First established in 1965, the Maryland Commission for Women was set in state law in 1971.  An office within the Department of Human Resources, the Commission is a 25-member advisory board whose duties outlined in its enabling legislation include:  study the status of women in our state, recommend methods of overcoming discrimination, recognize women's accomplishments and contributions, and provide informed advice to the executive and legislative branches of government on the issues concerning the women of our state. Commissioners are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor, with confirmation by the Maryland State Senate, and serve without compensation.