Page:United States Statutes at Large Volume 93.djvu/519

 PUBLIC LAW 96-70—SEPT. 27, 1979

93 STAT. 487

the Congress in a special report containing the material facts and the recommendation of the Commission thereon. ACTIONS ON CLAIMS

SEC. 1416. A claimant for damages pursuant to section 1411 of this 22 USC 3776. Act who considers himself aggrieved by the findings, determination, or award of the Commission in reference to his claim may bring an action on the claim against the Commission in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana. Subject to the provisions of this chapter and of applicable regulations issued pursuant to section 1801 of this Act relative to navigation of the Panama Canal and adjacent waters, such actions shall proceed and be heard by the court without a jury according to the principles of law and rules of practice obtaining generally in like cases between a private party and a department or agency of the United States. Any judgment obtained against the Commission in an action under this subchapter shall be paid out of any moneys appropriated or allotted for the maintenance and operation of the Panama Canal. An action for damages cognizable under this section shall not otherwise lie against the United States or the Commission, nor in any other court, than as provided in this section; nor may it lie against any officer or employee of the United States or of the Commission. INVESTIGATION OF ACCIDENT OR INJURY GIVING RISE TO CLAIM

SEC. 1417. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a claim may 22 USC 3777. not be considered under this subchapter, or an action for damages lie thereon, unless, prior to the departure from the Panama Canal of the vessel involved— (1) an investigation by the competent authorities of the accident or injury giving rise to the claim has been completed; and (2) the basis for the claim has been laid before the Commission. BOARD OF LOCAL INSPECTORS

SEC. 1418. (a) The President shall provide for the establishment of a Regulations. Board of Local Inspectors of the Panama Canal Commission which 22 USC 3778. shall perform, in accordance with regulations prescribed by the President— (1) the investigations required by section 1417 of this Act; and (2) such other duties with respect to marine matters as may be assigned by the President. (b) In conducting any investigation pursuant to subsection (a) of Investigations, this section, the Board of Local Inspectors established pursuant to such subsection may summon witnesses, administer oaths, and require the production of books and papers necessary for such investigation. CHAPTER 5—PUBLIC PROPERTY ASSETS AND LIABILITIES OF PANAMA CANAL COMPANY

SEC. 1501. All property and other assets of the Panama Canal 22 USC 3781. Company shall revert to the United States on the effective date of this Act, and, except as otherwise provided by law, the United States shall assume the liabilities, including contractual obligations, of the Panama Canal Company then outstanding. The Commission may use such property, facilities, and records of the Panama Canal Company as are necessary to carry out its functions.

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