Select committee

Definition

A select committee is a temporary committee established by either the House of Representatives or the Senate to conduct specific investigations or consider particular issues outside the jurisdiction of standing committees. These committees play a crucial role in addressing urgent matters, conducting detailed inquiries, and producing reports that inform legislative action.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Select committees are often formed to investigate specific issues, such as scandals, emergencies, or major policy questions, and they can disband after their purpose has been fulfilled.
2. Members of select committees are appointed by party leaders and often include experts or individuals with relevant experience related to the issues being examined.
3. Select committees can hold hearings where they gather testimony from witnesses and stakeholders to gather information for their investigations.
4. While select committees can recommend legislation, they do not have the same authority as standing committees regarding bill approval or amendments.
5. The findings of select committees are usually summarized in reports that are made available to Congress and the public, often influencing future legislation and public policy.

Review Questions

• How do select committees differ from standing committees in terms of purpose and authority?
  • Select committees differ from standing committees primarily in their temporary nature and specific focus. While standing committees handle ongoing legislative responsibilities within particular policy areas, select committees are formed for limited periods to address urgent issues or conduct investigations. Select committees lack the authority to approve legislation but can provide recommendations based on their findings, which may influence legislative actions taken by standing committees.
• Evaluate the impact of select committees on legislative oversight and accountability in Congress.
  • Select committees play a critical role in enhancing legislative oversight and accountability by investigating issues that may require immediate attention. Their ability to hold hearings and gather testimony allows them to uncover information that may not be readily available through standard legislative processes. The reports produced by select committees can shine a light on problems within government or specific policies, holding agencies accountable for their actions while also informing lawmakers about necessary changes or reforms.
• Analyze a recent example of a select committee's investigation and its implications for future legislative action.
  • A recent example is the select committee formed to investigate the events surrounding January 6, 2021. This committee's investigation highlighted significant security failures and raised important questions about accountability among various agencies. The findings led to proposed reforms aimed at strengthening security protocols for future events and sparked discussions about electoral integrity. The implications of this investigation not only influenced public opinion but also set the stage for potential new legislation addressing security measures and political accountability.

Related terms

standing committee: A permanent committee in Congress that meets regularly to consider legislation and oversee specific areas of policy.

joint committee: A committee composed of members from both the House and Senate, formed to conduct business between the houses and to help focus public attention on major issues.

subcommittee: A smaller, specialized group within a standing committee that focuses on specific areas of legislation or oversight.