The legislature declares that it is the public policy of this state to insure equal opportunity for all of its citizens. The legislature finds that, for economic, social, and historical reasons, a disproportionate number of African Americans find themselves disadvantaged or isolated from the benefits of equal opportunity. The legislature believes that it is the duty of this state to improve the well-being of African Americans by enabling them to participate fully in all fields of endeavor and by assisting them in obtaining governmental services. The legislature further finds that the development of public policy and the delivery of governmental services to meet the special needs of African Americans can be improved by establishing a focal point in state government for the interests of African American citizens. Therefore, the legislature deems it necessary to establish in statute the commission on African American affairs to further these purposes.

The Washington state commission on African American affairs is created. The commission shall be administered by an executive director, who shall be appointed by, and serve at the pleasure of, the governor. The governor shall set the salary of the executive director. The executive director shall employ the staff of the commission.

The commission shall consist of nine members, appointed by the governor. The commission shall make recommendations to the governor on appointment of the chair of the commission. The governor shall appoint the chair of the commission. To the extent practicable, appointments to the commission shall be made to achieve a balanced representation based on African American population distribution within the state, geographic considerations, sex, age, and occupation. Members shall serve three-year terms. However, of the initial appointees, one-third shall serve three-year terms, one-third shall serve two-year terms, and one-third shall serve a one-year term. In the case of a vacancy, appointment shall be for the remainder of the unexpired term. No member shall serve more than two full consecutive terms. Members shall be reimbursed for travel expenses incurred in the performance of their duties in accordance with RCW 43.03.050 and 43.03.060. Five members shall constitute a quorum for the purposes of conducting business.

The commission shall have the following powers and duties:

(1) Examine and define issues pertaining to the rights and needs of African Americans, and make recommendations to the governor and state agencies for changes in programs and laws.

(2) Advise the governor and state agencies on the development and implementation of policies, plans, and programs that relate to the special needs of African Americans.

(3) Advise the legislature on issues of concern to the African American community.

(4) Establish relationships with state agencies, local governments, and private sector organizations that promote equal opportunity and benefits for African Americans.

(5) Receive gifts, grants, and endowments from public or private sources that are made for the use or benefit of the commission and expend, without appropriation, the same or any income from the gifts, grants, or endowments according to their terms.