(1) There is hereby established within the division of professions and occupations of the department of regulatory agencies the state plumbing board. The board shall exercise its powers and perform its duties and functions in the department of regulatory agencies as if it were transferred to the department by a type 1 transfer, as such transfer is defined in the "Administrative Organization Act of 1968", article 1 of title 24, C.R.S.

(2) (a) The board shall consist of seven appointed members as follows, one a journeyman plumber, one a master plumber, two engaged in the construction of residential or commercial buildings as plumbing contractors, one engaged in the construction of residential or commercial buildings as a general contractor, one a member or employee of a local government agency conducting plumbing inspections, and one appointed from the public at large. A representative of the department of public health and environment shall serve as an ex officio nonvoting member. At least one member shall be a resident of the western slope of the state, defined as that western part of the state separated from the eastern part of the state by the continental divide.

(b) A majority of the board shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of all business.

(3) (a) The governor, with power of removal, shall appoint the members of the board, subject to confirmation by the senate. Board members are appointed for four-year terms. Any vacancy occurring in the membership of the board shall be filled by the governor by appointment for the unexpired term of such member.

(b) The governor may remove any member of the board for misconduct, incompetence, or neglect of duty.

(4) No major political party shall be represented on the board by more than one member more than the other major political party.

(5) This article is repealed, effective September 1, 2024. Prior to such repeal, the state plumbing board, including provisions related to qualified state institutions of higher education, shall be reviewed as provided for in section 24-34-104, C.R.S.