KRS 12.040: Heads of departments -- Appointment of executive directors by Governor.

(1) The heads of departments shall have direction and control of their respective

departments, and through their departments shall exercise the powers and perform

the duties vested in the departments under their direction and control. Except as

otherwise expressly provided by law, the heads of departments shall be appointed

by the Governor for terms not exceeding four (4) years on the basis of their merit

and fitness to perform the duties of their respective offices.

(2) Each department head shall maintain a pa ttern of organization capable of receiving

the attachment of administrative bodies that have functions related to the general

function of his department.

(3) Within the resources of his department, each department head shall provide

administrative bodies i n his department with such facilities and services as will

enable those bodies to carry out the functions with which they are charged.

(4) The heads of all departments shall exercise supervision over the personnel and

financial records of their respective departments.

(5) In case of a vacancy or in the absence or disability of the head of a department, the

Governor may authorize the head of a division or other administrative officer to act

as head of the department.

(6) When required by statute to appoint t he head of an office, the Governor shall

appoint an executive director for a term not exceeding four (4) years on the basis of

merit and fitness to perform the duties of the office.