Panama Canal Act of 1979

[AI summary unavailable — showing source text] Panama Canal Act of 1979 - Stipulates that acceptance of payments by Panama pursuant to this Act will constitute recognition by Panama that the United States rightfully exercised sovereignty in the Canal Zone under earlier treaties. Title I: Administration and Regulations - Chapter I: Panama Canal Commission - Establishes the Panama Canal Commission to operate and maintain the Panama Canal, subject only to the direction of the Secretary of Defense. Establishes a Supervisory Board over the Commission composed of U.S. nationals and Panamanians, with the U.S. nationals to include members experienced in steamship lines operations, exports, and labor matters. Requires the President to appoint an Administrator, with the advice and consent of the Senate, a Deputy Administrator, and a Chief Engineer. Establishes a Panama Canal Consultative Committee to be a forum for the exchange of views between the United States and Panama. Establishes a Joint Commission on the Environment with Panama to review periodically the environmental impact of the Panama Canal Treaty of 1977. Provides for a military officer to assume jurisdiction over the Canal if the United States is at war or war is imminent. D…