There is created within the legislative branch of state government a bipartisan legislative council to consist of 6 members of the house to be appointed by the speaker, not less than 2 of whom shall be members of the minority party, and 6 members of the senate to be appointed by the majority leader, not less than 2 of whom shall be members of the minority party. The speaker and senate majority leader may each appoint 3 alternates to the council who may vote in the absence of any of the regular 6 council members. The majority and minority alternates shall only vote in place of an absent member of the same party. Members and alternates shall be appointed or removed in the same manner as members of standing committees are appointed or removed in each house. Vacancies shall be filled in the same manner as original appointments. Members shall serve terms concurrent with their term in the legislature and until their successors are appointed and qualified. Members of the council may be reimbursed for expenses incurred in the administration of their duties.