[Deschler's Precedents, Volume 4, Chapters 15 - 17]
[Chapter 17. Committees]
[A. Creating and Organizing Committees]
[§ 6. Subjects of Investigation or Study]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]
[Page 2560-2604]
CHAPTER 17
Committees
A. CREATING AND ORGANIZING COMMITTEES
Sec. 6. --Subjects of Investigation or Study
Select or special committees are usually created for one of four
[[Page 2561]]
purposes: (1) to investigate conditions or events about which
allegations have been made; (2) to study and report on a particular
matter with a view toward subsequent legislative action by standing
committees; (3) to report to the House on the merits of specific
legislative proposals and to encourage coordinated legislative
decisions; and (4) to supervise certain routine housekeeping
functions.(8)
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8. ``Guidelines for the Establishment of Select Committees,'' report
of the Subcommittee on the Rules and Organization of the House,
Committee on Rules, U.S. House of Representatives, 95th Cong.
(Oct. 31, 1977), p. 18.
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The distinction between a select and special committee is merely
one of emphasis. A ``select'' committee is so designated to emphasize
the manner of the appointment of its membership (usually by the
Speaker). In the case of a ``special'' committee, the designation
emphasizes its purpose of performing a specific function. In fact, most
special committees are select committees, and vice versa.
Arguments that were advanced in support of creating select
committees usually contended: (1) that the matter which the select
committee would study was of major and immediate national importance;
(2) that it required a comprehensive inquiry by Congress as a necessary
precursor to legislation; (3) that the jurisdictional alinements of the
standing committees were such that no one standing committee could
examine the matter fully; and (4) that, therefore, a select committee
would be the most appropriate mechanism available in that its mandate
and authority could be carefully drawn to conform with the requirements
of its inquiry, and in that it could provide the House with the
information it required without encroaching on the established
legislative prerogatives of the standing committees.(9) In
addition, it was sometimes argued that particular standing committees
were simply too overburdened with current responsibilities to delve
into the subject matter of a particular investigation.
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9. Id. at p. 23.
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Generally speaking, most select committees have been authorized to
make legislative recommendations although few, until recently, have
been empowered to report legislation directly to the House. Another
general rule is that committee composition usually reflects the
prevailing party ratios at the time of the select committee's
creation.(10)
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10. Exceptions to this custom include the Select Committee on Standards
and Conduct and the Select Committee on Committees. In each
case the unique importance of the mission of the committee,
i.e., ethics in the first instance and House organization in
the second, seemed to warrant avoidance of even the appearance
of partisanship.
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[[Page 2562]]
The following information provides data on each select and special
committee created by the House of Representatives from 1947 through
1977. Excluded from the list are select or special committees in
existence prior to 1947, but which were subsequently
recreated.(11)
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11. Between the 74th and 79th Congresses, the House continued,
reconstituted, or created the following select committees:
Special Committee on Wild Life Resources, Special Committee on
Un-American Activities, Select Committee to Investigate Real
Estate Bondholders' Reorganization, Special Investigating
Committee on Cross Licensing and Pooling of Patents, Special
Committee to Investigate Campaign Expenditures, Special
Committee Investigating American Retail Federation and Trade
Practices of Big Scale Wholesale and Retail Buying and Selling
Organizations and Their Associations, Special Committee to
Investigate Old-Age Pension Plans, Select Committee to
Investigate Executive Agencies of the Government, Select
Committee on Government Organization, Special Committee to
Investigate Un-American Activities, Special Committee to
Investigate the National Labor Relations Board, Select
Committee to Investigate the Interstate Migration of Destitute
Citizens, Special Committee to Study the Anthracite Emergency
Program, Select Committee Investigating National Defense
Migration, Select Committee to Investigate Air Accidents,
Select Committee on Small Business, Select Committee to
Investigate the Federal Communications Commission, Select
Committee to Investigate Acts of Executive Agencies Beyond the
Scope of Their Authority, Special Committee on Post-War
Economic Policy and Planning, Select Committee on Post-War
Military Policy, Select Committee to Investigate Seizure of
Montgomery Ward & Company, Select Committee to Investigate and
Study Small Business, Select Committee to Investigate Acts of
Executive Agencies Which Exceed Their Authority, Select
Committee to Investigate Supplies and Shortages of Food,
Particularly Meat, Special Committee on Reconstruction of House
Roofs and Skylights, and Select Committee to Investigate
Disposition of Surplus Property.
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The information on each select committee includes its date of
creation, authorizing resolution, number of members, functions and
mandate, presence or absence of subpena and/or legislative authority,
authority to report, special authority, extensions, and termination
date.(12)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
12. ``Guidelines for the Establishment of Select Committees,'' report
of the Subcommittee on the Rules and Organization of the House,
Committee on Rules, U.S. House of Representatives, 95th Cong.
(Oct. 31, 1977), pp. 30-87.
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[[Page 2563]]
Select Committee To Conduct a Study and Investigation of All
Matters Related to the Need for Adequate Supplies of Newsprint,
Printing, and Wrapping Paper, Paper Products, Paper Pulp and
Pulpwood
(Also known as the Select Committee on Newsprint)
Date of creation.--February 26, 1947.
Citation.--H. Res. 58, 80th Congress, 1st Session (adopted by a
record vote of 269-100).
Membership.--Number of members: 7. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee was ``authorized to
conduct a study and investigation of all matters related to the
need for adequate supplies, for use in the United States (including
use in time of war), of newsprint, printing and wrapping paper,
paper products, paper pulp and pulpwood, and of all matters related
to means by which adequate supplies thereof may be produced or
secured, with particular references to--
``(1) The short-range and long-range possibilities of increased
production thereof in the continental United States (including
Alaska);
``(2) The short-range and long-range prospects of securing
increased supplies thereof from Canada and other sources outside
the United States; and
``(3) The extent to which agencies or officers of the United
States may be able to assist in furthering the objective of
securing increased production and supplies thereof.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None.
Legislative authority: None.
Authority to report: The Select Committee was authorized to
submit preliminary reports to the House from time to time as it
deemed advisable. The Select Committee was ordered to submit its
final report to the House together with any recommendations as soon
as practicable during the 80th Congress, upon completion of its
investigation.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Yes. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: End of 80th Congress.
Extensions: None.
Actual termination: Final report submitted to the House on
December 31, 1948. . . .
Select Committee on Foreign Aid
Date of creation.--July 22, 1947.
Citation.--H. Res. 296; 80th Congress, 1st Session (adopted by
a voice vote).
Membership.--Number of members: 19. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee was ``authorized and
directed to make a study of: (1) Actual and prospective needs of
foreign nations and peoples, including those within United States
military zones, both for relief in terms of food, clothing, and so
forth, and of economic rehabilitation; (2) resources and facilities
available to meet such needs within and without the continental
United States; (3) existing or contemplated agencies, whether
private, public, do
[[Page 2564]]
mestic, or international, qualified to deal with such needs; (4)
any or all measures which might assist in assessing relative needs
and in correlating such assistance as the United States can
properly make without weakening its domestic economy.''
Significant changes in form or mandate during lifetime: None.
Legislative authority: None.
Authority to report: The Select Committee was authorized to
report to the House (or to the Clerk of the House if the House was
not in session) from time to time as it deemed appropriate, but not
later than March 1, 1948 (later extended to May 1, 1948).
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: None. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: March 1, 1948 (H. Res.
296).
Extensions: Extended to May 1, 1948 by H. Res. 476 on February
24, 1948.
Actual termination: Final report submitted to the House on May
3, 1948. On June 8, 1948 the House passed H. Res. 601 which
transferred all records of the Select Committee on Foreign Aid to
the Joint Committee on Foreign Economic Cooperation created by
section 124 of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1948 (Public Law 472).
. . .
Select Committee To Investigate Transactions on Commodity Exchange
Date of creation.--December 18, 1947.
Citation.--H. Res. 404; 80th Congress, 1st Session (adopted by
a voice vote).
Membership.--Number of members: 7. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee was ``authorized to
conduct a full and complete investigation of purchases and sales of
commodities for future delivery and including: (a) The activities
of any department or agency of the United States Government in
connection with the purchase and sale of commodities, and into any
other activities of any such agency or department that may have
heretofore affected, or may hereafter affect. the price of food and
other commodities; (b) the private acts, and official activities of
any individual in the United States Government in connection with
the purchase or sale of commodities.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None.
Legislative authority: None.
Authority to report: The Select Committee was authorized to
submit a report to the House (or to the Clerk of the House if the
House was not in session) upon completion of its investigation as
soon as practicable during the 80th Congress.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Yes.
Termination.--Orginal termination date: End of 80th Congress.
Extensions: None.
Actual termination: End of 80th Congress; final report
submitted to the House on December 31, 1948. . . .
Select Committee on Lobbying Activities
Date of creation.--August 12, 1949.
Citation.--H. Res. 298, 81st Congress, 1st Session (adopted by
a voice vote).
Membership.--Number of members: 7. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee was ``authorized and
di
[[Page 2565]]
rected to conduct a study and investigation of: (1) All lobbying
activities intended to influence, encourage, promote, or retard
legislation; and (2) all activities of agencies of the Federal
Government intended to influence, encourage, promote, or retard
legislation.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None.
Legislative authority: None.
Authority to report: The Select Committee was authorized to
submit preliminary reports to the House from time to time as it
deemed advisable; and to submit its final report on the results of
its study and investigations prior to the close of the 81st
Congress.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Yes. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: End of 81st Congress.
Extensions: None.
Actual termination date: End of 81st Congress. . . .
Select Committee To Investigate the Use of Chemicals, Pesticides,
and Insecticides in and With Respect to Food Products
Date of creation.--June 20, 1950.
Citation.--H. Res. 323; 81st Congress, 2d Session, adopted by a
voice vote. H. Res. 74; 82d Congress, 1st Session, February 2, 1951
(adopted by voice vote).
Membership.--Number of members: 7. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee was ``authorized and
directed to conduct a full and complete investigation and study
of--
``(1) The nature, extent, and effect of the use of chemicals,
compounds, and synthetics in the production, processing,
preparation and packaging of food products to determine the effect
of the use of such chemicals, compounds, and synthetics: (a) upon
the health and welfare of the Nation; and (b) upon the stability
and well-being of our agricultural economy;
``(2) The nature, extent, and effect of the use of pesticides
and insecticides with respect to food and food products,
particularly the effect of such use of pesticides and insecticides
upon the health and welfare of the consumer by reason of toxic
residues remaining on such food and food products as a result of
such use; and
``(3) The nature, effect, and extent of the use of chemicals,
compounds, and synthetics in the manufacture of fertilizer,
particularly the effect of such use of chemicals, compounds, and
synthetics upon: (a) The condition of the soil as a result of the
use of such fertilizer; (b) the quantity and quality of the
vegetation growing from such soil; (c) the health of animals
consuming such vegetation; (d) the quantity and quality of food
produced from such soil; and (e) the public health and welfare
generally.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: During the 82d
Congress, 1st Session, on October 15, 1951, the House agreed to H.
Res. 447 which expanded the mandate of the Committee to include ``.
. . an investigation and study of the nature, extent, and effect of
the use of chemicals, compounds, and synthetics in the production,
processing, preparation, and packaging of cosmetics to determine
the effect of the use of such chemicals, compounds, and synthetics
upon the health and welfare of the Nation.''
[[Page 2566]]
Legislative authority: None.
Authority to report: The Select Committee was originally
authorized to report to the House (or the Clerk of the House if the
House was not in session) as soon as practicable during the 81st
Congress on the result of its investigation, together with any
recommendations for legislation. The reporting date was later
extended to the end of the 82d Congress by H. Res. 74, adopted on
February 2, 1951.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Yes. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: End of 81st Congress.
Extensions: Extended to end of 82d Congress by H. Res. 74 on
February 2, 1951.
Actual termination: Final report submitted to the House on
January 3, 1953. . . .
Select Committee To Investigate Abuses in Education, Training and
Loan Guaranty Programs of World War II Veterans
Date of creation.--August 28, 1950.
Citation.--H. Res. 474, 81st Congress, 2d session (adopted by a
voice vote). H. Res. 93, 82d Congress, 1st session, February 2,
1951 (adopted by a voice vote).
