👩🏾‍⚖️ap us government review

Ways and Means Committee

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2027 exam
Verified for the 2027 examWritten by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025

Definition

A standing House panel with primary jurisdiction over federal taxation, tariffs, and major entitlement programs (including Social Security and Medicare) that drafts and shapes revenue and tax policy in light of the House's origination role under Article I, Section 7. As the gatekeeper of tax and entitlement legislation, it exerts decisive influence on the budget process and on congressional leverage in negotiations with the executive branch.

AP course connection

Topic 2.2: 2.2 Structures, Powers, and Functions of Congress

Unit 2

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Ways and Means Committee Definition for AP US Government | Fiveable