(a) There is hereby created the Tennessee historical commission, which shall be composed of the governor or the governor's designee, the state historian, the state archaeologist, the commissioner of environment and conservation or the commissioner's designee, and the state librarian and archivist, all of whom shall be voting ex officio members; and twenty-four (24) members appointed by the governor. In making appointments to the commission, the governor shall strive to ensure that at least one (1) person serving on the commission is sixty (60) years of age or older and that at least one (1) person serving on the commission is a member of a racial minority. At least three (3) persons serving on the commission shall have an academic background in history or historic preservation, or both, preferably a master's degree. In making the appointments, there should be a conscientious effort by the appointing authority to ensure that persons meeting these criteria are inclusive of African-Americans and of Native American ancestry.

(b) In case of death or resignation of any appointed member of the commission, then such member's successor shall be appointed by the governor for a term of five (5) years from the date of the successor's appointment.

(c) Members of the commission appointed pursuant to this section shall be equally divided among the three (3) grand divisions of the state.

(d) Members who have been granted the title “member emeritus” by an action of the commission shall retain the same rights and privileges of other members, except the right to vote at meetings of the commission.

(e) All members of the commission may be paid necessary expenses while engaged in the work of the commission. All reimbursement for travel expenses shall be in accordance with the comprehensive travel regulations as promulgated by the department of finance and administration and approved by the attorney general and reporter.