1. There is hereby established in the Missouri department of economic development the “Office of Military Advocate”, for the purpose of advocating for the military services and military bases in Missouri, creating a long-term plan on military sustainability, and helping to fulfill the statutory mission of the Missouri military preparedness and enhancement commission. The military advocate shall report directly to the director of the department of economic development and will provide support and coordination to the Missouri military preparedness and enhancement commission.

2. The office shall be administered by the military advocate who shall be appointed by the governor with the advice and consent of the senate. The military advocate shall hold office for a term of six years and shall continue to hold the office until a successor has been duly appointed. The department of economic development shall provide administrative support and staff as deemed necessary to assist the military advocate and to fulfill the statutory mission of the Missouri military preparedness and enhancement commission.