In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated. “Commission” means the Government Efficiency Commission. “Department” has the meaning stated in § 8–506 of this article. “Independent unit” has the meaning stated in § 8–506 of this article.

There is a Government Efficiency Commission. The purpose of the Commission is to enhance government efficiency and economic competitiveness by monitoring efficiency in the processing of permits, licenses, and certificates. The Commission consists of the following members: one member of the Senate, appointed by the President of the Senate; one member of the House of Delegates, appointed by the Speaker of the House; the Secretary of Planning, or the Secretary’s designee; the Secretary of Housing and Community Development, or the Secretary’s designee; the Secretary of the Environment, or the Secretary’s designee; the Special Secretary of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs, or the Special Secretary’s designee; the Secretary of Commerce, or the Secretary’s designee; the Secretary of Transportation, or the Secretary’s designee; the Secretary of Labor, or the Secretary’s designee; the Secretary of Health, or the Secretary’s designee; the Secretary of Information Technology, or the Secretary’s designee; the Chief Performance Officer; and three representatives of the State’s business community, appointed by the Governor. The Governor shall designate the chair of the Commission. The Office of the Governor shall provide staff for the Commission. A member of the Commission: may not receive compensation as a member of the Commission; but is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget. The Commission shall: compile and index the reports submitted under § 8–506 of this article; review statutory and regulatory provisions that may impact the efficiency of processing permits, licenses, and certificates; and make recommendations on: any factors impeding prompt and fair processing of permits, licenses, and certificates; strategies for how departments and independent units can improve permitting and licensing efficiency; and removing barriers that hinder individuals and businesses from receiving permits, licenses, and certificates. On or before December 1, 2024, and each year thereafter, the Commission shall submit a report on its findings and recommendations to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, the General Assembly.