((a)) ** Scientific experts**

((1)) ** In general** The Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of State, shall appoint no more than 2 individuals to serve as scientific experts on the joint technical committee, at least 1 of whom shall be an official of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

((2)) ** Term of office** An individual appointed under paragraph (1) shall be appointed for a term of not to exceed 4 years, but shall be eligible for reappointment. An individual appointed to fill a vacancy occurring prior to the expiration of the term of office of that individual’s predecessor shall be appointed for the remainder of that term.

((b)) ** Independent member** In addition to individuals appointed under subsection (a), the Secretary, jointly with the Government of Canada, shall appoint 1 independent member to the joint technical committee selected from a list of names provided by the advisory panel.