In this subtitle, “Commission” means the Maryland Commission for Women.

There is a Maryland Commission for Women in the Department. The Commission shall report to the Governor and the General Assembly through the Secretary.

The Commission consists of 25 members appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate. Of the 25 members of the Commission: 12 shall be appointed from among applicants who have been nominated and recommended for appointment by organizations located in the State whose interests relate to the status of women; and 13 shall be appointed from among applicants applying on their own behalf. To the extent practicable, in making appointments under this section, the Governor shall ensure geographic diversity among the membership of the Commission. The term of a commissioner is 4 years. The terms of members are staggered as required by the terms provided for members of the Commission on October 1, 2007. A commissioner may not serve more than two consecutive terms. At the end of a term, a commissioner continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies. A commissioner who is appointed after a term has begun serves only for the rest of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies. A commissioner who fails to attend at least 50% of the regularly scheduled meetings of the Commission during any 12–month period shall be considered to have resigned. Commissioners are not entitled to receive compensation for their services.

The Commission shall elect a chair and a vice chair from among its members. The Commission may appoint any officers that it considers necessary.

The executive director of the Commission is not considered a special appointee. The executive director: shall be a merit employee of the Department; and is in the skilled service in the State Personnel Management System. The executive director is entitled to the compensation provided in the State budget.

The Commission shall: stimulate and encourage study and review of the status of women in the State; strengthen the conditions for women in society by directing critical attention to critical problems confronting women in their various roles; conduct research on issues that impact women and identify existing disparities; conduct studies and assist with programs, seminars, and conferences to raise public awareness about issues impacting women; support policies and programs that promote the well–being of women; raise public awareness of a wide range of issues affecting women, including economic security, life transitions, and women’s health; promote and assist statewide women’s organizations, local commissions for women, and local volunteer programs focused on improving conditions for women; advocate for legislation supporting women’s economic empowerment, women’s health, cultural development, social inclusion, and other policies that promote the equality and flourishing of all people; recommend strategies to reduce discrimination and increase opportunities for women in employment, education, the law, State government, and elected and appointed positions across professions and within society; support partner organization programs on career development, financial wellness, and violence prevention; secure appropriate recognition of women’s accomplishments and contributions to the State; and inform the executive and legislative branches of government on issues concerning women, including by offering testimony on these issues before legislative and administrative bodies. The Commission may: act as a clearinghouse for activities to avoid duplication of effort; and make surveys and appoint advisory committees in all fields affecting the lives of women in the State, including education, social services, labor laws and employment policies, law enforcement, health and safety, new and expanded services, legal rights, family relations, human relations, and volunteer services. Through the Secretary, the Commission shall submit an annual report including recommendations based on the Commission’s studies to the Governor and, subject to § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, to the General Assembly. The Commission may not adopt regulations.

Each executive unit of the State shall cooperate fully with the Commission in the performance of the Commission’s duties.

Subject to the approval of the Secretary, the Commission may accept for the purposes of this subtitle: federal funds granted by Congress or executive order; and private donations from individuals, organizations, or foundations. The acceptance and use of federal funds does not commit State funds or obligate the General Assembly to continue the purposes for which the federal funds are granted. The Department shall include the Commission in its annual budget.