vacancy on the Council:

1. the Council may continue to execute its duties; and

2. the Governor shall appoint a member of the Council in accordance with subsection (a) of this section.

(iii) A member appointed to fill a vacancy shall serve only for the balance of the remaining term at the time of appointment.

(2) The Governor may remove an appointed member for incompetence, misconduct, or failure to perform the duties of the position.

(3) Each year the Council shall elect a chair from among its members.

(4) A member of the Council:

(i) may not receive compensation as a member of the Council; but

(ii) is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.

(c) The Council may act with an affirmative vote of a majority of its members.