Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation

Definition

The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation is a standing committee in the U.S. Senate responsible for overseeing legislation and issues related to commerce, science, technology, transportation, and telecommunications. This committee plays a vital role in shaping policies that affect economic growth and infrastructure development.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The committee has jurisdiction over important areas like aviation, maritime commerce, and consumer protection, impacting both local economies and national policies.
2. Members of this committee often hold significant influence on issues like internet regulation and public transportation funding.
3. The committee conducts hearings to gather information and examine the impact of proposed legislation on various sectors.
4. It also oversees agencies like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
5. U.S. Senators from Washington have served on this committee, influencing decisions that directly affect the state's economy and transportation infrastructure.

Review Questions

• What is the role of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation in shaping U.S. legislation?
  • The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation plays a crucial role in shaping U.S. legislation by overseeing issues related to commerce, technology, and transportation. It reviews proposed laws, conducts hearings to gather expert opinions, and assesses the impact of legislation on various sectors. Through its work, the committee influences critical areas such as economic growth, regulatory frameworks, and infrastructure development.
• How does the work of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation impact industries in Washington State?
  • The work of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation significantly impacts industries in Washington State by addressing key issues like transportation funding and technology regulations. With Washington being home to major companies in aerospace and technology, decisions made by this committee can directly influence economic opportunities and job creation within the state. Senators from Washington who serve on this committee advocate for policies that benefit local industries.
• Evaluate the significance of having U.S. Senators from Washington serve on the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation in relation to regional interests.
  • Having U.S. Senators from Washington serve on the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation is highly significant for regional interests. Their positions allow them to advocate for policies that align with Washington's diverse economy, which includes technology giants like Microsoft and Boeing. By influencing legislation on transportation infrastructure and technology regulations at a national level, these senators can help secure funding and support for projects that enhance economic growth and public safety within their state.

Related terms

Legislation: The process of making or enacting laws through the legislative branch of government.

Subcommittees: Divisions within a larger committee that focus on specific areas of jurisdiction and responsibilities.

Oversight: The review and supervision of federal agencies, programs, and policy implementation by Congress.