Membership.--Number of members: 9. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee was ``authorized and
directed to conduct a full and complete investigation and study of
the alleged abuses in the education and training program of World
War II veterans, and of action taken or the lack of action taken by
the responsible officers and employees of the Veterans'
Administration and State approving authorities to prevent abuses
under the Servicemen's Readjustment Act, as amended.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: H. Res. 93,
adopted on February 2, 1951, to reestablish the Select Committee
for the 82d Congress, expanded the mandate of the Select Committee
to include loan guaranty programs for veterans.
Legislative authority: None.
Authority to report: The original establishing resolution
authorized the Select Committee to submit a report on the results
of its investigation, as soon as practicable during the 81st
Congress. H. Res. 93, reauthorized the Committee and extended the
reporting date to the end of the 82d Congress.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Yes. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: End of 81st Congress.
Extensions: Reestablished by H. Res. 93 for the 82d Congress on
February 2, 1951.
Actual termination: Final report submitted to the House on
September 11, 1952. . . .
Select Committee To Conduct an Investigation and Study of the Katyn
Forest Massacre
Date of creation.--September 18, 1951.
Citation.--H. Res. 390; 82d Congress, 1st Session (adopted by a
voice vote).
Membership.--Number of members: 7. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee was ``authorized and
directed to conduct a full and complete investigation and study of
the facts,
[[Page 2567]]
evidence, and extenuating circumstances both before and after the
massacre of thousands of Polish officers buried in a mass grave in
the Katyn Forest on the banks of the Dnieper in the vicinity of
Smolensk, which was then a Nazi-occupied territory formerly having
been occupied and under the control of the Union of Soviet
Socialist Republics.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: H. Res. 539 of
March 11, 1952 amended H. Res. 390 to permit the Select Committee
to hold hearings outside the United States.
Legislative authority: None.
Authority to report: The Select Committee was ordered to
report, upon completion of its hearings, to the House (or to the
Clerk of the House if the House was not in session) before the
adjournment of the 82d Congress. The reporting date was later
extended to January 3, 1953 (commencement of the 83d Congress) by
H. Res. 539.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Yes. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: End of 82d Congress.
Extensions: Extended by H. Res. 539 to January 3, 1953.
Actual termination: December 22, 1952. . . .
Select Committee To Investigate Tax Exempt Foundations and Other
Organizations
Date of creation.--April 4, 1952.
Citation.--H. Res. 561, 82d Congress, 2d Session (adopted by a
record vote of 194-158). H. Res. 217, 83d Congress, 1st Session,
July 27, 1953 (adopted by a vote of 209-163).
Membership.--Number of members: 7. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee was ``authorized and
directed to conduct a full and complete investigation and study of
educational and philanthropic foundations and other comparable
organizations which are exempt from Federal income taxation to
determine which such foundations and organizations are using their
resources for purposes other than the purposes for which they were
established, and especially to determine which such foundations and
organizations are using their resources for un-American and
subversive activities or for purposes not in the interest or
tradition of the United States.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: H. Res. 217 of
July 27, 1953, which reestablished the Select Committee for the 83d
Congress expanded the Select Committee's jurisdiction; authorizing
it to investigate tax exempt foundations and organizations to
determine if any such organizations were using their resources for
political purposes, propaganda, or attempts to influence
legislation.
Legislative authority: None.
Authority to report: The Select Committee was authorized to
report to the House (or to the Clerk of the House if the House was
not in session) on the results of its investigations on or before
January 1, 1953. The reporting date was later extended by H. Res.
217 to January 3, 1955.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Yes. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: January 1, 1953.
Extensions: Extended to January 3, 1955 by H. Res. 217 on July
27, 1953.
Actual termination: December 16, 1954. . . .
[[Page 2568]]
Select Committee To Conduct an Investigation and Study of Offensive
and Undesirable Books, Magazines, and Comic Books
Date of creation.--May 12, 1952.
Citation.--H. Res. 596; 82d Congress, 2d Session (adopted by a
voice vote).
Membership.--Number of members: 9. . . .
Mode of selecting members: H. Res. 596 specified that the
members of the Select Committee ``be appointed by the Speaker,
three from the Committee on the Judiciary, three from the Committee
on Post Office and Civil Service, and three from the membership of
the House without reference to any committee.'' The resolution also
specified that not more than five members of the Select Committee
were to be appointed from the same political party. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee was ``authorized and
directed to conduct a full and complete investigation and study:
(1) To determine the extent to which current literature-books,
magazines, and comic books-containing immoral, obscene, or
otherwise offensive matter, or placing improper emphasis on crime,
violence, and corruption, are being made available to the people of
the United States through the United States mails and otherwise;
and (2) to determine the adequacy of existing law to prevent the
publication and distribution of books containing immoral,
offensive, and other undesirable matter.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None.
Legislative authority: None.
Authority to report: The Select Committee was authorized to
report to the House (or to the Clerk of the House if the House was
not in session) as soon as practicable during the 82d Congress, on
the results of its investigations and study, together with any
recommendations, including recommendations for legislation as it
deemed advisable.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Yes. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: End of 82d Congress.
Extensions: None.
Actual termination: December 31, 1952. . . .
Select Committee To Investigate Incorporation of Lithuania, Latvia,
and Estonia Into The U.S.S.R.
(Also known as Select Committee on Communist Aggression)
Date of creation.--July 27, 1953.
Citation.--H. Res. 346; 83d Congress, 1st Session (adopted by a
voice vote).
Membership.--Number of members: 7 (increased to 9 by H. Res.
438 on March 4, 1954). . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee was ``authorized and
directed to conduct a full and complete investigation and study of
said seizure and forced `incorporation' of Lithuania, Latvia, and
Estonia by the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics and the
treatment of the said Baltic peoples during and following said
seizure and `incorporation'.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: H. Res. 438 on
March 4, 1954, amended the establishing resolution by expanding the
mandate of the Select Committee, increasing its mem
[[Page 2569]]
bership, and authorizing it to conduct hearings outside the United
States after March 1, 1954. The Committee's expanded mandate is as
follows:
The committee is authorized and directed to conduct a full
and complete investigation and study of: (1) The seizure and
forced ``incorporation'' of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia by
the Union of Soviet Socia]ist Republics and the treatment of
the said Baltic peoples during and following said seizure and
``incorporation''; and (2) the subversion and destruction of
free institutions and human liberties in all other areas
controlled, directly or indirectly, by world communism,
including the treatment of the peoples in such areas.
Legislative authority: None.
Authority to report: The Select Committee was authorized to
report to the House (or to the Clerk of the House if the House was
not in session) as soon as practicable during the 83d Congress on
the results of its investigation and study together with such
recommendations as it deemed advisable.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Yes. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: End of 83d Congress.
Extensions: None.
Actual Termination: December 31, 1954. . . .
Select Committee To Investigate and Study Certain Benefits for
Surviving Dependents of Deceased Members and Former Members of The
Armed Forces
Date of creation.--August 4, 1954.
Citation.--H. Res. 549, 83d Congress, 2d Session (adopted by a
voice vote).
H. Res. 35; 84th Congress, 1st Session, February 2, 1955
(adopted by a voice vote).
Membership.--Number of members:
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee was ``authorized and
directed: (1) To conduct a full and complete investigation and
study of the benefits provided under Federal law for the surviving
dependents of deceased members and former members of the Armed
Forces; and (2) on the basis of such investigation, and study, to
make such recommendations as it may deem advisable and to prepare
such legislation as it may consider appropriate to carry out such
recommendations. ''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None.
Legislative authority: Yes, 84th Congress only.
The establishing resolution, H. Res. 549 authorized the Select
Committee ``to prepare such legislation as it may consider
appropriate to carry out such recommendations.'' H. Res. 35,
approved February 2, 1955, which reauthorized the Select Committee
during the 84th Congress, expanded the authority of the Committee
by authorizing it to ``report to the House, by bill or otherwise .
Authority to report: The Select Committee was authorized to
report to the House on the results of its investigations as soon as
practicable during the 83d Congress. The reporting date was later
extended to January 15, 1956 by H. Res. 35, adopted on February 2,
1955.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: No. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: End of 83d Congress.
[[Page 2570]]
Extensions: Extended to January 15, 1956 by H. Res. 35 on
February 2, 1955.
Actual termination: January 15, 1956. . . .
Select Committee To Investigate and Study The Financial Position of
The White County Bridge Commission
Date of creation.--May 25, 1955.
Citation.--H. Res. 244; 84th Congress, 1st Session (adopted by
a record vote of 205-166).
Membership.--Number of members: 3. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee was ``authorized and
directed to conduct a full and complete investigation and study of
the financial position of the White County Bridge Commission
established by Public Law 37, 77th Congress, with a view to
ascertaining when it may be expected that the bridge and approaches
thereto operated by such commission near New Harmony, Ind., will
become free of tolls, and what money has been received, and what
expenditures have been made, by such commission since its
establishment in 1941.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None.
Legislative authority: None.
Authority to report: The Select Committee was authorized to
report to the House (or to the Clerk of the House if the House was
not in session) as soon as practicable during the 84th Congress on
the results of its investigation and study, together with its
recommendations.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Yes. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: End of 84th Congress.
Extensions: None.
Actual termination: Report submitted to the House on April 25,
1956. . . .
Select Committee on the Houserecording Studio
Date of creation.--June 27, 1956.
Citation.--Public Law 84-624; 84th Congress, 2d Session (2
U.S.C. 123b) (H.R. 11473, Legislative Branch Appropriations Act of
1957, approved June 27, 1956).
Membership.--Number of members: 3. . . .
Mode of selecting members: The law directed that the Select
Committee be composed of three Members of the House, two from the
majority party and one from the minority party, to be appointed by
the Speaker. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: Public Law 84-624 directed that the House
Recording Studio be operated by the ``Clerk of the House of
Representatives under the direction and control of a committee
which is hereby created . . . composed of three members. . . .''
The Select Committee was ``authorized to issue such rules and
regulations relating to operation of the House Recording Studio as
it may deem necessary.'' The law directed that price fixing of
disk, film, and recordings by the Clerk of the House of
Representatives be subject to approval by the Select Committee.
Expenditures by the House Recording Studio are subject to
regulations approved by the Select Committee. The Clerk of the
House of Representatives was authorized, subject to the approval of
the Select Committee,
[[Page 2571]]
to fix the compensation of a Director of the House Recording Studio
and such other employees as are deemed necessary to its operation.
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None.
Legislative authority: Not specified.
Authority to report: Not specified.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: None. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: Not specified.
Actual termination: Still in existence [Speaker appoints
members each Congress].
Select Committee on Astronautics and Space Exploration
Date of creation.--March 5, 1958.
Citation.--H. Res. 496; 85th Congress, 2d Session (adopted by a
voice vote).
Membership.--Number of members: 13. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee was ``authorized and
directed to conduct a thorough and complete study and investigation
with respect to all aspects and problems relating to the
exploration of outer space and the control, development, and use of
astronautical resources, personnel, equipment, and facilities.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None.
Legislative authority: Yes, the Select Committee was authorized
to consider all bills and resolutions proposing legislation in the
field of astronautics and space exploration.
Authority to report: The Select Committee was authorized to
report to the House by bill or otherwise by June 1, 1958, or the
earliest date thereafter, but by no later than January 3, 1959.
Authority.--Authority to issue subponeas: Yes. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: January 3, 1959.
Extensions: None.
Actual termination: On July 21, 1958, the House approved H.
Res. 580 which established a standing Committee on Science and
Astronautics to continue the work of the Select Committee. On
January 7, 1959, the Select Committee on Astronautics and Space
Exploration issued two reports. . . .
Select Committee To Investigate and Study the Administration of the
Export Control Act of 1949
Date of creation.--September 7, 1961.
Citation.--H. Res. 403, 87th Congress, 1st Session (adopted by
a division of 90-1).
Membership.--Number of members: 5. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee was ``authorized and
directed to conduct a full and complete investigation and study of
the administration, operation, and enforcement of the Export
Control Act of 1949 (63 Stat. 7), as amended, with a view to
assessing the accomplishments under that Act, determining whether
improvements can be made in the administration, operation, or
enforcement thereof, and improving congressional oversight and
guidance over the formation of United States policies involved in
such Act. In carrying out such investigation and study, the
committee shall give particular attention to the following matters:
``(1) The problems involved in the control of trade between the
United
[[Page 2572]]
States and foreign countries comprising the Sino-Soviet bloc.
``(2) Present methods and procedures in the formulation of
policy with respect to the determination of which articles,
materials, supplies, and technical data shall be controlled under
such Act, and the extent of such control.
