In this subtitle, “Division” means the Division of Tourism, Film, and the Arts.

There is a Division of Tourism, Film, and the Arts in the Department.

With the approval of the Governor, the Secretary shall appoint a director of the Division. The director serves at the pleasure of the Secretary. Removal of the director by the Secretary is final. The director shall have demonstrated interest and experience in tourism, film, and the arts. The director shall operate the Division under the direction of the Secretary.

The director of the Division is entitled to the compensation provided in the State budget.

In accordance with the State budget, the director of the Division may employ a staff and retain professional consultants.

The Division shall: stimulate development of tourism business in the State; promote business and job opportunities in the State; encourage development of recreational areas and facilities; make the public aware of the State’s heritage and historical development; advertise and disseminate information about the State; encourage the promotion and development of amateur and professional sports in the State; encourage the advancement of and participation in the performing, visual, and creative arts; and administer those programs assigned to the Division by law or designated by the Secretary.

The Department shall submit an annual report to the General Assembly, in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, that summarizes the details of its activities regarding private sector cooperative marketing projects that directly enhance promotion of the State and the tourism industry and that are exempt from State procurement law under § 11–203(a)(1)(xi) of the State Finance and Procurement Article. The report required under subsection (a) of this section shall include the nonproprietary details of the activities of the private sector participants.