(a) Agreement for Study

The Secretary shall offer to enter into an agreement with the National Research Council under which the National Research Council shall—

(1) conduct a study of the progress made under the methane hydrate research and development program implemented under this chapter; and

(2) make recommendations for future methane hydrate research and development needs.

(b) Report

Not later than September 30, 2009, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report containing the findings and recommendations of the National Research Council under this section.