Understanding Congressional Committees

The video discusses the structure and roles of congressional committees, including standing, select, and joint committees. It explains the function of subcommittees, the impact of seniority on leadership, and the responsibilities of committee chairpersons. The video also touches on the historical context of term limits and the procedural rules governing committee operations.

What is the primary function of a Standing Committee in Congress?

• To investigate specific issues temporarily

• To manage the budget of Congress

• To handle specific legislation permanently

• To issue periodic reports

Why are subcommittees formed within larger committees?

• To reduce the workload of the Senate

• To create more leadership positions

• To handle specific areas of policy more effectively

• To increase the number of committee members

Which of the following is an example of a select committee's purpose?

• To investigate specific issues not covered by standing committees

• To handle foreign relations

• To manage the daily operations of Congress

• To oversee the budget of the United States

What is the role of a Joint Committee?

• To create new laws

• To investigate specific issues

• To manage the budget of Congress

• To issue periodic reports to the House and Senate

How does seniority affect a member's position in a committee?

• It increases the likelihood of becoming a chairperson

• It has no effect

• It reduces the member's responsibilities

• It determines the member's salary

What was the main reason for proposing term limits for committee chairpersons in the 1990s?

• To reduce the number of committees

• To bring new perspectives and leadership

• To decrease the workload of Congress

• To increase the power of the Senate

How are committee chairpersons selected?

• By the Supreme Court

• By the President

• By their political parties in their caucus

• By a public vote

What power does a committee chairperson have over bills?

• They can amend bills unilaterally

• They can veto bills

• They can decide which bills to consider

• They can pass bills without a vote

What is the purpose of holding public and private meetings by committees?

• To elect new members

• To discuss and deliberate on issues

• To decide on the budget

• To entertain the public

What does it mean to 'pigeonhole' a bill in a committee?

• To fast-track it for approval

• To amend it extensively

• To send it directly to the President

• To set it aside and not consider it