(a) There is continued an eight member motorcycle safety awareness board consisting of four ex-officio members and four nongovernmental members. The ex-officio members are the motorcycle safety program coordinator, as appointed under section two of this article, or a designee; the superintendent of the State Police or a designee; the commissioner of the bureau of public health or a designee; and the commissioner of the Division of Tourism or a designee. The four nongovernmental members are a licensed motorcycle operator; a member of American bikers aimed toward education (ABATE) or the West Virginia confederation of motorcycle clubs; a licensed insurance agent who has a valid motorcycle endorsement who will be appointed for an initial term of two years; and, an owner of a motorcycle dealership or supplier of aftermarket nonfranchised motorcycle supplies who will be appointed for an initial term of three years. The motorcycle safety program coordinator shall serve as chair of the board. The nongovernmental members shall be appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate. The terms are for three years, except for the initial appointments which will be staggered according to the provisions of this article. Members may be reappointed to the board. Any nongovernmental member who is absent without good cause from three consecutive meetings of the board may be removed from the board and a new member appointed by the Governor.

(b) The board may recommend to the superintendent of the State Police types and makes of protective helmets, eye protection devices and equipment offered for sale, purchased or used by any person. The board may make recommendations to the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles regarding the use of the moneys in the motorcycle safety fund created under section seven of this article. The board shall report annually to the Legislature on or before the first day of each regular legislative session.

(c) The appointed members shall serve without compensation, however, members are entitled to reimbursement of travel and other necessary expenses actually incurred while engaged in legitimate board activities in accordance with the guidelines of the travel management office of the Department of Administration or successor agency.