``(3) Procedures followed under such Act in obtaining
information, advice, and opinions with respect to determination of
which articles, materials, supplies, and technical data shall be
controlled under such Act, from departments and agencies of the
United States which are concerned with aspects of our domestic or
foreign policies and operations which have a bearing on exports.
``(4) The extent to which decisions heretofore made under such
Act concerning the control of exports have adversely affected the
security of the United States.
``(5) Whether or not such Act is being administered by the
appropriate department of the Federal Government.
``(6) The interrelationship between such Act and related Acts
(such as the Mutual Defense Assistance Control Act of 1951, and the
Trading With the Enemy Act) and other discussions or agreements
entered into by the United States (such as the coordinating
committee (COCOM) discussions and agreements) which affect or
relate to the control of trade between the United States and
foreign countries.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None. ''
Legislative authority: None.
Authority to report: The Select Committee was authorized to
report to the House (or to the Clerk of the House if the House was
not in session) the results of its investigation and study,
together with any recommendations it deemed advisable.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Yes. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: End of 87th Congress.
Extensions: None.
Actual termination: Report submitted to the House on May 31,
1962. . . .
Select Committee To Investigate Expenditures for Research Programs
Conducted by or Sponsored by the Departments and Agencies of the
Federal Government
(Also known as the Select Committee on Government Research)
Date of creation.--September 11, 1963.
Citation.--H. Res. 504; 88th Congress, 1st Session (adopted by
a vote of 336 to 0).
Membership.--Number of members: 9. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee was ``directed to
make a complete, full, and thorough investigation of the numerous
research programs being conducted by sundry departments and
agencies of the Federal Government and, without limiting the
generality of the foregoing, the committee shall give special
attention to the following: (1) The overall total amount of annual
expenditures on research programs; (2) what departments and
agencies of the Government are conducting research and at what
costs; (3) the amounts being expended by the
[[Page 2573]]
various agencies and departments in grants and contracts for
research to colleges, private industry, and every form of student
scholarships; (4) what facilities, if any, exist for coordinating
the various and sundry research programs, including grants to
colleges and universities as well as scholarship grants.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None.
Legislative authority: None.
Authority to report: The Select Committee was authorized to
report ``its findings to the House with such recommended
legislation as the committee may deem appropriate to correct any
deficiencies. `` The Select Committee was authorized to submit
interim reports, and its final report prior to December 1, 1964.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Yes. . . .
Special authorities: H. Res. 504 provided the following: ``In
order that this investigation of the numerous research programs may
be better coordinated, without limiting the scope of the same
committee's investigation, it is directed, among other
investigative procedures, to make use of information currently
available to the various committees of Congress which have
legislative jurisdiction over Government research activities to the
end that the said select committee may be able to recommend the
necessary legislation to coordinate and prevent justifiable
duplication in the numerous projects and activities of the
Government relating to scientific research.''. . .
Termination.--Original termination date: December 1, 1964.
Extensions: Extended to January 3, 1965, by H. Res. 810 on
August 5,1964.
Actual termination: January 3, 1965. . . .
Select Committee To Study the Factors Relating to the General
Welfare and Education of Congressional Pages
Date of creation.--September 30, 1964.
Citation.--H. Res. 847; 88th Congress, 2d Session (adopted by a
voice vote).
Membership.--Number of members: 5. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee was ``authorized and
directed to conduct a full and complete investigation and study of
all of the factors relating to the general welfare and education of
congressional pages, including, but not limited to, a study and
investigation of the residential, dining, recreational,
educational, and physical training facilities and opportunities for
such pages, and rates of pay, hours of work, and other conditions
governing the employment of such pages.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None.
Legislative authority: None.
Authority to report: The Select Committee was directed to
report to the House as soon as practicable during the 88th Congress
on the results of its investigation and study. The Select Committee
was authorized to make ``recommendations regarding the feasibility
and desirability of raising the minimum age for Capitol pages to
eighteen years, of requiring secondary school graduation as a
prerequisite for appointment as a Capitol page, and of providing
for the establishment and
[[Page 2574]]
construction of a Capitol page school and residence, and such other
recommendations as it deems advisable.''
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Not specified in
establishing resolution. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: End of 88th Congress.
Extensions: None.
Actual termination: Report submitted to the House on January 4,
1965. . . .
Select Committee on Standards and Conduct
Date of creation.--October 19, 1966.
Citation.--H. Res. 1013; 89th Congress, 2d Session (adopted by
a recorded vote of 256-0).
Membership.--Number of members: 12. . . .
Mode of selecting members: The establishing resolution
stipulated that the twelve members of the Committee be appointed by
the Speaker as follows: six from the majority party and six from
the minority party. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee on Standards and
Conduct, was authorized to:
``(1) Recommend to the House, by report or resolution such
additional rules or regulations as the Select Committee shall
determine to be necessary or desirable to insure proper standards
of conduct by Members of the House and by officers or employees of
the House, in the performance of their duties and the discharge of
their responsibilities; and
``(2) Report violations, by a majority vote of the Select
Committee, of any law to the proper Federal and State
authorities.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None.
Legislative authority: Yes.
Authority to report: The Select Committee was authorized to
make recommendations to the House by report or resolution on the
subjects under its jurisdiction. No reporting date was specified in
the establishing resolution.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Yes. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: End of 89th Congress.
Extensions: None.
Actual termination: Final report submitted to the House on
December 27, 1966. On April 13, 1967 the House agreed to H. Res.
418 creating a standing Committee on Standards of Official Conduct.
. . .
Special Committee To Report to the House Upon the Question of the
Right of Adam Clayton Powell To Be Sworn In as a Representative
From the State of New York in the 90th Congress
Date of creation.--January 10, 1967.
Citation.--H. Res. 1, 90th Congress, 1st Session (adopted by a
vote of 363-65).
Membership.--Number of members: 9. . . .
Mode of selecting members: All members of the Special Committee
were appointed by the Speaker. H. Res. 1 specified that four of the
nine members be members of the minority party and appointed after
consultation with the Minority Leader. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Special Committee was appointed to
consider the ``question of the right of Adam Clayton Powell to be
sworn in as a
[[Page 2575]]
Representative from the State of New York in the Ninetieth
Congress, as well as his final right to a seat therein as
Representative. . . .''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None.
Legislative authority: None.
Authority to report: The Special Committee was authorized to
report to the House within five weeks after the appointment of the
members of the Special Committee.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Yes. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: Five weeks after the
appointment of the members of the Special Committee, who were
appointed January 19, 1967.
Extensions: None.
Actual termination: February 23, 1967. . . .
Select Committee on the House Beauty Shop
Date of creation.--December 6, 1967.
Citation.--H. Res. 1000; 90th Congress, 1st Session (adopted by
a voice vote). H. Res. 258; 91st Congress, 1st Session, February
19, 1969 (adopted by a voice vote). Public Law 91-145, December 12,
1969, Legislative Branch Appropriations for fiscal year 1970.
Membership.--Number of members: 3. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The establishing resolution directed that
``until otherwise ordered by the House, the management of the House
Beauty Shop and all matters connected therewith shall be under the
direction of the Select Committee . . . and shall be operated under
such rules and regulations as such Committee may prescribe for the
operation and the employment of necessary assistance for the
conduct of said Beauty Shop by such business methods as may produce
the best results consistent with economical and modern
management.'' The Select Committee was authorized by H. Res. 1000
of the 90th Congress to purchase equipment and materials for
initial operations of the shop at a cost not to exceed $15,000, to
be paid from the contingent fund of the House of Representatives.
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: The Legislative
Branch Appropriations Act Approved on December 12, 1969, authorized
the establishment of a Select Committee on the House Beauty Shop.
The jurisdiction and membership of the Select Committee was not
changed. However, the law provided for the establishment of a
revolving fund for the House Beauty Shop in the United States
Treasury. The General Accounting Office was authorized to audit the
activities of the Beauty Shop when directed to do so by the Select
Committee.
Legislative authority: Not specified.
Authority to report: Not specified.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: No. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: End of 90th Congress.
Extensions: Extended by H. Res. 258, 90th Congress, 1st Session
on February 19, 1969, to the end of the 91st Congress; and
reauthorized by Public Law 91-145 on December 12, 1969.
Actual termination: Still in existence.
Select Committee To Regulate Parking on the House Side of the
Capitol
Date of creation.--March 13, 1969.
[[Page 2576]]
Citation.--H. Res. 282; 91st Congress, 1st Session (adopted by
a voice vote). H. Res. 24; 92d Congress, 1st Session, February 10,
1971 (adopted by a voice vote). H. Res. 145; 93d Congress, 1st
Session, February 7, 1973 (adopted by a voice vote).
Membership.--Number of members: 3. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee was ``authorized to
exercise direction over the Sergeant at Arms of the House of
Representatives in the assignment of space for outdoor parking of
automobiles in squares 639, south of 635, and 692, located adjacent
to the House Office Buildings, and for all other outdoor parking of
automobiles on the House side of the United States Capitol
Grounds.'' The establishing resolution also directed the House
Office Building Commission ``to delegate so much of such duties as
pertain to the direction and supervision of the Architect of the
Capitol in the assignment of space for parking of automobiles in
the garages in the Rayburn House Office Building, the Cannon House
Office Building, and the two underground garages in squares 637 and
691, located adjacent to the House Office Buildings, and the
issuance of regulations governing such assignments, to the select
committee. . . .''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None.
Legislative authority: None.
Authority to report: Not specified in establishing resolution.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: None. . . .
Termination.--Original termination: End of 91st Congress.
Extensions: Reauthorized by H. Res. 24 for the 92d Congress on
February 10, 1971, and by H. Res. 145 for the 93d Congress on
February 7, 1973.
Actual termination: End of the 93d Congress. At the beginning
of the 94th Congress, the Committee on House Administration created
a Subcommittee on Parking [having been given jurisdiction effective
Jan. 4, 1975, over parking facilities of the House (H. Res. 988,
93d Cong.)].
Select Committee on Crime
Date of creation.--May 1, 1969.
Citation.--H. Res. 17; 91st Congress, 1st Session (adopted by a
vote of 34518). H. Res. 115; 92d Congress, 1st Session, March 9,
1971 (adopted by a voice vote). H. Res. 256; 93d Congress, 1st
Session, February 28, 1973 (adopted by a vote of 317-75).
Membership.--Number of members: 7 (increased to 11 by H. Res.
115 on March 9, 1971). . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee was ``authorized and
directed to conduct a full and complete investigation and study of
all aspects of crime in the United States, including: (1) Its
elements, causes, and extent; (2) the preparation, collection, and
dissemination of statistics thereon, and the availability of
reciprocity of information among law enforcement agencies, Federal,
State, and local, including exchange of information with foreign
nations; (3) the adequacy of law enforcement and the administration
of justice, including constitutional issues pertaining thereto; (4)
the effect of crime and disturbances in the metropolitan urban
areas; (5) the effect, directly or indirectly, of crime on the
commerce of the Nation; (6) the treatment and rehabilitation of
persons con
[[Page 2577]]
victed of crimes; (7) measures for the reduction, control, or
prevention of crime; (8) measures for the improvement of (a)
detection of crime, (b) law enforcement, including increased
cooperation among the agencies thereof, (c) the administration of
justice; and (9) measures and programs for increased respect for
the law.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: The membership
of the Select Committee was increased to eleven by H. Res. 115,
March 9, 1971 which reauthorized the Select Committee for the 92d
Congress.
Legislative authority: None.
Authority to report: The Select Committee was authorized to
report to the House as soon as practicable during the 91st Congress
on the results of its investigation together with any
recommendations it deemed advisable. This date was later extended
to June 30, 1973.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Yes. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: End of 91st Congress.
Extensions: H. Res. 115 on March 9, 1971 extended the Committee
for the duration of the 92d Congress, H. Res. 256 on February 28,
1973, extended the Select Committee to June 30, 1973.
Actual termination: June 30, 1973 [records, files, and all
current material transferred to Committee on the Judiciary pursuant
to H. Res. 256, Feb. 28, 1973].
Select Committee on the House Restaurant
Date of creation.--July 10, 1969.
Citation.--H. Res. 472; 91st Congress, 1st Session (adopted by
a voice vote). H. Res. 317; 92d Congress, 1st Session, March 25,
1971 (adopted by a voice vote). H. Res. 111; 93d Congress, 1st
Session, February 7, 1973 (adopted by voice vote).
