(1) The livestock identification advisory committee is established in RCW 16.57.015 for the purpose of advising the director regarding:

(a) Livestock identification programs administered under chapter 16.57 RCW and these rules;

(b) Inspection fees; and

(c) Related licensing fees.

(2) The committee is appointed by the director and is composed of twelve voting members as follows: Two beef producers, two livestock market owners, two horse producers, two dairy producers, two cattle feeders, and two meat processors.

Organizations representing the groups represented on the committee may submit nominations for these appointments to the director for the director's consideration. No more than two members at the time of their appointment or during their term may reside in the same county. Members may be reappointed and vacancies must be filled in the same manner as original appointments are made.

(3) The committee shall elect a member to serve as committee chair. The committee must meet at least twice a year. The committee shall meet at the call of the director, chair, or a majority of the committee. A quorum of the committee consists of a majority of members. If a member has not been designated for a position, that position may not be counted for purposes of determining a quorum. A member may appoint an alternate who meets the same qualifications as the member to serve during the member's absence. The director may remove a member from the committee if that member has two or more unexcused absences during a single calendar year.

(4) Livestock identification advisory committee members must be residents of the state of Washington and actively engaged in the industry they represent.