(a) Review and evaluation

The advisory panel known as the “Safe Meat and Poultry Inspection Panel” established by section 679a of this title shall review and evaluate, as the panel considers necessary, the adequacy, necessity, safety, cost-effectiveness, and scientific merit of—

(1) inspection procedures of, and work rules and worker relations involving Federal employees employed in, plants inspected under this chapter;

(2) informal petitions or proposals for changes in inspection procedures, processes, and techniques of plants inspected under this chapter;

(3) formal changes in poultry inspection regulations promulgated under this chapter, whether in notice, proposed, or final form; and

(4) such other matters as may be referred to the panel by the Secretary regarding the quality or effectiveness of a safe and cost-effective poultry inspection system under this chapter.

(b) Reports

(1) In general

The Safe Meat and Poultry Inspection Panel shall submit to the Secretary a report on the results of each review and evaluation carried out under paragraph (1), including such recommendations as the panel considers appropriate.

(2) Reports on formal changes

In the case of a report concerning a formal change in poultry inspection regulations, the report shall be made within the time limits prescribed for formal comments on such changes.