Other changes to the text of the Convention were made, as well. They include revisions to the list of recommended TEDs, an additional annex on the protection of sea turtle habitat, the creation of a Scientific Committee and a mechanism for countries outside the Western Hemi-sphere to negotiate complementary protocols. Until that meeting, each Party will determine which TEDs to require. The Convention also creates a Consultative Committee to examine annual reports to be submitted by the Parties. The Convention calls upon Parties to negotiate with non-Party States a complementary protocol consistent with the objectives of the Convention.
Any interested State can ratify a complementary protocol.
The Convention itself is open only to States in the Americas or with territories in the Americas. The Convention will be open for signature from 1 December 1996 through 31 December 1998 and will come into force after eight countries ratify it.