Membership.--Number of members: 5. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee was established to
supervise the operation of the House Restaurant. The establishing
resolution directed that ``[O]n and after July 15, 1969, until
otherwise ordered by the House, the Architect of the Capitol shall
perform the duties vested in him by section 208 of Public Law 812,
76th Congress (40 U.S.C. 174K) under the direction of the Select
Committee. . . .''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: H. Res. 317, on
March 25, 1971, reauthorized the Select Committee for the 92d
Congress and expanded its jurisdiction. The Committee on House
Administration was delegated authority over the direction and
supervision of the House Restaurant and facilities. The Select
Committee was authorized to ``exercise direction and supervision
over immediate management and operation of the House Restaurant and
the cafeteria and other food service facilities of the House of
Representatives, subject to the authority of the Committee on House
Administration. . . .''
Legislative authority: None.
Authority to report: Not specified in establishing resolution.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: None. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: End of 91st Congress.
Extensions: Extended to end of 92d Congress by H. Res. 317 on
March 25,
[[Page 2578]]
1971. Extended to end of 93d Congress by H. Res. 111 on February 7,
1973.
Actual termination: End of 93d Congress. At the beginning of
the 94th Congress, the House Committee on House Administration
[which, since abolition of the Committee on Accounts in 1946, has
possessed legislative jurisdiction over measures relating to the
House restaurant] created an Ad Hoc Subcommittee on the Restaurant.
Select Committee To Investigate All Aspects of United States
Military Involvement in South-east Asia
Date of creation.--June 8, 1970.
Citation.--H. Res. 976; 91st Congress, 2d Session (adopted by a
vote of 224-101).
Membership.--Number of members: 12. [Majority]: 6. [Minority]:
6.
Mode of selecting members: The establishing resolution
specified that the members of the Select Committee be chosen as
follows: ``two from the Armed Services Committee, two from the
Foreign Affairs Committee, and eight from the House at large. . .
.'' Appointed by the Speaker. . . .''
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee was authorized to
``immediately proceed to Southeast Asia to investigate all aspects
of the United States military involvement in Southeast Asia.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None.
Legislative authority: None.
Authority to report: The Select Committee was authorized to
report to the House on the results of its investigation within
forty-five days after adoption of the authorizing resolution.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: No. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: July 23, 1970.
Extensions: None.
Actual termination: Report submitted to the House on July 6,
1970. . . .
Select Committee on Committees
Date of creation.--January 31, 1973.
Citation.--H. Res. 132; 93d Congress, 1st Session (adopted by a
vote of 282-91).
Membership.--Number of members: 10. [Majority]: 5, [Minority]:
5.
Mode of selecting members: Appointed by the Speaker as
authorized in the establishing resolution: five members from the
majority and five from the minority. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee was ``authorized and
directed to conduct a thorough and complete study with respect to
the operation and implementation of rules X and XI of the Rules of
the House of Representatives, including committee structure of the
House, the number and optimum size of committees, their
jurisdiction, the number of subcommittees, committee rules and
procedures, media coverage of meetings, staffing, space, equipment,
and other committee facilities.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None.
Legislative authority: Yes.
Authority to report: The Select Committee was authorized and
``directed to report to the House by bill, resolution, or
otherwise, with respect to any matters covered by this
resolution.''
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: None. . . .
[[Page 2579]]
Termination.--Original termination date: End of 93d Congress.
Extensions: None.
Actual termination: December 20, 1974 (end of 93d Congress). .
. .
Select Committee on Aging
Date of creation.--January 3, 1975.
Citation.--H. Res. 988; 93d Congress, 2d Session (amendment
adopted by a vote of 323-84, on October 2, 1974).
Membership.--Not specified in establishing resolution.
[Appointed by Speaker each Congress.]
Number of members: Not specified in establishing resolution.
94th Congress: 28. . . .
95th Congress: 34. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The permanent Select Committee on Aging is
authorized--
``(1) To conduct a continuing comprehensive study and review of
the problems of the older American, including but not limited to
income maintenance, housing, health (including medical research),
welfare, employment, education, recreation, and participation in
family and community life as self-respecting citizens;
``(2) To study the use of all practicable means and methods of
encouraging the development of public and private programs and
policies which will assist the older American in taking a full part
in national life and which will encourage the utilization of the
knowledge, skills, special aptitudes, and abilities of older
Americans to contribute to a better quality of life for all
Americans;
``(3) To develop policies that would encourage the coordination
of both governmental and private programs designed to deal with
problems of aging; and
``(4) To review any recommendations made by the President or by
the White House Conference on Aging relating to programs or
policies affecting older Americans.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None.
Legislative authority: None.
Authority to report: Not specified in the establishing
resolution. Each House standing committee is required under rule
XI, clause 1(d) of the House Rules to submit to the House a report
on the activities of that committee no later than January 2 of each
odd-numbered year. To date, the House permanent Select Committee on
Aging has submitted annual reports to the House for 1975 and 1976.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Yes. . . .
Termination.--The Select Committee is a permanent Select
Committee [established under the standing rules of the House
pursuant to H. Res. 988, 93d Cong. See Rule X clause 6(g), House
Rules and Manual Sec. 702 (1979)].
H. Res. 988, including the provision creating the Select
Committee, became effective on January 3, 1975.
Select Committee on Intelligence
Date of creation.--February 19, 1975 and July 17, 1975.
[On July 17, 1975, the House abolished the first Select
Committee on Intelligence established by H. Res. 138, and created a
second Select Committee on Intelligence with the same mandate, but
with its membership increased by three.]
[[Page 2580]]
Citation.--H. Res. 138; 94th Congress, 1st Session (adopted on
a vote of 286-120). H. Res. 591; 94th Congress, 1st Session
(Adopted by a voice vote).
Membership.--Number of members: 10 (increased to 13 by H. Res.
591). . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The House Select Committee on Intelligence
was established ``to conduct an inquiry into the organization,
operations, and oversight of the intelligence community of the
United States Government.'' The Select Committee was ``authorized
and directed to conduct an inquiry into--
``(1) The collection, analysis, use, and cost of intelligence
information and allegations of illegal or improper activities of
intelligence agencies in the United States and abroad;
``(2) The procedures and effectiveness of coordination among
and between the various intelligence components of the United
States Government;
``(3) The nature and extent of executive branch oversight and
control of United States intelligence activities;
``(4) The need for improved or reorganized oversight by the
Congress of United States intelligence activities;
``(5) The necessity, nature, and extent of overt and covert
intelligence activities by United States intelligence
instrumentalities in the United States and abroad;
``(6) The procedures for and means of the protection of
sensitive intelligence information;
``(7) Procedures for and means of the protection of rights and
privileges of citizens of the United States from illegal or
improper intelligence activities; and
``(8) Such other related matters as the select committee shall
deem necessary to carry out the purposes of this resolution.''
In carrying out the purposes of the establishing resolutions
the Select Committee on Intelligence was further ``authorized to
inquire into the activities of the following:
``(1) the National Security Council;
``(2) the United States Intelligence Board;
``(3) the President's Foreign Intelligence Advisory Board;
``(4) the Central Intelligence Agency;
``(5) the Defense Intelligence Agency;
``(6) the intelligence components of the Departments of the
Army, Navy, and the Air Force;
``(7) the National Security Agency;
``(8) the Intelligence and Research Bureau of the Department of
State;
``(9) the Federal Bureau of Investigation;
``(10) the Department of the Treasury and the Department of
Justice;
``(11) the Energy Research and Development Administration; and
``(12) any other instrumentalities of the United States
Government engaged in or otherwise responsible for intelligence
operations in the United States and abroad.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None.
Legislative authority: None.
Authority to report: The House Select Committee on Intelligence
was ``authorized and directed to report to the House with respect
to the matters covered . . . as soon as practicable but no later
than January 31, 1976.'' The establishing resolution also stated
that the authority granted to the Select Committee ``shall expire
three months
[[Page 2581]]
after the filing of the report with the House of Representatives.''
On January 29, 1970, the House adopted H. Res. 982 by a vote of 246
to 129, which reversed the decision of the Select Committee to make
its final report public, and prohibited the release of the report
so long as it contained information that the President believed
would jeopardize the national security. The resolution directed
that ``the Select Committee on Intelligence shall not release any
report containing materials, information, data, or subjects that
presently bear security classification, unless and until such
reports are published with appropriate security markings and
distributed only to persons authorized to receive such classified
information, or until the report has been certified by the
President as not containing information which would adversely
affect the intelligence activities of the CIA in foreign countries
or the intelligence activities in foreign countries of any other
department or agency of the Federal Government. The resolution also
authorized the Select Committee to file a supplemental report
containing its recommendations by midnight on Wednesday, February
11, 1976.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Yes. . . .
Special authorities: Section 6 of the establishing resolution
authorized the Select Committee to ``institute and carry out such
rules and procedures as it may deem necessary to prevent: (1) The
disclosure, outside the select committee, of any information
relating to the activities of the Central Intelligence Agency or
any other department or agency of the Federal Government engaged in
intelligence activities, obtained by the select committee during
the course of its study and investigation, not authorized by the
select committee to be disclosed; and (2) the disclosure, outside
the select committee, of any information which would adversely
affect the intelligence activities of the Central Intelligence
Agency in foreign countries or the intelligence activities in
foreign countries of any other department or agency of the Federal
Government.''. . .
Termination.--Original termination date: The Select Committee
was authorized to submit a report by January 31, 1976. The
authority granted the Select Committee was to expire three months
after the report was filed.
Extensions: H. Res. 982 on January 29, 1976, granted Select
Committee until February 11, 1976, to file a supplemental report
containing its recommendations.
Actual termination: February 11, 1976, report submitted to
House. [Rule XLVIII, House Rules and Manual (1979) established a
permanent select committee to be known as the permanent Select
Committee on Intelligence. The resolution creating the permanent
select committee directed the committee to make a study with
respect to intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the
United States and to report thereon, together with appropriate
recommendations, not later than the close of the 95th Congress (H.
Res. 658, section 3; see H. Rept. 95-1795, Oct. 14, 1978), and
transferred to the permanent Select Committee on Intelligence all
records, files, documents and other materials of the Select
Committee on Intelligence of the 94th Congress in the possession,
custody, or control of the Clerk of the House.]
Ad Hoc Select Committee on the Outer Continental Shelf
Date of creation.--April 22, 1975.
[[Page 2582]]
Citation.--H. Res. 412; 94th Congress, 1st Session (adopted by
a voice vote). H. Res. 97; 95th Congress, 1st Session, January 11,
1977 [adopted by a voice vote upon being called up as privileged
from the floor pursuant to the Speaker's authority under Rule X
clause 5 (c) to create ad hoc select committees with approval of
the House].
Membership.--Number of members: 16 (increased to 19 by the
Speaker on May 6, 1975). . . .
Mode of selecting members: Appointed by the Speaker from the
following committees: (1) The Committee on Interior and Insular
Affairs; (2) the Committee on the Judiciary; (3) the Committee on
Merchant Marine and Fisheries. H. Res. 97 which reauthorized the
Committee for the 95th Congress, also specified that the Select
Committee be composed of ``other members from other committees as
the Speaker may appoint so as to insure the expeditious
consideration ancl reporting of appropriate legislation.''
Function.--Mandate: The ad hoc Select Committee on the Outer
Continental Shelf was authorized to consider and report to the
House on H.R. 6218, ``a bill to establish a policy for the
management of oil and natural gas in the Outer Continental Shelf;
to protect the marine and coastal environment; to amend the Outer
Continental Shelf Lands Act; and for other purposes, and on any
related matter on this subject within the jurisdiction . . .'' of
the Committees on Interior and Insular Affairs, Merchant Marine and
Fisheries, and the Judiciary which may be referred to it by the
Speaker.
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None.
Legislative authority: Yes.
Authority to report: The ad hoc Select Committee on the Outer
Continental Shelf was originally directed to transmit its findings
and make a full report to the House on January 31, 1976. The
reporting date was extended to March 31, 1976, by H. Res. 977 and
to May 4, 1976, by H. Res. 1121. H. Res. 97 reestablished the
Select Committee and extended its reporting date to the end of the
first session of the 95th Congress. Unless extended further, the
Committee was to expire ``upon completion of the legislative
process, including final disposition of any veto message with
respect to all legislation reported by the Committee.'' (H. Res.
97, 95th Congress, 1st Session, January 11, 1977 p. 3).
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Yes. . . .
