(a) In the absence of fraud, conspiracy, or malice, a member of the board, a full-time or part-time employee of the board, a person who contracts with the board, a witness called to testify by the board, or a consultant or hearing officer appointed by the board is not liable or subject to suit in a civil action for any damage caused by the person for an investigation, report, recommendation, statement, evaluation, finding, order, or award made in the performance of the person's official duties.
(b) The purpose of this section is to protect the persons designated by Subsection (a) from being harassed and threatened with legal action while performing official duties.