(a) The board is declared to be a quasi-judicial body. Absent negligence, wantonness, recklessness, or deliberate misconduct, the members and the employees of the board are granted immunity from civil liability and may not be liable for damages when acting in the performance of their duties under this chapter.
(b) Board members and employees shall be defended by the Attorney General in regard to any criminal or civil litigation filed against them based on the performance of their official duties under this chapter.