§3616 Joint Commission on the Environment

Summary

The United States and the Republic of Panama must set up a Joint Commission on the Environment under the Panama Canal Treaty of 1977. It will have no more than three U.S. members and three Panamanian members, unless the two governments agree to different numbers. The U.S. members must review how the Treaty affects the environment and, together with Panama’s members, recommend ways for both governments to avoid or lessen harmful environmental effects from actions under the Treaty. U.S. members are appointed by the President and serve at the President’s pleasure. They get no salary but may receive travel and per diem under section 3617. Federal employees detailed to the Commission keep their pay and benefits. U.S. members may hire staff and set pay if money is provided in advance by Congress. The Commission may make rules of procedure with Panama’s members, but both governments must approve those rules.