Tennessee Code Title 58. Military Affairs, Emergencies and Civil Defense § 58-9-101

(a) There is created the west Tennessee seismic safety commission, which shall be attached administratively to the University of Memphis.

(b) The commission shall consist of twelve (12) members, to be appointed as follows: two (2) members chosen by the speaker of the house of representatives, two (2) members chosen by the speaker of the senate and eight (8) members appointed by the governor. The members shall include persons who represent the following professional areas: architecture, fire protection, public utilities, engineering, geology or seismology, local government, insurance, business, emergency health services, nonprofit emergency assistance, local education and emergency management.

(c) The commission shall annually elect a chair and vice chair from its membership. A quorum shall consist of seven (7) members. All commission members shall be residents of the state and shall have reasonable knowledge of issues relating to earthquakes.

(d) The term of office for each member of the commission shall be four (4) years, except that of the initial appointments, six (6) members shall be appointed for terms of two (2) years and six (6) members shall be appointed for terms of four (4) years. Any member may be removed from office by the governor for cause. A member is eligible for reappointment. If there is a vacancy for any cause, the governor shall make an appointment for the unexpired term.

(e) Each member of the commission shall serve without compensation, but shall receive compensation for travel expenses. All reimbursement for travel expenses shall be in accordance with the comprehensive travel regulations promulgated by the department of finance and administration and approved by the attorney general and reporter.

(f) The center for earthquake research and information, created by § 49-8-602, is authorized and directed to provide any information or services requested by the commission.