(a) Funds appropriated or otherwise available to the executive branch of government of this state may be expended for the purpose of carrying out this article.

(b) The members of the Education Commission of the States representing this state and the members of the Georgia Education Council shall serve without pay; provided, however, that they shall be reimbursed, from funds appropriated therefor, for their reasonable and necessary travel, meals, lodging, and other necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their official duties.