n.legislative groups composed of members of
Congress (the supreme lawmaking
body of the United
States), that conduct investigations;
consider,
evaluate and recommend
action on
legislation; and also serve as a means for those outside the
legislative system (such as
private individuals and groups with
special interests) to
express their viewpoints. Considered the working groups of
Congress, committees (both permanent and
temporary) deal with
legislation affecting areas of
government and
public life under their jurisdiction, such as agriculture, the armed
services,
finance, governmental
affairs,
education and
labor,
energy and
commerce,
public works and transportation.