A. The commission shall create an occupational safety and health advisory committee to assist the commission in drafting standards and regulations. The committee may be asked to perform other functions as may be necessary. The committee shall be appointed by the commission and shall be composed of a reasonably balanced representation of regulated industries, including agriculture, and labor and other persons knowledgeable in safety and health and shall serve at the will of the commission. The commission may establish other committees as it deems necessary. The advisory committees may be paid their reasonable and necessary travel and other expenses in accordance with standard travel regulations.

B. The director shall be an ex officio member of any advisory committee established pursuant to this section.