; and (B) by inserting after subparagraph (B) the following new subparagraph (C): (C) To solicit, accept, and execute oceanographic research and education projects aligned with the purpose of the program and funded by private contracts, grants, and donations, on behalf of, and in consultation with the Council in accordance with subsection (g). . (e) Grant and contract authority Such section is further amended by striking subsection (g) and inserting the following new subsection (g): (g) Grant and contract authority To carry out the purpose of the National Oceanographic Partnership Program, under section 8921(b) of this title, the Council shall have, in addition to other powers otherwise given it under this section, the following authorities: (1) The authority to authorize one or more of the departments or agencies represented on the Council to enter into contracts and make grants, and establish and manage new collaborative programs as determined necessary to address emerging science priorities using funds appropriated pursuant to an authorization or appropriations for the National Oceanographic Partnership Program, for the purpose of implementing the program and carrying out the responsibilities of the Council. (2) The authority to authorize the Program Office, on behalf of the Council, to accept funds, including fines and penalties, from other Federal departments and agencies, and to enter into contracts and award grants. (3) The authority to authorize the Program Office, on behalf of the Council, to solicit, accept and execute oceanographic research projects funded by private contracts, grants, and donations. . (f) Appropriate committees of Congress defined Such section is further amended by adding at the end the following new subsection: (i) Appropriate committees of Congress In this section, the term appropriate committees of Congress means— (1) the Committee on Armed Services, the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, and the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives