The Joint Staff of the Olbiil Era Kelulau (OEK) consists of personnel who are jointly hired by both the Senate and the House of Delegates to provide services and support to both chambers of Palau’s national legislature.
Unlike the separate staff offices maintained by each chamber, the Joint Staff serves the Senate and the House of Delegates collectively. Its role is to support the shared administrative, financial, informational, and legislative needs of the OEK.
Composition of the Joint Staff
The Joint Staff is composed of personnel assigned to the following offices:
- Administrative Office
- Budget Office
- Library
These offices provide services that support the operations and responsibilities of both houses of the Olbiil Era Kelulau.
Roles and Responsibilities
The Joint Staff performs duties that benefit both the Senate and the House of Delegates. Its responsibilities include:
- Providing administrative support for the joint operations of the OEK
- Assisting with financial, budgetary, and operational matters
- Maintaining legislative reference materials and informational resources
- Supporting access to documents and resources needed by legislators and staff
- Performing other shared services required by both houses of the OEK
Reporting Structure
Each member of the Joint Staff reports directly to the Joint Office Administrator.
The Joint Office Administrator is responsible for supervising and coordinating the work of the personnel assigned to the Administrative Office, Budget Office, and Library. This unified reporting structure helps ensure accountability, effective coordination, and the consistent delivery of services to both houses of the Olbiil Era Kelulau.
Coordination Between the Two Houses
Because Joint Staff personnel are hired jointly by both houses, they serve the institutional needs of the Olbiil Era Kelulau as a whole. Their work helps ensure that shared services are delivered consistently and effectively to both the Senate and the House of Delegates.
Commitment to Service
Through their administrative, financial, informational, and legislative support functions, the Joint Staff contributes to the effective operation of the Olbiil Era Kelulau. Their service enables both houses to carry out their legislative responsibilities efficiently and in the best interests of the people of Palau.