§3616 Joint Commission on the Environment

Summary

The United States and Panama must set up a Joint Commission on the Environment under the 1977 Panama Canal Treaty. It will have up to three U.S. members and up to three Panamanian members, unless both governments agree to different numbers. The U.S. members must regularly check how the Treaty affects the environment and, together with the Panamanian members, recommend ways to avoid or reduce harmful environmental impacts to both governments. U.S. members are chosen by the President and serve at the President’s pleasure. They get no salary but may receive travel and per diem payments under section 3617. Federal employees detailed to the Commission keep their pay, seniority, and benefits. U.S. members may hire staff and set their pay if funds are provided in advance by appropriation Acts. The Commission’s rules are made with Panama and must be approved by both governments.