(a)      The Board shall make recommendations to the Secretary on the operation and administration of the Department as the Board considers necessary or desirable.

      (b)      If an advisory board for the Department is not created, the Board shall advise the Secretary on all matters affecting the Department that the Secretary submits to the Board for its consideration.

      (c)      Except as expressly provided otherwise, the Board shall hear and determine any appeal from:

            (1)      A decision of the Secretary or any unit in the Department in a contested case that is subject to judicial review under § 10-215 of the State Government Article;

            (2)      A decision of the Secretary or any unit in the Department that is subject to judicial review under any provision of law other than §§ 10-125, 10-128 and 10-215 of the State Government Article; and

            (3)      An action of or inaction by any unit in the Department for which the Secretary, by rule or regulation, provides for review by the Board.

      (d)      The Board shall report at least annually to the Secretary. Its report shall include a summary by categories of appeals heard and determinations made.

      (e)      A Board member may not vote or otherwise participate in the Board's consideration of any matter in which the member has a direct or indirect private interest.