Special authorities: Section 2 of the establishing resolution
provides that ``[I]nsofar as applicable, the provisions of rule XI,
clauses 1 and 2 shall apply to the Select Committee.'' Rule XI of
the Rules of the House relate to the rules of procedures for
standing committees, and clauses 1 and 2 focus on the following:
adoption of written rules for committees, regular meeting days,
additional and special meetings, absence of chairman, committee
records, open meetings and hearings, quorum for taking testimony
and certain other actions, prohibition against committee meetings
during five minute rule, calling and interrogation of witnesses,
investigative hearing procedures, committee procedures for
reporting bills and resolutions, power to sit and act, subpoena
power, and use of committee funds for travel. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: January 31, 1976.
[[Page 2583]]
Extensions: Extended to March 31, 1976 by H. Res. 977 on
January 26, 1976. Extended to May 4, 1976, by H. Res. 1121 on March
31, 1976. [Since H.R. 6218 did not become law in the 94th Congress,
the Committee was reestablished in the 95th Congress by H. Res. 97
on Jan. 11, 1977, for purposes of considering H.R. 1614, the new
version of the bill. Upon submission of the final report of the
Committee, it was authorized to continue until completion of the
legislative process, ``including final disposition of any veto
message, with respect to all legislation reported by the
Committee.'']
Actual termination: Still in existence during 1st Session of
the 95th Congress. . . .
Select Committee To Study the Problem of United States Servicemen
Missing in Action in Southeast Asia
Date of creation.--September 11, 1975.
Citation.--H. Res. 335; 94th Congress, 1st Session (adopted by
a vote of 395-3).
Membership.--Number of members: 10. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee was ``authorized and
directed to conduct a full and complete investigation and study
of--
``(1) The problem of United States servicemen still identified
as missing in action, as well as those known dead whose bodies have
not been recovered, as a result of military operations in North
Vietnam, South Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia and the problem of
United States civilians identified as missing or unaccounted for,
as well as those known dead whose bodies have not been recovered in
North Vietnam, South Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia;
``(2) The need for additional international inspection teams to
determine whether there are servicemen still held as prisoners of
war or civilians held captive or unwillingly detained in the
aforementioned areas.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None.
Legislative authority: None.
Authority to report: The Select Committee was directed to
submit a report to the House with respect to the results of its
investigation as soon as practicable, but not later than one year
after the adoption of the resolution establishing it (September 11,
1976). Extended to January 3, 1977 by H. Res. 1454 on August 2,
1976.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Yes. . . .
Special authorities: The Select Committee and its staff were
authorized to conduct field hearings and investigations and to
travel to Southeast Asia if necessary. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: The Select Committee
was directed to report not later than one year after adoption of
the establishing resolution (September 11, 1976). The authority of
the Select Committee was scheduled to expire ninety days after
submission of the final report.
Extensions: Extended to January 3, 1977, by H. Res. 1454 on
August 2, 1976.
Actual termination: Final report submitted to the House on
December 13, 1976. [Authority of Select Committee expired prior to
noon on Jan. 3, 1977, under terms of H. Res. 1454.]
[[Page 2584]]
Select Committee on Professional Sports
Date of creation.--May 18, 1976.
Citation.--H. Res. 1186; 94th Congress, 2d Session (adopted by
a voice vote).
Membership.--Number of members: 13. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee on Professional
Sports was authorized ``to conduct an inquiry into the need for
legislation with respect to professional sports.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None.
Legislative authority: None.
Authority to report: The Select Committee was directed to
report to the House on the results of its inquiry as soon as
practicable during the 94th Congress.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Yes. . . .
Termination.--Original termination: End of 94th Congress.
Extensions: None. On January 13, 1977, Mr. Sisk and others
introduced H. Res. 111, a resolution to reestablish the Select
Committee on Professional Sports for the 95th Congress. The House
Committee on Rules reported favorably on this resolution on March
3, 1977. However, on March 7, 1977, the measure was rejected by the
House on a rollcall vote of 75-271.
Actual termination: Final report submitted to the House on
January 3, 1977. . . .
Select Committee on Narcotics Abuse and Control
Date of creation.--July 29, 1976.
Citation.--H. Res. 1350; 94th Congress, 2d Session (adopted by
a vote of 360-10). H. Res. 77; 95th Congress, 1st Session, January
11, 1977 (adopted by a voice vote).
Membership.--Number of members: 18. . . .
Mode of selecting members: The establishing resolution
specified that the members of the Select Committee be appointed by
the Speaker and that at least one member be chosen from each by the
following committees: the Committee on Armed Services, the
Committee on Government Operations, the Committee on International
Relations, the Committee on Interstate and Foreign Commerce, the
Committee on the Judiciary, the Committee on Merchant Marine and
Fisheries, and the Committee on Ways and Means. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee on Narcotics Abuse
and Control was authorized: ``(1) To conduct a continuing
comprehensive study and review of the problems of narcotics abuse
and control, including, but not limited to, international
trafficking, enforcement, prevention, narcotics-related violations
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, international treaties,
organized crime, drug abuse in the Armed Forces of the United
States, treatment and rehabilitation, and the approach of the
criminal justice system with respect to narcotics law violations
and crimes relating to drug abuse; and (2) to review any
recommendations made by the President, or by any department or
agency of the executive branch of the Federal Government, relating
to programs or policies affecting narcotics abuse or control.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None to date.
Legislative authority: None.
[[Page 2585]]
Authority to report: The Select Committee was directed to
submit an annual report to the House summarizing its activities and
to submit additional reports on the results of its investigations.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Yes. . . .
Special authorities: The Select Committee was authorized to hold
field hearings and inspections. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: Not specified in
establishing resolution.
Extensions: Reauthorized by H. Res. 77 on January 11, 1977, for
the 95th Congress.
Actual termination: Still in existence in the 95th Congress. .
. .
Select Committee To Investigate the Circumstances Surrounding the
Death of John F. Kennedy and the Death of Martin Luther King
(Also known as the Select Committee on Assassinations)
Date of creation.--September 17, 1976.
Citation.--H. Res. 1540; 94th Congress, 2d Session (adopted by
a vote of 280-65). H. Res. 222; 95th Congress, 1st Session,
February 2, 1977 (adopted by vote of 237-164). H. Res. 433, 95th
Congress, 1st Session, March 30, 1977 (adopted by vote of 230-181).
Membership.--Number of members: 12. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee was authorized to
``conduct a full and complete investigation and study of the
circumstances surrounding the death of John F. Kennedy and the
death of Martin Luther King, Junior, and of any others the select
committee shall determine.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: H. Res. 222,
which reauthorized the Select Committee for the 95th Congress,
expanded its jurisdiction to include an ``investigation and study
of the circumstances surrounding the assassination and death of
President John F. Kennedy and the assassination and death of Martin
Luther King, Junior, and of any other persons the select committee
shall determine might be related to either death in order to
ascertain: (1) Whether the existing laws relating to the safety and
protection of the President of the United States, assassinations of
the President of the United States, deprivation of civil rights,
and conspiracies related thereto, as well as the investigatory
jurisdiction and capability of agencies and departments of the
United States Government, are adequate either in their provisions
or in the manner of their enforcement; and (2) whether there was
full disclosure and sharing of information and evidence among
agencies and departments of the United States Government during the
course of all prior investigations into those deaths; and whether
any evidence or information which was not in the possession of any
agency or department of the United States Government investigating
either death would have been of assistance to that agency or
department, and why such information was not provided to or
collected by the appropriate agency or department; and shall make
recommendations to the House, if the select committee deems it
appropriate, for the amendments of existing legisla
[[Page 2586]]
tion or the enactment of new legislation.'' H. Res. 222 also
directed that the Select Committee adopt written rules of procedure
consistent with the House Rules and the establishing resolution.
Legislative authority: None.
Authority to report: The establishing resolution directed the
Select Committee to submit a report to the House on the results of
its investigation as soon as practicable during the 94th Congress.
H. Res. 222 extended the life of the Select Committee to March 31,
1977. On March 30, 1977, the House approved H. Res. 433 which
extended the life of the Select Committee for the duration of the
95th Congress.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Yes. . . .
Special authorities: The Select Committee was authorized by H.
Res. 222 to ``take testimony on oath anywhere within the United
States or in any other country and to authorize designated counsel
for the select committee to obtain statements from any witness who
is placed under oath by an authority who is authorized to
administer oaths in accordance with the applicable laws of the
United States or of any State . . . .'' [The House by resolution
authorized a select committee to make applications to courts and to
bring and defend lawsuits arising out of witnesses' refusals to
comply with committee subpenas and court immunity orders. In this
instance, where the Select Committee on Assassinations had been
established by resolution and given the authority conferred on
standing committees by law to request immunity orders in court for
witnesses, the Committee on Rules reported as privileged and the
House adopted a subsequent resolution permitting that committee to
make applications to courts and to bring and defend, but not to
intervene in, lawsuits in support of committee subpenas and court
immunity orders, when authorized by a majority of the committee. H.
Res. 760, 95th Cong. 1st Sess., Sept. 28, 1977.] The chairman of
the Select Committee was authorized to establish subcommittees as
he considers appropriate. H. Res. 222 also specified that ``[T]he
select committee shall be considered a committee of the House of
Representatives for all purposes of law, including but not limited
to section 102 of the Revised Statutes of the United States (2
U.S.C. 192); and sections 6002 and 6005 of title 18, United States
Code, or any other Act of Congress regulating the granting of
immunity to witnesses.''. . .
Termination.--Original termination date: End of 94th Congress.
Extensions: Extended to March 31, 1977, by H. Res. 222 on
February 2 1977. Extended to the end of the 95th Congress by H.
Res. 433 on March 30, 1977.
Actual termination: Still in existence in the 95th Congress. .
. .
Select Committee on Ethics
Date of creation.--March 9, 1977.
Citation.--H. Res. 383; 95th Congress, 1st Session (adopted by
a vote of 410-1).
Membership.--Number of members: 19. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee on Ethics was
authorized to ``consider and . . . report to the House on any bills
or resolutions which may
[[Page 2587]]
include provisions incorporating and integrating into permanent law
applicable provisions and appropriate modifications of rule XLIII,
rule XLIV, rule XLV, rule XLVI, and rule XLVII of the Rules of the
House of Representatives, and which may hereafter be referred to
the Select Committee by the Speaker. The select committee shall
have jurisdiction over the bills and resolutions referred to it.''
The Select Committee was also authorized ``to adopt regulations,
and issue advisory opinions, regarding the application of rules
XLIII-XLVII of the Rules of the House.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None.
Legislative authority: Yes.
Authority to report: The establishing resolution specified that
the authority of the Select Committee on Ethics to report bills and
resolutions referred to it shall expire on September 30, 1977. The
Select Committee is scheduled to expire on December 31, 1977. Its
records will be transferred to the House Committee on Standards of
Official Conduct.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Yes. . . .
Special authority: Whenever appropriate, clauses 1, 2, and 3 of
rule XI of the House rules apply to the Select Committee on Ethics.
Rule XI governs rules of procedures for House committees generally
and clauses 1, 2, and 3 relate to committee rules, committee
records, and broadcasting of committee hearings. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: The authority to
report bills and resolutions expires on September 30, 1977. The
establishing resolution specified that the Select Committee shall
adopt regulations necessary for the application of rules XLIII-
XLVII by December 1, 1977. The Select Committee on Ethics is
scheduled to expire on December 31, 1977.
Extensions: [The committee and its functions were extended
through the ``completion of its official business'' in the 95th
Congress (H. Res. 871, Oct. 31, 1977).]
Actual termination: Still in existence.
Select Committee on Congressional Operations
Date of creation.--March 28, 1977.
Citation.--H. Res. 420; 95th Congress, 1st Session (adopted by
a vote of 211-147.)
Membership.--Number of members: 7. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Select Committee was authorized to
continue the work of the Joint Committee on Congressional
Operations for the House, by:
``(1) Making a continuing study of the organization and
operation of the Congress of the United States and recommending
improvements in such organization and operation with a view toward
strengthening the Congress, simplifying its operations, developing
cooperation between the Houses of Congress, improving its
relationship with other branches of the United States Government,
and enabling it to meet its responsibilities under the Constitution
of the United States.
``(2) Identifying any court proceeding or action which, in the
opinion of the select committee, is of vital interest to the
Congress, or to the House of Representatives as a constitutionally
es
[[Page 2588]]
tablished institution of the Federal Government, and calling such
proceeding or action to the attention of the House.
