(a)

(1) The commission may also establish and appoint one (1) or more advisory boards or advisory committees to assist the commission in the performance of its duties.

(2) The commission shall establish a historic cemetery advisory committee composed of seven (7) members. The committee may include up to three (3) members of the commission and must include at least one (1) non-commission member with expertise in each of the following areas: archeology, cemetery or land law, and historic preservation. The commission shall strive to ensure that the membership of the committee appropriately reflects the racial and geographic diversity of the state. The committee shall study protections and preservation efforts for cemeteries of historical importance and the need, if any, to enhance protections and preservation efforts. By December 1, 2020, and every five (5) years thereafter, the committee shall issue a report, including any recommendations for legislative action, to the commission. The commission may adopt the report or return the report to the committee for further consideration. If adopted by the commission, the report shall be posted on the website of the commission.

(b) The commission is authorized, out of any funds appropriated to the commission, to pay the actual expenses of such board or committee members incurred while on official business.

(c) 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.