2005 West Virginia Code - §22A-2A-304. — Nomination and appointment of members.

§22A-2A-304. Nomination and appointment of members.
(a) Prior to the appointment of a person to the commission, the governor shall request the nomination of a candidate for the appointment. If the position is to be filled by a person who can reasonably be expected to represent the viewpoint or interests of underground coal operators in this state, the governor shall request the nomination from the major trade association representing underground coal operators in this state. If the position is to be filled by a person who can reasonably be expected to represent the viewpoint or interests of working miners in this state, the governor shall request the nomination from the highest ranking officer of the major employee organization representing coal miners in this state.
(b) The governor shall appoint a member to serve for the term for which the person was nominated, and until his or her successor has been nominated and appointed: Provided, That if a successor is not appointed within one hundred twenty days after the expiration of a member's term, a vacancy is deemed to exist. The governor may reject a nomination and decline to appoint a nominee only if the person does not have the qualifications, integrity and responsibility necessary to enable the person to perform his or her duties as a member of the commission.
(c) Appointments to fill vacancies on the commission shall be for the unexpired term of the member to be replaced.