``(3) Conducting a continuing study of the jurisdiction of the
various standing committees of the House of Representatives and
their relative workloads, and of ways of rationalizing committee
jurisdictions between the two Houses of Congress, and reporting to
the Committee on Rules any recommendations on the more equitable
distribution of workload or the more rational combination of
jurisdictional responsibilities.''
The Select Committee on Congressional Operations is directed to
``avoid conflict or duplication with the activities of other
committees, commissions, or other entities established by the
House.''
The Select Committee is also authorized to ``supervise and
control the functions, as they relate to the House, of the Office
of Placement and Office Management established by section 406 of
the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1970.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None.
Legislative authority: None. H. Res. 420 provides that nothing
in the resolution except as specifically provided in subsection (a)
(3) ``shall be construed to authorize the Select Committee to make
any recommendations with respect to the rules, parliamentary
procedure, practices, or precedents of the House, or the
consideration of any matter on the floor of the House, nor shall
anything . . . be construed to authorize the Select Committee to
operate or supervise a permanent system for the broadcast coverage
of the proceedings of the House without the express and prior
approval of the House.''
Authority to report: The Select Committee was authorized to
report its recommendations on ``the more equitable distribution of
workload or the more rational combination of jurisdictional
responsibilities.''
Authority.--Authority to issue subpenas: [A committee amendment
to II. Res. 420 removed the subpena power granted to the select
committee in the original resolution as introduced, by making
clauses 1 through 3 of Rule XI applicable ``insofar as
applicable,'' inasmuch as clause 2(m)(1) [Sec. 718, House Rules and
Manual, (1977)] only authorizes subpena power to committees in
carrying out functions under Rules X and XI, and the select
committee was not incorporated into the provisions of Rule X.]
Special authorities: The provisions of rule XI, clauses 1, 2,
and 3, whenever applicable, shall apply to the Select Committee.
The Select Committee is directed to adopt written rules of
procedure which shall not be inconsistent with the House rules. . .
.
Termination.--Original termination date: Not specified.
Extensions: None.
Actual termination: Still in existence in the 95th Congress. .
. .
AD Hoc Committee on Energy
Date of creation.--April 21, 1977.
Citation.--H. Res. 508; 95th Congress, 1st Session [adopted by
a voice vote upon being called up as privileged from the floor
pursuant to the Speaker's authority under Rule X clause 5(c) to
create ad hoc select committees with approval of the House].
[[Page 2589]]
Membership.--Number of members: 37 (increased to 40 by H. Res.
509). . . .
Mode of selecting members: H. Res. 508 directed that the Ad Hoc
Committee on Energy be composed of members appointed by the Speaker
``from those committees of the House which he determines have
subject-matter jurisdiction over the substance of the President's
Message, and from such other committees as the Speaker may
determine so as to insure the expeditious consideration and
reporting of appropriate legislation.''. . .
Functions.--Mandate: The Ad Hoc Committee on Energy was
authorized ``to consider and report to the House on the Message of
the President dated April 20, 1977 (H. Doc. 95-128), on other
messages or communications related thereto, and on any bill or
resolution which the Speaker may sequentially refer thereto which
the Speaker determines relates to the substance of the President's
Message: Provided, however, that this paragraph shall not preclude
initial reference to the ad hoc Committee of a bill or resolution
incorporating the recommendations of the committees with subject-
matter jurisdiction over the substance of the President's
Message.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None.
Legislative authority: Yes.
Authority to report: The Ad Hoc Committee was authorized to
report to the House by bill or otherwise and shall expire ``upon
completion of the legislative process, including final disposition
of any veto message, with respect to all legislation referred to
the ad hoc Committee.''
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Yes.
Provisions regarding staffing: The Ad Hoc Committee on Energy
was authorized by H. Res. 508 to ``utilize the services of the
staffs of those committees of the House from which Members have
been selected for membership on the ad hoc Committee.''. . .
Termination.--Original termination date: Not specified in
establishing resolution; however, subsequent funding resolutions
contained expiration dates for the authorization granted to the
committee. Thus, H. Res. 1051 (95th Cong. 2d Sess.) stipulated that
such authorization would expire just prior to noon on Jan. 3, 1979,
or upon completion of the legislative process with respect to
legislation referred to the committee.
Extensions: None.
Actual termination: Still in existence as of 95th Cong. 2d
Sess. . . .
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence
Date of creation.--July 14, 1977.
Citation.--H. Res. 658; 95th Congress, 1st Session (adopted by
a vote of 229-169); adding new Rule XLVIII to standing rules.
Membership.--Number of members: 13. . . .
Mode of selecting members: The thirteen members of the Select
Committee shall include at least one member from the Committee on
Appropriations, the Committee on Armed Services, the Committee on
International Relations, and the Committee on the Judiciary. The
establishing resolution specified that the majority and minority
leaders of the House be ex officio members of
[[Page 2590]]
the Select Committee but shall not be counted for purposes of
determining a quorum. Service on the Select Committee is limited to
six years, exclusive of service during the 95th Congress. Beginning
with the 97th Congress and every Congress thereafter, at least four
of the members appointed to the Committee shall be Members with no
previous service on the Select Committee on Intelligence.
Mode of selecting chairman: Not specified in establishing
resolution; however, all Select Committee appointments are made by
the Speaker.
Functions.--Mandate: The House Select Committee on
Intelligence, established in accordance with H. Res. 591 on July
17, 1975, recommended that the House establish a permanent Select
Committee on Intelligence with legislative, budgetary, and
supervisory authority over all foreign and domestic intelligence
gathering activities of the United States Government. H. Res. 658
established the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence to
oversee, make continuing studies, and reports to the House (by
legislation or otherwise) appropriate proposals concerning the
intelligence and intelligence-related programs and activities of
the United States Government.
The Select Committee was authorized to consider ''all proposed
legislation, messages, petitions, memorials, and other matters
relating to the following:
``(1) The Central Intelligence Agency and the Director of
Central Intelligence.
``(2) Intelligence and intelligence-related activities of all
other departments and agencies of the Government, including, but
not limited to, the intelligence and intelligence-related
activities of the Defense Intelligence Agency, the National
Security Agency, and other agencies of the Department of Defense;
the Department of State; the Department of Justice; and the
Department of the Treasury.
``(3) The organization or reorganization of any department or
agency of the Government to the extent that the organization or
reorganization related to a function or activity involving
intelligence or intelligence-related activities.
``(4) Authorizations for appropriations, both direct and
indirect, for the following: (a) the Central Intelligence Agency
and Director of Central Intelligence; (b) the Defense Intelligence
Agency; (c) the National Security Agency; (d) the intelligence and
intelligence-related activities of other agencies and subdivisions
of the Department of Defense; (e) the intelligence and
intelligence-related activities of the Department of State; and (f)
the intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the Federal
Bureau of Investigation including all activities of the
Intelligence Division.''
These provisions also apply to successors of the above-named
agencies. The Select Committee was directed to report to the House
on the nature and extent of the intelligence and intelligence-
related activities of Federal Departments and agencies. The Select
Committee was also directed to conduct a study regarding specified
aspects of intelligence and intelligence-related activities.
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None.
[[Page 2591]]
Legislative authority: Yes.
Authority to report: For the purposes of accountability to the
House, the Select Committee is authorized to ``make regular and
periodic reports to the House on the nature and extent of the
intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the various
departments and agencies of the United States.'' The Select
Committee is directed to call to the attention of the House or any
House Committee appropriate matters requiring the attention of the
House of Representatives. In making these reports to the House, the
Select Committee should follow procedures consistent with section 7
of H. Res. 658 concerning the public disclosure of information. The
Select Committee is directed to report on the study performed in
accordance with section 3 of H. Res. 658 no later than the close of
the 95th Congress.
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: Yes. . . .
Special authorities: Section 7 established procedures by which
the Committee can recommend public disclosure of information
previously considered classified. [Special authority was also given
to determine Members' access to executive session records on an ad
hoc basis, as an exception from Rule XI clause 2 which gives all
Members access to other committees' files.]
Termination.--Original termination date: As a permanent Select
Committee, it may only be terminated by an amendment to the House
rules.
Extension: None.
Actual termination: Still in existence.
Select Committee on Population
Date of creation.--September 28, 1977.
Citation.--H. Res. 70; 95th Congress, 1st Session (adopted by a
recorded vote of 258-147).
Membership.--Number of members: 16. . . .
Functions.--Mandate: H. Res. 70 authorized the creation of the
Select Committee ``to conduct a full and complete investigation and
study of--
``(1) The causes of changing population conditions and their
consequences for the United States and the world;
``(2) National, regional, and global population characteristics
relative to the demands on limited resources and ability of nations
to feed, clothe, house, educate, employ, and govern their citizens
and otherwise afford them an improved standard of living;
``(3) Various approaches to population planning (including the
study of family planning technology, with emphasis on measures
designed to reduce the frequency of conception rather than the
termination of pregnancy, and the relationship of improved economic
and social opportunities to family size) in order to ascertain
those policies and programs, within the United States as well as
other nations, which would be most effective in coping with
unplanned population change; and
``(4) The means by which the United States Government can most
effectively cooperate with and assist nations and international
agencies in addressing successfully, in a noncoercive manner,
various national, regional, and global population-related issues.''
Significant changes in mandate during lifetime: None.
Legislative authority: None.
Authority to report: The Select Committee on Population is
authorized by
[[Page 2592]]
H. Res. 70 to make a report on the results of its investigation and
study as soon as practicable during the 95th Congress. H. Res. 70
also directs that any report of the Select Committee ``be referred
to the committee or committees which have jurisdiction over the
subject matter. . . .''
Authority.--Authority to issue subpoenas: No. . . .
Special authorities: The provisions of rule XI, clauses 1, 2,
and 3 of the rules of the House which relate to rules of procedures
for House committees also to apply to the Select Committee.
However, clause 2(m) of the House rules relating to subpoena power
does not apply to the Select Committee on Population. . . .
Termination.--Original termination date: End of 95th Congress.
Extensions: None. -------------------
Campaign Practices and Expenditures
Sec. 6.1 In a number of Congresses, the House has by a privileged
resolution established a special committee to investigate campaign
practices and expenditures.
On Aug. 4, 1970,(13) by direction of the Committee on
Rules, Mr. Thomas P.O'Neill, Jr., of Massachusetts, called up and asked
for immediate consideration of the following resolution (H. Res. 1062):
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
13. 116 Cong Rec. 27125, 91st Cong. 2d Sess.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Resolved, That a special committee of five Members be appointed
by the Speaker of the House of Representatives to investigate and
report to the House not later than January 11, 1971, with respect
to the following matters:
(1) The extent and nature of expenditures made by all
candidates for the House of Representatives in connection with
their campaign for nomination and election to such office.
(2) The amount subscribed, contributed, or expended, and the
value of services rendered, and facilities made available
(including personal services, use of advertising space, radio and
television time, office space, moving picture films, and automobile
and any other transportation facilities) by any individual,
individuals, or group of individuals, committee, partnership,
corporation, or labor union, to or on behalf of each such candidate
in connection with any such campaign or for the purpose of
influencing the votes cast or to be cast at any convention or
election held in 1970 to which a candidate for the House of
Representatives is to be nominated or elected.
(3) The use of any other means or influence (including the
promise or use of patronage) for the purpose of aiding or
influencing the nomination or election of any such candidates.
(4) The amounts, if any, raised, contributed, and expended by
any individual, individuals, or group of individuals, committee,
partnership, corporation, or labor union, including any political
committee thereof, in connection with any such election, and the
amounts received by any political committee from any corporation,
labor union, individual, individuals, or group of individuals,
committee, or partnership.
[[Page 2593]]
(5) The violations, if any, of the following statutes of the
United States:
(a) The Federal Corrupt Practices Act.
(b) The Act of August 2, 1939, as amended, relating to
pernicious political activities, commonly referred to as the Hatch
Act.
(c) The provisions of section 304, chapter 120, Public Law 101,
Eightieth Congress, first session, referred to as the Labor-
Management Relations Act, 1947.
(d) Any statute or legislative Act of the United States or of
the State within which a candidate is seeking nomination or
reelection to the House of Representatives, the violation of which
Federal or State statute, or statutes, would affect the
qualification of a Member of the House of Representatives within
the meaning of article I, section 5, of the Constitution of the
United States.
(6) Such other matters relating to the election of Members of
the House of Representatives in 1970, and the campaigns of
candidates in connection therewith, as the committee deems to be of
public interest, and which, in its opinion, will aid the House of
Representatives in enacting remedial legislation, or in deciding
contests that may be instituted involving the right to a seat in
the House of Representatives.
