(1) To help implement, monitor, and enforce the goals of this Act, there is created the Business Enterprise Council for Minorities, Women, and Persons with Disabilities, hereinafter referred to as the Council, composed of the Chairperson of the Commission on Equity and Inclusion, the Secretary of Human Services and the Directors of the Department of Human Rights, the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, the Department of Central Management Services, the Department of Transportation and the Capital Development Board, or their duly appointed representatives, with the Comptroller, or his or her designee, serving as an advisory member of the Council. Ten individuals representing businesses that are minority-owned, women-owned, or owned by persons with disabilities, 2 individuals representing the business community, and a representative of public institutions of higher education shall be appointed by the Governor. These members shall serve 2-year terms and shall be eligible for reappointment. Any vacancy occurring on the Council shall also be filled by the Governor. Any member appointed to fill a vacancy occurring prior to the expiration of the term for which his or her predecessor was appointed shall be appointed for the remainder of such term. Members of the Council shall serve without compensation but shall be reimbursed for any ordinary and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties. The Chairperson of the Commission shall serve as the Council chairperson and shall select, subject to approval of the Council, a Secretary responsible for the operation of the program who shall serve as the Division Manager of the Business Enterprise for Minorities, Women, and Persons with Disabilities Division of the Commission on Equity and Inclusion.
The Director of each State agency and the chief executive officer of each public institution of higher education shall appoint a liaison to the Council. The liaison shall be responsible for submitting to the Council any reports and documents necessary under this Act.