Who designates the presiding officer of the board?

The presiding officer of the board is designated by the governor. This is an important aspect of the structure of state boards, as the governor often has the responsibility to appoint individuals to key positions within various state agencies and boards. This designation allows the governor to influence the direction and priorities of the board, ensuring that it aligns with the administration's goals.

The other options, while they may have roles in the overall governance or oversight of boards and agencies, do not have the authority to appoint the presiding officer specifically. The board members collectively would not have the power to designate a presiding officer without the governor’s input. Similarly, the state legislature may set the laws governing how the board operates but does not appoint the presiding officer. The Texas Attorney General provides legal counsel and representation, but does not have appointive authority in this context. Thus, the correct answer highlights the governor's significant role in appointing key figures within state boards, reflecting an administrative influence on public policy and governance.