(3) Members selected from among individuals eminent in the fields of marine science, marine technology, and marine policy, or related fields. The Committee shall ensure that an appropriate balance of academic, scientific, industry, and geographical interests and gender and racial diversity are represented by the members of the Advisory Panel. (b) Responsibilities The Committee shall assign the following responsibilities to the Advisory Panel: (1) To advise the Committee on policies and procedures to implement the National Oceanographic Partnership Program. (2) To advise the Committee on matters relating to national oceanographic science, engineering, facilities, or resource requirements. (3) To advise the Committee on improving diversity, equity, and inclusion in the ocean sciences and related fields (4) To advise the Committee on national ocean research priorities. (5) Any additional responsibilities that the Committee considers appropriate. (6) To meet no fewer than two times a year. (c) Administrative and technical support The Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shall provide such administrative and technical support as the Ocean Research Advisory Panel may require. (d) Federal advisory committee act Section 14 of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.) shall not apply to the Ocean Research Advisory Panel appointed under section 8933. .