The following are key features of the ICAOS:

• The creation of a formal Interstate Commission comprised of Commissioners representing each of the member states and vested with full voting rights, the exercise of which is binding on the respective state. The Commission also allows for a number of non-voting ex-officio members representing various interest groups such as the Conference of Chief Justices, crime victim advocates, and others;
• Broad rulemaking authority;
• Extensive enforcement authority, including requirements for remedial training, imposition of fines, and suspension of non-compliant states; and,
• A mandate that each member state create a State Council with representatives from all three branches of government to assist in managing intrastate Compact affairs and intervene as necessary to prevent disputes between states. The State Council is a forum where intrastate management issues can be resolved short of intervention by the Commission.