(7) The committee is authorized to act upon its own motion and
upon such information as in its judgment may be reasonable or
reliable. Upon complaint being made to the committee under oath, by
any person, candidate or political committee, setting forth
allegations as to facts which, under this resolution, it would be
the duty of said committee to investigate, the committee shall
investigate such charges as fully as though it were acting upon its
own motion, unless, after a hearing upon such complaint, the
committee shall find that the allegations in such complaint are
immaterial or untrue. All hearings before the committee, and before
any duly authorized subcommittee thereof, shall be public, and all
orders and decisions of the committee, and of any such
subcommittee, shall be public.
For the purpose of this resolution, the committee or any duly
authorized subcommittee thereof, is authorized to hold such public
hearings, to sit and act at such times and places during the
sessions, recesses, and adjourned periods of the Ninety-first
Congress, to employ such attorneys, experts, clerical, and other
assistants, to require by subpoena or otherwise the attendance of
such witnesses and the production of such correspondence, books,
papers, and documents, to administer such oaths, and to take such
testimony as it deems advisable. Subpeonas may be issued under the
signature of the chairman of the committee or any subcommittee, or
by any member designated by such chairman, and may be served by any
person designated by any such chairman or member.
(8) The committee is authorized and directed to report promptly
any and all violations of any Federal or State statutes in
connection with the matters and things mentioned herein to the
Attorney General of the United States in order that he may take
such official action as may be proper.
(9) Every person who, having been summoned as a witness by
authority of said committee or any subcommittee
[[Page 2594]]
thereof, willfully makes default, or who, having appeared, refuses
to answer any question pertinent to the investigation heretofore
authorized, shall be held to the penalties prescribed by law.
That said committee is authorized and directed to file interim
reports whenever in the judgment of the majority of the committee,
or of the subcommittee conducting portions of said investigation,
the public interest will be best served by the filing of said
interim reports, and in no event shall the final report of said
committee be filed later than January 11, 1971, as hereinabove
provided.
Shortly thereafter,(14) the resolution was agreed to.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
14. Id. at p. 27126.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Parliamentarian's Note: In recent years no such committee has been
established,(15) since the Committee on House Administration
(with jurisdiction over campaign activities) now has standing
investigatory and subpena authority (see Ch. 8, Sec. 14, supra). In the
past, however, resolutions to establish such special committees had
been a common occurrence.(16)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
15. See Sec. 5.6, supra, however, where a select committee was
authorized to investigate certain campaign violations jointly
with the Clerk of the House. See also Ch. 8, Sec. 14, supra.
16. See, for example, 114 Cong. Rec. 25065, 90th Cong. 2d Sess., Aug.
2, 1968 [resolution providing for payment from the contingent
fund of expenses of the Select Committee to Investigate
Campaign Expenditures]; 114 Cong. Rec. 24770, 90th Cong. 2d
Sess., Aug. 1, 1968 [H. Res. 1239, authorizing the Speaker to
appoint a Special Committee on Campaign Expenditures]; 112
Cong. Rec. 19080, 89th Cong. 2d Sess., Aug. 11, 1966 [H. Res.
929, authorizing the Speaker to appoint a Special Committee on
Campaign Expenditures]; and 108 Cong. Rec. 16000, 16012, 87th
Cong. 2d Sess., Aug. 9, 1962 [H. Res. 753].
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Crime Affecting the United States
Sec. 6.2 By resolution reported from the Committee on Rules, the House
created a select committee to investigate crime affecting the
United States.
On Mar. 9, 1971,(17) Speaker Carl Albert, of Oklahoma,
recognized Mr. John A. Young, of Texas, who stated:
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17. 117 Cong. Rec. 5587, 92d Cong. 1st Sess.
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Mr. Speaker, by direction of the Committee on Rules, I call up
House Resolution 115 and ask for its immediate consideration.
The Clerk then read House Resolution 115, as follows:
(18)
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18. Id. at pp. 5587, 5588.
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Resolved, That, effective January 3, 1971, there is hereby
created a select committee to be composed of seven Members of the
House of Representatives to be appointed by the Speaker,
[[Page 2595]]
one of whom he shall designate as chairman. Any vacancy occurring
in the membership of the select committee shall be filled in the
same manner in which the original appointment was made.
Sec. 2. The select committee is authorized and directed to
conduct a full and complete investigation and study of all aspects
of crime affecting the United States, including, but not limited
to, (1) its elements, causes, and extent; (2) the preparation,
collection, and dissemination of statistics and data; (3) the
sharing of information, statistics, and data among law enforcement
agencies, Federal, State, and local, including the exchange of
information, statistics, and data with foreign nations; (4) the
adequacy of law enforcement and the administration of justice,
including constitutional issues and problems pertaining thereto;
(5) the effect of crime and disturbances in the metropolitan urban
areas; (6) the effect, directly or indirectly, of crime on the
commerce of the Nation; (7) the treatment and rehabilitation of
persons convicted of crimes; (8) measures relating to the
reduction, control, or prevention of crime; (9) measures relating
to the improvement of (A) investigation and detection of crime, (B)
law enforcement techniques, including, but not limited to,
increased cooperation among the law enforcement agencies, and (C)
the effective administration of justice; and (10) measures and
programs for increased respect for the law and constituted
authority.
Sec. 3. For the purpose of carrying out this resolution the
select committee, or any subcommittee thereof authorized by the
select committee, is authorized to sit and act during the present
Congress at such times and places within the United States,
including any Commonwealth or possession thereof, whether the House
is in session, has recessed, or has adjourned, to hold such
hearings and conduct such investigations, and to require, by
subpena, the attendance and testimony of such witnesses and the
production of such books, records, correspondence, memorandums,
papers, and documents, as it deems necessary. Subpenas may be
issued under the signature of the chairman of the select committee
or any member of the select committee designated by him, and may be
served by any person designated by such chairman or member.
Sec. 4. The select committee shall report to the House as soon
as practicable during the present Congress the results of its
investigations, hearings, and studies, together with such
recommendations as it deems advisable. Any such report or reports
which are made when the House is not in session shall be filed with
the Clerk of the House.
With the following committee amendments:
On page 1, line 2, strike the word ``seven'' and insert in lieu
thereof the word ``eleven''.
Beginning on page 2, line 19, strike all through page 3, line
9, and insert in lieu thereof the following:
``Sec. 3. For the purpose of making such investigations and
studies, the committee or any subcommittee thereof is authorized to
sit and act, subject to clause 31 of Rule XI of the Rules of the
House of Representatives, during the present Congress at such times
and places within the United States,
[[Page 2596]]
including any Commonwealth or possession thereof, whether the House
is meeting, has recessed, or has adjourned, and to hold such
hearings and require, by subpena or otherwise, the attendance and
testimony of such witnesses and the production of such books,
records, correspondence, memorandums, papers, and documents, as it
deems necessary. Subpenas may be issued over the signature of the
chairman of the committee or any member designated by him and may
be served by any person designated by such chairman or member.''
As the ensuing discussion revealed, the select committee was
initially created on May 1, 1969,(19) and proceeded to
investigate, hold hearings, and publish reports for the remaining 20
months of that Congress. The crux of the debate centered on whether the
nature of the committee's investigation warranted the costs involved.
When the previous question on the resolution was
ordered,(20) however, the House agreed to adopt the
resolution by voice vote.(1)
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19. See 115 Cong. Rec. 11101, 91st Cong. 1st Sess.
20. 117 Cong. Rec. 5610, 92d Cong. 1st Sess., Mar. 9, 1971.
1. See also Sec. 5.5, supra.
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Conduct of House Members, Officers and Employees
Sec. 6.3 By resolution reported from the Committee on Rules, the House
created a Select Committee on Standards and Conduct.
On Sept. 7, 1966,(2) Mr. Claude D. Pepper, of Florida, a
member of the Committee on Rules, reported the following privileged
resolution (H. Res. 1013) which was referred to the House Calendar and
ordered to be printed:
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2. 112 Cong. Rec. 21949, 89th Cong. 2d Sess.
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Resolved, That (a) there is hereby established a select
committee of the House of Representatives to be known as the Select
Committee on Standards and Conduct (referred to hereinafter as the
``Select Committee'') consisting of twelve Members of the House of
whom six shall be selected from members of the majority party and
six shall be selected from members of the minority party. The
chairman and other members thereof shall be appointed by the
Speaker of the House of Representatives.
(b) Vacancies in the membership of the Select Committee shall
not affect the authority of the remaining members to execute the
functions of the Select Committee, and shall be filled in the same
manner as original appointments thereto are made.
(c) A majority of the members of the Select Committee shall
constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, except that
the Select Committee may fix a lesser number as a quorum for the
purpose of taking sworn testimony. The Select Committee shall adopt
rules of procedure not inconsistent with the
[[Page 2597]]
rules of the House governing standing committees of the House.
Sec. 2. (a) It shall be the duty of the Select Committee in its
discretion to--
(1) investigate allegations of improper conduct which may
reflect upon the House, violations of law, and violations of rules
and regulations of the House, relating to the conduct of
individuals in the performance of their duties as Members of the
House, or as officers or employees of the House, and to make
appropriate findings of fact and conclusions with respect thereto;
(2) recommend to the House, by report or resolution by a two-
thirds vote (eight members) of the Select Committee, disciplinary
action to be taken with respect to such violations which the Select
Committee shall determine, after according to the individuals
concerned due notice and opportunity for hearing, to have occurred;
(b) the Select Committee from time to time shall transmit to
the House its recommendations as to any legislative measures which
it may consider to be necessary for the effective discharge of its
duties.
Sec. 3. For the purpose of this resolution the Select Committee
or any subcommittee thereof is authorized to sit and act during the
present Congress at such times and places within the United States,
whether or not the House has recessed or adjourned, to hold such
hearings, to require the attendance of such witnesses and the
production of such books, papers, and documents, and to take such
testimony as the Select Committee deems necessary. Subpenas may be
issued under the signature of the chairman of the Select Committee
or by any member designated by such chairman and may be served by
any person designated by such chairman or member. The chairman of
the Select Committee or any member thereof may administer oaths to
witnesses.
Sec. 4. As used in this resolution, the term ``officer or
employee of the House'' means--
(a) an elected officer of the House of Representatives who is
not a Member of the House;
(b) any person whose compensation is disbursed by the Clerk of
the House.
Six weeks later, on Oct. 19, 1966,(3) by direction of
the Committee on Rules, Mr. Pepper called up House Resolution 1013 and
asked for its present consideration. A proposed committee amendment
requiring that any allegation referred to in paragraph (1) be made
under oath and state the facts on which it is based was agreed to by
unanimous consent.
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3. Id. at pp. 27713, 27714.
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However, an additional amendment was later proposed by Mr. Wayne L.
Hays, of Ohio, to section 2 of the resolution, which the Clerk read, as
follows: (4)
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4. Id. at p. 27727.
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Amendment offered by Mr. Hays: On page 2, strike out line 12
through line 25, and on page 3 lines 1, 2, and 3, and insert ``(1)
recommend to the House, by report or resolution such additional
rules or regulations as the select committee shall determine to be
necessary or desirable to insure proper standards
[[Page 2598]]
of conduct by Members of the House and by officers or employees of
the House, in the performance of their duties, and the discharge of
their responsibilities; and
(2) report violations, by a majority vote of the select
committee, of any law to the proper Federal and State
authorities.''
Discussion ensued, after which the question was put on the Hays
amendment,(5) and it was agreed to. Immediately thereafter,
the resolution, as amended, was agreed to.
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5. Id. at p. 27729.
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Government Research Investigation
Sec. 6.4 In the 88th Congress, the House established a Select Committee
on Research and Development.
On Sept. 11, 1963,(6) following discussion of the
proposal,(7) the House agreed to the following resolution
(H. Res. 504):
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6. 109 Cong. Rec. 16754, 88th Cong. 1st Sess.
7. See Sec. 5.2, supra, for details.
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Resolved, That there is hereby created a select committee to be
composed of nine Members of the House of Representatives to be
appointed by the Speaker, one of whom he shall designate as
chairman. Any vacancy occurring in the membership of the committee
shall be filled in the manner in which the original appointment was
made.
The said committee is directed to make a complete, full, and
thorough investigation of the numerous research programs being
conducted by sundry departments and agencies of the Federal
Government and, without limiting the generality of the foregoing,
the committee shall give special attention to the following: (1)
the overall total amount of annual expenditures on research
programs; (2) what departments and agencies of the Government are
conducting research and at what costs; (3) the amounts being
expended by the various agencies and departments in grants and
contracts for research to colleges, private industry, and every
form of student scholarships; (4) what facilities, if any, exist
for coordinating the various and sundry research programs,
including grants to colleges and universities as well as
scholarship grants.
