(A) There is created the "ESTF Review Panel" that shall serve as an advisory panel to the department.

(B) The review panel shall consist of ten members, pursuant to the following:

Ask a legal question, get an answer ASAP!
Click here to chat with a lawyer about your rights.

(1) the Governor, or his designee, who shall serve as the chair of the panel;

(2) three members to be appointed by the Governor;

(3) one member appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives;

(4) one member appointed by the President of the Senate;

(5) one member appointed by the Chairman of the House of Representatives Education and Public Works Committee;

(6) one member appointed by the Chairman of the Senate Education Committee; and

(7) two parents of scholarship students to be appointed by the Governor.

(C) The review panel may advise the department on whether certain expenses meet the requirements to be considered a qualified expense under this chapter when requested by the department. The review panel periodically may make recommendations to the General Assembly about improving the program.

(D) Members shall serve at the pleasure of their appointing authority. In making appointments to the panel, the appointing authorities, as appropriate, shall consider legal, financial, accounting, and marketing experience and race, gender, and other demographic factors to ensure nondiscrimination, inclusion, and representation of all segments of the State to the greatest extent possible.

(E) Members may not receive mileage or per diem.