20 LAWS OF MARYLAND. [CH. 1

examinations under the supervision of the Board to deter-
mine the classification of applicants for the positions so
classified, and, except for temporary appointments, not to
exceed one year in duration, shall appoint its personnel
on the basis of efficiency and fitness as determined in such
examinations. The Board shall not appoint or employ
any person who is an officer or committee member of any
political party organization or who holds or is a candidate
for any elective public office. The Board shall establish
and enforce fair and reasonable regulations for appoint-
ments, promotions and demotions based upon ratings of
efficiency and fitness and for terminations for cause. Pro-
vided however that the appointments of executive directors,
experts and accountants may be made without reference
to the aforegoing requirements as to examinations and
classification of positions. The Board and the executive
directors may delegate to any such person so appointed
such power and authority as is deemed reasonable and
proper for the effective administration of this article and
may in their discrimination bond any person handling
monies or signing checks hereunder.

(e) ADVISORY COUNCILS.

The Board shall appoint a State advisory council and
local advisory councils, composed in each case of an equal
number of employer representatives and employee repre-
sentatives who may fairly be regarded as representative
because of their vocation, employment, or affiliations, and
of such members representing the general public as the
Board may designate. Such councils shall aid the Board
in formulating policies and discussing problems related to
the administration of this Act and in assuring impartiality
and freedom from political influence in the solution of
such problems. Such advisory councils shall serve without
compensation, but shall be reimbursed for any necessary
expenses.

(f) EMPLOYMENT STABILIZATION.

The Board with the advice and aid of its advisory coun-
cils, shall take all appropriate steps to reduce and prevent
unemployment; to encourage and assist in the adoption of
practical methods of vocational training, retraining and
vocational guidance; to investigate, recommend, advise, and
assist in the establishment and operation, by municipalities,
counties, and the State, of reserves for public works to be
used in times of business depression and unemployment;