(A) There is created the South Carolina Board of Genetic Counselors, to license genetic counselors. The purpose of this board is to protect the public through the regulation of professionals who educate and communicate with the public regarding the human problems associated with the occurrence, or the risk of occurrence, of a genetic disorder in a family, including the provision of services to help an individual or family.(B)(1) The board must be composed of five members appointed by the Governor, one of whom must be a lay member from the State at large and four practicing genetic counselors. The board shall review and make determinations regarding all matters relating to genetic counselors including, but not limited to: (a) applications for licensure;(b) licensure renewal requirements;(c) disciplinary investigations or actions; and(d) promulgation of administrative regulations.(2) Members of the board shall serve three-year terms until their successors are appointed and qualify, except for initial appointments.(3) The chair of the board must be elected by a majority vote of the board members and must preside over meetings. Meetings must be held biennially. Additional meetings may be held at the call of the chair or upon the written request of three board members.(4) Initial appointments must be for staggered terms. Two members shall serve a three-year term, two members shall serve a two-year term, and one member shall serve a one-year term.(a) Initial genetic counselor members shall serve without a license until licenses become available.(b) Initial genetic counselor members must be ABGC certified for a minimum of five years.(5) Members of the board are entitled to per diem, subsistence, and mileage as provided by law for members of state boards, committees, and commissions.(6) A board member may be removed by the Governor for good cause or if he misses two consecutive committee meetings without good cause.(7) Upon the death, resignation, or removal of any member, the vacancy for the unexpired term must be filled by the Governor.Added by 2024 S.C. Acts, Act No. 187 (SB 241),s 1, eff. 5/21/2024.