There is created the State Board of Social Work Examiners to be composed of seven members appointed by the Governor, with the advice and consent of the Senate, including one lay member, two licensed baccalaureate social workers, three licensed master social workers, and one licensed independent social worker. All members must be residents of the state and the social workers must have been in the active practice of social work for at least five years prior to appointment. The terms of the members are for four years and until their successors are appointed and qualify. Members of the board are eligible for reappointment but may not serve more than two consecutive terms. The board may employ such staff, pursuant to Section 40-73-15, as the Director of the Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulations deems necessary to carry out the duties and functions of the board. The board is responsible for examining applicants for social work licenses, investigating complaints, and investigating and prosecuting violations of this chapter. The board may promulgate regulations to carry out the provisions of this chapter. The Governor may remove a member who is guilty of continued neglect of his duties or who is incompetent or unprofessional. No member may be removed without an opportunity to refute the charges filed against him. He must be given a copy of the charges at the time they are filed. Vacancies on the board must be filled by appointment by the Governor for the unexpired portion of the term.