; or (ii) by the affirmative vote of a majority of the Commission, a majority being present. (c) Contracting To the extent or in amounts provided in Appropriations acts, and subject to the applicable laws and regulations, the Commission may enter into contracts with government entities, private entities, or persons for goods or services, including for conducting research or surveys, the preparation of reports, and other activities necessary for the discharge of the duties of the Commission. (d) Information from Federal agencies and other entities The Commission may secure directly from any department, agency, bureau, board, commission, office, independent establishment, or instrumentality of the United States any information related to any inquiry of the Commission conducted under this Act, including information of a confidential nature (which the Commission shall maintain in a secure manner). Each such department, agency, bureau, board, commission, office, independent establishment, or instrumentality shall furnish such information directly to the Commission upon request. (e) Administrative support services Upon the request of the Commission— (1) the Administrator of General Services shall provide to the Commission, on a reimbursable basis, the administrative support services necessary for the Commission to carry out its responsibilities under this Act