Crs Report for Congress: Congressional Commissions

ISBN-10: 1293022586
ISBN-13: 9781293022580
Series: Crs Report for Congress
Pages: 36
Language: English
Published: 2013-10
Publisher: BiblioGov
Authors: Matthew Eric Glassman, Congressional Research Service: The Libr, Jacob R. Straus

Description

Congressional advisory commissions are formal groups established to provide independent advice; make recommendations for changes in public policy; study or investigate a particular problem, issue, or event; or perform a duty. While no legal definition exists for what constitutes a "congressional commission," in this report a congressional commission is defined as a multi-member independent entity that (1) is established by Congress, (2) exists temporarily, (3) serves in an advisory capacity, (4) is appointed in part or whole by Members of Congress, and (5) reports to Congress. These five characteristics differentiate a congressional commission from a presidential commission, an executive branch commission, or other bodies with "commission" in their names. Over 90 congressional commissions have been established since 1989. Throughout American history, Congress has found commissions to be useful entities in the legislative process. By establishing a commission, Congress can potentially provide a highly visible forum for important issues and assemble greater expertise than may be readily available within the legislature. Complex policy issues can be examined over a longer time period and in greater depth than may be practical for legislators. Finally, the non-partisan or bipartisan character of most congressional commissions may make their findings and recommendations more politically acceptable, ...