Why are standing committees known as subject-matter committees?
Social Studies · High School · Wed Jan 13 2021
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- Standing committees are known as subject-matter committees because they have jurisdiction over a particular area or type of legislation, policy, or issues. Each committee focuses on a specific subject or group of related subjects and has the expertise and responsibility to oversee them. These committees are "standing" because they continue from one session of the legislature to the next, unlike select or special committees which are convened for a specific purpose and dissolved after their task is completed.
- For example, in the United States Congress, standing committees such as the House Ways and Means Committee or the Senate Appropriations Committee are permanent committees that handle legislation related to taxation, government spending, and revenue-raising measures. They have the power to review, modify, and create laws in their relevant subject areas, hold hearings, and conduct oversight of programs and agencies falling under their jurisdiction.
- Considering the complexity of the legislative process and the wide range of issues that legislatures must address, these subject-matter committees allow for a more organized and focused approach. Their members generally develop a high level of expertise in the particular subjects they oversee, making these committees essential for effective and knowledgeable lawmaking and oversight.