; vacancies Each member shall be appointed for the life of the Commission, and a vacancy in the Commission shall be filled in the manner in which the original appointment was made. (e) Compensation (1) In general Members of the Commission shall serve without pay. (2) Travel expenses Each member shall receive travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, in accordance with applicable provisions under subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5, United States Code. 5. Operation and powers of the Commission (a) Chair and co-Chair The member of the Commission appointed by the President under section 4(a) shall serve as the chair of the Commission. A co-chair of the Commission shall be designated by the Speaker of the House of Representatives at the time of the appointment. (b) Meetings The Commission shall meet not later than 30 days after the members of the Commission have been appointed, and at such times thereafter as the chair or co-chair shall determine. (c) Rules of procedure The chair and co-chair shall, with the approval of a majority of the members of the Commission, establish written rules of procedure for the Commission, which shall include a quorum requirement to conduct the business of the Commission. (d) Hearings The Commission shall, for the purpose of carrying out this Act, hold at least one hearing that is open to the public and allows for public comment and participation, and may hold such other hearings, sit and act at times and places, take testimony, and receive evidence as the Commission considers appropriate. (e) Obtaining official data The Commission may secure directly from any department or agency of the United States, including the Congressional Budget Office and the Government Accountability Office, any information or technical assistance necessary to enable it to carry out this Act. Upon request of the chair or co-chair of the Commission, the head of that department or agency shall furnish that information or technical assistance to the Commission. (f) Contract authority The