In order that this investigation of the numerous research
programs may be better coordinated, without limiting the scope of
the said committee's investigation, it is directed, among other
investigative procedures, to make use of information currently
available in the various committees of Congress which have
legislative jurisdiction over Government research activities to the
end that the said select committee may be able to recommend the
necessary legislation to coordinate and prevent unjustifiable
duplication in the numerous projects and activities of the
Government relating to scientific research.
The committee shall report its findings to the House with such
recommended legislation as the committee may deem appropriate to
correct any deficiencies. The committee shall make such reports to
the House
[[Page 2599]]
prior to December 1, 1964, and may submit such interim reports as
it deems advisable. Any reports submitted when the House is not in
session may be filed with the Clerk of the House.
For the purposes of this resolution the committee, or any
subcommittee thereof, is authorized to sit and act during the
present Congress at such times and places within the United States,
whether or not the House has recessed or adjourned, to hold such
hearings, to require the attendance of such witnesses and the
production of such books, papers, and documents, and to take such
testimony as the committee deems necessary. Subpenas may be issued
under the signature of the chairman of the committee or any
properly designated chairman of a subcommittee, or any member
designated by him and may be served by any person designated by
such chairman or member. The chairman of the committee or any
member thereof may administer oaths to witnesses.
The majority of the members of the committee shall constitute a
quorum for the transaction of business, except two or more shall
constitute a quorum for the purpose of taking of evidence including
sworn testimony.
U.S. Military Involvement in Southeast Asia
Sec. 6.5 In the 91st Congress, the House agreed to establish a select
committee to investigate U.S. military involvement in Southeast
Asia.
On June 8, 1970,(8) by direction of the Committee on
Rules, Mr. William R. Anderson, of Tennessee, called up House
Resolution 976. The resolution provided for the creation of a select
committee to investigate all aspects of the U.S. military involvement
in Southeast Asia.
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8. 116 Cong. Rec. 18656, 91st Cong. 2d Sess.
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After agreement to several committee amendments,(9) the
resolution read as follows:
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9. Id. at pp. 18657, 18658.
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Resolved, That--
(1) The Speaker of the House shall appoint a select committee
of twelve Members of the House, six of which shall be from the
majority party and six from the minority party, as follows: two
from the Armed Services Committee, two from the Foreign Affairs
Committee, and eight from the House at large and shall designate
one Member to serve as chairman. The select committee shall
immediately proceed to Southeast Asia to investigate all aspects of
the United States military involvement in Southeast Asia. The
select committee shall, within forty-five days of the adoption of
this resolution, report to the House the results of its
investigation.
(2) For the purpose of carrying out this resolution the
committee is authorized to sit and act during the present Congress
at such times and places as it deems appropriate whether the House
is sitting, has recessed, or has adjourned.
(3) The select committee may appoint and fix the compensation
of such clerks, experts, consultants, technicians, and clerical and
stenographic as
[[Page 2600]]
sistants as it deems necessary and advisable. The select committee
is authorized to reimburse the members of its staff for travel,
subsistence, and other necessary expenses incurred by them in the
performance of the duties vested in the select committee other than
expenses in connection with meetings of the select committee held
in the District of Columbia.
(4) The expenses of the select committee shall be paid from the
contingent fund of the House of Representatives upon vouchers
signed by the chairman of the select committee.
Following debate, the House agreed to the resolution by a yea and
nay vote--yeas 224, nays 101.(10)
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10. Id. at p. 18669.
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Small Business
Sec. 6.6 By privileged resolution, reported from the Committee on
Rules, the House established a permanent Select Committee on Small
Business.
On Mar. 2, 1971,(11) Mr. Richard Bolling, of Missouri,
was recognized by Speaker Carl Albert, of Oklahoma, and called up House
Resolution 19 for immediate consideration.
The resolution, as amended by the committee, read (12)
as follows: (13)
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11. 117 Cong. Rec. 4593, 92d Cong. 1st Sess.
12. House Resolution 19 in it original form may be found id. at pp.
4593, 4594.
13. Id. at p. 4594.
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That, effective January 3, 1971, there is created a permanent
Select Committee on Small Business (which is not a standing
committee of the House3 to be composed of nineteen Members of the
House of Representatives to be appointed by the Speaker, one of
whom he shall designate as chairman. Any vacancy occurring in the
membership of the committee shall be filled in the manner in which
the original appointment was made.
Sec. 2. It shall be the duty of such committee to conduct
studies and investigations of the problems of all types of small
business, existing, arising, or that may arise, with particular
reference to--
(1) the factors which have impeded or may impede the normal
operations, growth, and development of small business;
(2) the administration of Federal laws relating specifically to
small business in order to determine (A) whether such laws and
their administration adequately serve the needs of small business,
and (B) whether Government agencies adequately serve and give due
consideration to the problems of small business; and
(3) the problems of small business enterprises generally;
and to obtain all facts possible in relation thereto which would
not only be of public interest but which would aid the Congress in
enacting remedial legislation. However, the committee shall not
undertake any investigation of any subject which is being
investigated for the same purpose by any other committee of the
House.
Sec. 3. Such committee shall not have legislative jurisdiction
but is au
[[Page 2601]]
thorized to make studies, investigations, and reports; however, no
bills or resolutions shall be referred to the committee.
Sec. 4. The committee may submit from time to time to the House
such reports as the committee considers advisable and, prior to the
close of the present Congress, shall submit to the House a final
report of the committee on the results of its studies and
investigations, together with such recommendations as the committee
considers advisable. Any report submitted when the House is not in
session may be filed with the Clerk of the House.
Sec. 5. For the purpose of this resolution, the committee, or
any subcommittee thereof, is authorized, subject to clause 31 of
Rule XI of the Rules of the House of Representatives, to sit and
act during the present Congress at such times and places within the
United States, whether or not the House is meeting, has recessed,
or has adjourned, to hold such hearings, to require the attendance
of such witnesses and the production of such books, papers, and
documents, and to take such testimony, as the committee considers
necessary. Subpenas may be issued over the signature of the
chairman of the committee, or by any member designated by such
chairman, and may be served by any person designated by any such
chairman or member. The chairman of the committee or any member
thereof may administer oaths to witnesses.
Sec. 6. The majority of the members of the committee shall
constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, except that
two or more shall constitute a quorum for the purpose of taking
evidence including sworn testimony.
Sec. 7. Funds authorized are for expenses incurred in
connection with the committee's activities within the United
States; and, notwithstanding section 502(b) of the Mutual Security
Act of 1954 (22 U.S.C. 1754), or any other provision of law, local
currencies owned by the United States in foreign countries shall
not be made available to the committee for expenses of its members
or employees, or other Members or employees, traveling abroad.''
House Resolution 19 was discussed briefly, Mr. Bolling pointing out
that:
. . . The resolution before us now creates the usual Select
Committee on Small Business. This time it is described as a
permanent select committee, recognizing the fact that each 2 years
a new Congress establishes these select committees. So we are going
to accept it as a permanent select committee. But its authority is
not changed. The only change that takes place in its constitution
is its size, and at the request of the leadership on both sides it
has been increased from 15 to 19 in this Congress.
After brief debate, the resolution was agreed to, as amended, by
voice vote.(1)
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1. Id. at p. 4595.
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Parliamentarian's Note: On Jan. 22, 1971,(2) the House
had adopted rules (effective as of that date) for the 92d Congress, one
of which established a permanent Select Committee on Small Business
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2. 117 Cong. Rec. 144, 92d Cong. 1st Sess.
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[[Page 2602]]
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(Rule X clause 3).(3) House Resolution 19 was required to
establish the select committee retroactively (i.e., as of Jan. 3, 1971)
for staff salary purposes and to confer subpena power and authority to
travel outside the United States.(4)
3. The rules were effected by the passage of H. Res. 5, the pertinent
text of which may be found at 117 Cong. Rec. 14, 92d Cong. 1st
Sess., Jan. 21, 1971, although, as heretofore indicated, the
resolution, itself, was not agreed to until the following day.
A standing Committee on Small Business was created
effective Jan. 3, 1975 (H. Res. 988, 93d Cong. 2d Sess.),
transferring legislative jurisdiction over problems of small
business from the Committee on Banking and Currency and from
the Committee on the Judiciary.
4. While the adoption of H. Res. 5 resulted in the incorporation into
the rules of the Select Committee on Small Business as a
permanent select committee, the resolution did not grant
investigatory authority, per se, to that committee. As was the
case with the overwhelming majority of standing committees, a
separate investigatory authorization was required to enable the
select committee to actually undertake an investigation or to
utilize subpena power. See Sec. 3, supra.
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Welfare and Education of Congressional Pages
Sec. 6.7 The House adopted a resolution creating a select committee to
investigate and report on the welfare and education of
congressional pages.
On Sept. 30, 1964,(5) by direction of the Committee on
Rules, Mr. Carl A. Elliott, of Alabama, called up and asked for
immediate consideration of the following resolution (H. Res. 847):
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5. 110 Cong. Rec. 23187, 88th Cong. 2d Sess.
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Resolved, That there is hereby created a select committee to be
composed of five Members of the House of Representatives to be
appointed by the Speaker, one of whom he shall designate as
chairman. Any vacancy occurring in the membership of the committee
shall be filled in the same manner in which the original
appointment was made.
The Committee is authorized and directed to conduct a full and
complete investigation and study of all of the factors relating to
the general welfare and education of congressional pages,
including, but not limited to, a study and investigation of the
residential, dining, recreational, educational, and physical
training facilities and opportunities for such pages, and rates of
pay, hours of work, and other conditions governing the employment
of such pages.
For the purpose of carrying out this resolution the Committee,
or any subcommittee thereof authorized by the Committee to hold
hearings, is authorized to sit and act during the present Congress
at such times and places
[[Page 2603]]
within the District of Columbia, whether the House is in session,
has recessed, or adjourned, and to hold such hearings as it deems
necessary; except that neither the Committee nor any subcommittee
thereof may sit while the House is meeting unless special leave to
sit shall have been obtained from the House.
The Committee shall report to the House as soon as practicable
during the present Congress the results of its investigation and
study, together with recommendations regarding the feasibility and
desirability of raising the minimum age for Capitol pages to
eighteen years, of requiring secondary school graduation as a
prerequisite for appointment as a Capitol page, and of providing
for the establishment and construction of a Capitol page school and
residence, and such other recommendations as it deems advisable.
Any such report which is made when the House is not in session
shall be filed with the Clerk of the House.
Shortly thereafter,(6) the resolution was agreed to.
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6. Id. at p. 23188.
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The Select Committee on the Welfare and Education of Congressional
Pages filed a report (H. Rept. No. 1945) on Oct. 3, 1964 (H. Jour. 898,
88th Cong. 2d Sess.). Continuing concern for the welfare and education
of congressional pages became a factor during consideration of the
Legislative Reorganization Act of 1970. The report of the Joint
Committee on the Organization of Congress on the measure which
eventually became that act included a recommendation that the limits on
the age of pages be raised. The report of the Committee on Rules on
H.R. 17654 (H. Rept. No. 91-1215, 91st Cong. 2d Sess.) proposed that a
person not serve as a page until he has completed the 12th grade of
school. The House ultimately accepted limits on the age of pages of 16
to 18 years; but the Senate voted to retain age limits for Senate pages
of 14 to 17 years.
In response to a perceived need for better supervision, housing,
and educational facilities for the pages, the Congress also included in
the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1970, a provision authorizing
construction of a building to contain dormitory and classroom
facilities for the pages, to be designated the John W. McCormack
Residential Page School. The Supplemental Appropriations Act of 1971
(Pub. L. No. 91-655) appropriated funds to enable the Architect of the
Capitol to make preliminary plans for the structure. Then on July 12,
1973 (119 Cong. Rec. 23473, 93d Cong. 1st Sess.) the Senate passed S.
2067, the primary purpose of which was to provide for replacement of
the existing page corps with an older group of pages who would not
require the supervision felt to be
[[Page 2604]]
necessary for younger pages, and also to eliminate the need for
construction of the residential page classroom and dormitory building,
and therefore to repeal authorization for such building. In the House,
the bill was referred to the Committee on Rules on July 16, 1973; no
further action was taken.