SECTION 6B. Equine advisory committee; members; terms

There shall be in the department a committee to be known as the equine advisory committee which shall consist of seven members to be appointed by the commissioner. Two members shall be nominated by the Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation, one by the Massachusetts Association of Stable Owners, Operators and Instructors, one by the Massachusetts Horsemen's Council, one by the Yankee Draft Horse Association, and one each representing the standardbred and thoroughbred breeding industry in the commonwealth. Of the members first appointed hereunder, one shall be appointed for a term of one year, two for a term of two years, one for a term of three years, two for a term of four years, and one for a term of five years, and until the qualification of their respective successors. Upon the expiration of the term of any member, his successor shall be appointed in like manner for a term of five years. The committee shall elect its own chairman and clerk, and shall keep accurate records of its meetings. The members of the committee shall serve without compensation and shall meet at least annually to advise the commissioner on matters related to the viability of equine agriculture in the commonwealth.