(a) There is created a state board to be known and designated as the board of funeral directors and embalmers for this state. The board shall consist of seven (7) members who shall possess good moral character, shall be residents of the state and shall be appointed by the governor. Four (4) of the members shall be licensed as both funeral directors and embalmers and two (2) of the members shall be licensed as funeral directors, embalmers, or both, all of whom shall possess a minimum of five (5) consecutive years' experience in this state immediately preceding their appointment. At least one (1) member may be appointed from lists of qualified nominees submitted by interested funeral director and embalmer groups including, but not limited to, the Tennessee Funeral Directors Association. At least one (1) member may be appointed from lists of qualified nominees submitted by interested funeral director and mortician groups including, but not limited to, the Tennessee state funeral directors and morticians association. The governor shall consult with such interested groups to determine qualified persons to fill the positions. One (1) of the seven (7) members serving on the board shall be a person who is not engaged in the business of a funeral director or embalmer or otherwise commercially associated with any funeral establishment. There shall be at least two (2) members but no more than three (3) members from each grand division. In making appointments to the board, the governor shall strive to ensure that at least one (1) person serving on the board is sixty (60) years of age or older.
(b) Each person appointed to the board by the governor serves as a member of the board for a period of four (4) years or until a successor is appointed and qualified. Terms begin on January 1st and terminate on December 31st.
(c) Vacancies occurring on the board must be filled in accordance with this section for the balance of the unexpired term.
(d) [Deleted by 2025 amendment.]