The Board consists of the following five members: a chair appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate, representing the public; two members chosen from a list of candidates submitted by each exclusive representative, appointed by the Governor with due regard for any candidates who have majority or plurality support from exclusive representatives, with the advice and consent of the Senate; and two members chosen from a list of candidates submitted by public employers, appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate. Each member of the Board: must have knowledge of and experience with labor law, labor mediation, or labor negotiations; may not be officers or employees of a public employer, or of an employee organization; and must be known for objective and independent judgment. Before taking office, each member shall take the oath required by Article I, § 9 of the Maryland Constitution. The term of a member is 6 years. The terms of members are staggered as required by the terms provided for members of the Board on July 1, 2023. A vacancy shall be filled for an unexpired term in the same manner as an original appointment. At the end of a term, a member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies. A member who is appointed after a term has begun serves only for the rest of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies. The Governor may remove a member only for incompetence or misconduct. In making appointments to the Board, the Governor shall ensure, to the extent practicable, that the ratio of male to female members and the racial makeup of the Board is reflective of the general population of the State.