9.3—Functions.
(a)
The Panama Canal Commission, which replaced the Canal Zone Government and the Panama Canal Company effective October 1, 1979, is established in the executive branch of the United States by the Panama Canal Act of 1979 (Pub. L. 96-70, 93 Stat. 452) as an agency of the United States, for the purpose of maintaining and operating the Panama Canal and the facilities and appurtenances related thereto. As provided in section 1101 of that Act, the authority of the President with respect to the Commission is exercised through the Secretary of Defense.
(b)
As provided in the Panama Canal Act of 1979, the supervision of the Commission is vested in a Board composed of nine members, one of whom is the Secretary of Defense or an officer of the Department of Defense designated by the Secretary. Not fewer than five members of the Board are nationals of the United States; the remaining members are nationals of the Republic of Panama.
(c)
The President appoints the members of the Board. The members of the Board who are United States nationals are appointed by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Each member of the Board holds office at the pleasure of the President.
(d)
The Administrator of the Commission, who is appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, holds office at the pleasure of the President.
(e)
The Commission maintains and operates the Panama Canal and facilities and appurtenances related thereto, including electric power, water, and telephone systems; procurement and storehouse facilities; motor transportation services; an agency press and duplicating center; marine and general repair shop; and an employees’ housing system.