§ 9307. Great Lakes Pilotage Advisory Committee
(a)
The Secretary shall establish a Great Lakes Pilotage Advisory Committee. The Committee—
(1)
may review proposed Great Lakes pilotage regulations and policies and make recommendations to the Secretary that the Committee considers appropriate;
(2)
may advise, consult with, report to, and make recommendations to the Secretary on matters relating to Great Lakes pilotage;
(b)
(1)
The Committee shall consist of seven members appointed by the Secretary in accordance with this subsection, each of whom has at least 5 years practical experience in maritime operations. The term of each member is for a period of not more than 5 years, specified by the Secretary. Before filling a position on the Committee, the Secretary shall publish a notice in the Federal Register soliciting nominations for membership on the Committee.
(2)
The membership of the Committee shall include—
(A)
the President of each of the 3 Great Lakes pilotage districts, or the President’s representative;
(B)
one member representing the interests of vessel operators that contract for Great Lakes pilotage services;
(D)
one member representing the interests of shippers whose cargoes are transported through Great Lakes ports; and
(c)
(1)
The Committee shall elect one of its members as the Chairman and one of its members as the Vice Chairman. The Vice Chairman shall act as Chairman in the absence or incapacity of the Chairman, or in the event of a vacancy in the office of the Chairman.
(2)
The Secretary shall, and any other interested agency may, designate a representative to participate as an observer with the Committee. The Secretary’s designated representative shall act as the executive secretary of the Committee and shall perform the duties set forth in section 10(c) of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.).
(d)
(1)
The Secretary shall, whenever practicable, consult with the Committee before taking any significant action relating to Great Lakes pilotage.
(e)
(1)
A member of the Committee, when attending meetings of the Committee or when otherwise engaged in the business of the Committee, is entitled to receive—
(f)