During each two-year Congress thousands of bills and resolutions are referred to Senate committees. To manage the volume and complexity, the Senate divides its work between standing committees, special or select committees, and joint committees. These committees are further divided into subcommittees. Of all the measures sent to committees, only a small percentage are considered. By considering and reporting on a bill, committees help to set the Senates agenda. When a committee or subcommittee decides to consider a measure, it usually takes four actions.
For additional information about the role of committees in the legislative process, read the essays "About the Senate Committee System" and "Senate Committees." Also, visit the Committees FAQ page, the Virtual Reference Desk's Committee page, or the Committee section of Senate.gov. Past Feature Articles |
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