Rules Governing House Committee and Subcommittee Assignment Procedures

Changes from May 5, 2021 to August 26, 2022

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Rules Governing House Committee and
~~May 5, 2021~~August 26, 2022
Subcommittee Assignment Procedures
Michael Greene
Members of the House are assigned to serve on committees at the start of every Congress. Most Members of the House are assigned to serve on committees at the start of every Congress. Most
Analyst on Congress and Analyst on Congress and
assignments involve a three-step process involving the party caucuses and action on the House assignments involve a three-step process involving the party caucuses and action on the House
the Legislative Process the Legislative Process
floor. First, a Member is nominated to committee assignments by their party’s steering floor. First, a Member is nominated to committee assignments by their party’s steering

committee. Next, the full party caucus or conference votes to approve the steering committee’s committee. Next, the full party caucus or conference votes to approve the steering committee’s
nominations. Finally, a simple resolution is introduced and agreed to on nominations. Finally, a simple resolution is introduced and agreed to on ~~th e~~the House floor that House floor that

formally elects Members to their party-approved committee assignments. These resolutions, by formally elects Members to their party-approved committee assignments. These resolutions, by
~~longstanding~~long-standing practice, have been agreed to without objection as the party’s mutually recognize each other’s right to determine practice, have been agreed to without objection as the party’s mutually recognize each other’s right to determine
committee assignments for their own Members. committee assignments for their own Members.
Service on standing and non-standing committees in the House is shaped by both the Rules of the House and rules adopted by Service on standing and non-standing committees in the House is shaped by both the Rules of the House and rules adopted by
the political partiesthe political parties . “Standing committees” are permanently established under House Rule X, as opposed . “Standing committees” are permanently established under House Rule X, as opposed ~~t o~~to “non-standing” “non-standing”
committees (e.g., select or joint committees) which are created by resolution or law, and are often temporary in nature. The committees (e.g., select or joint committees) which are created by resolution or law, and are often temporary in nature. The
Rules of the House limit Members’ service to no more than two standing committees and not more than four Rules of the House limit Members’ service to no more than two standing committees and not more than four ~~subcommit tees~~subcommittees
thereon. However, House thereon. However, House ~~Rules~~rules also allow for these restrictions to be waived upon recommendation by either party caucus. also allow for these restrictions to be waived upon recommendation by either party caucus.
Both the Republican Conference and the Democratic Caucus have further rules limiting the type and number of committees Both the Republican Conference and the Democratic Caucus have further rules limiting the type and number of committees
Members may serve on. In general, Members of both parties are limited to one committee assignment when serving on an Members may serve on. In general, Members of both parties are limited to one committee assignment when serving on an
“exclusive” committee. Otherwise, Members generally may receive two “non-exclusive” committee assignments. Exceptions “exclusive” committee. Otherwise, Members generally may receive two “non-exclusive” committee assignments. Exceptions
to these limitations can be granted by the party caucuses as deemed warranted. In addition, under both parties’ rules, to these limitations can be granted by the party caucuses as deemed warranted. In addition, under both parties’ rules,
Members are generally limited to chairing one committee or subcommittee, with some exceptions. The Republican Members are generally limited to chairing one committee or subcommittee, with some exceptions. The Republican
Conference also limits chairs (and ranking members) to serving for not more than three consecutive terms. Conference also limits chairs (and ranking members) to serving for not more than three consecutive terms.
Both the Democratic Caucus and Republican Conference task steering committees with recommending most committee Both the Democratic Caucus and Republican Conference task steering committees with recommending most committee
assignments for their respective memberships. The particulars of this nominating process assignments for their respective memberships. The particulars of this nominating process ~~varies~~vary between the two parties, with between the two parties, with
each party specifying different factors in the consideration of making assignments. Still other assignments are recommended each party specifying different factors in the consideration of making assignments. Still other assignments are recommended
directly by the party leader (whether the Speaker when in the majority, or minority leader when in the minority)—including directly by the party leader (whether the Speaker when in the majority, or minority leader when in the minority)—including
to all non-standing committees. In any case, recommendations for assignment to standing committees must also be approved to all non-standing committees. In any case, recommendations for assignment to standing committees must also be approved
by a majority of the full party caucus before final action can be taken on the House floor. by a majority of the full party caucus before final action can be taken on the House floor.
Just as the House elects its Members to committee assignments, so too do committees elect their members to serve on Just as the House elects its Members to committee assignments, so too do committees elect their members to serve on
subcommittees. In general, the Republican Conference vests greater authority in committee chairs in determining subcommittees. In general, the Republican Conference vests greater authority in committee chairs in determining
subcommittee assignments. The Democratic Caucus has more formal procedures that all of its committees must follow in subcommittee assignments. The Democratic Caucus has more formal procedures that all of its committees must follow in
making subcommittee assignments. Unlike committee assignments, subcommittee assignments are making subcommittee assignments. Unlike committee assignments, subcommittee assignments are ~~n ot~~not approved on the approved on the
House floor. House floor.
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Introduction
At the outset of every two-year Congress, the House of Representatives assigns Members to serve At the outset of every two-year Congress, the House of Representatives assigns Members to serve
on the chamber’s various committees.1 Service on House committees can provide Members with on the chamber’s various committees.1 Service on House committees can provide Members with
opportunities to develop expertise in specific policy areas, contribute to marking up legislation opportunities to develop expertise in specific policy areas, contribute to marking up legislation
that that ~~wil~~ will be considered on the House floor, and participate in oversight hearings on topics of be considered on the House floor, and participate in oversight hearings on topics of
interest to the American public. The House is responsible for electing Members to committees interest to the American public. The House is responsible for electing Members to committees
and does so through the adoption of simple resolutions (H.Res.). However, this step represents the and does so through the adoption of simple resolutions (H.Res.). However, this step represents the
culmination of processes internal to each party caucus that began at the end of the previous culmination of processes internal to each party caucus that began at the end of the previous
Congress. Both the Congress. Both the ~~House~~ Democratic Caucus and Republican Conference appoint Members to Democratic Caucus and Republican Conference appoint Members to
steering committees, composed of party leaders and elected Members, which are responsible for steering committees, composed of party leaders and elected Members, which are responsible for
nominating party colleagues for assignment to committees. The steering committee’s nominations nominating party colleagues for assignment to committees. The steering committee’s nominations
are then voted on by the full membership of the relevant party caucus before being submitted to are then voted on by the full membership of the relevant party caucus before being submitted to
the House for approval by resolution. Tables listing the composition of each party’s steering the House for approval by resolution. Tables listing the composition of each party’s steering
committee in the 117th Congress (2021-2022) can be found committee in the 117th Congress (2021-2022) can be found inin Appendix A.
This report provides an examination of the committee assignment process for both standing and This report provides an examination of the committee assignment process for both standing and
non-standing committees and their subcommittees. The term “standing committees” refers to non-standing committees and their subcommittees. The term “standing committees” refers to
committees permanently established under House Rule X that have legislativecommittees permanently established under House Rule X that have legislative and oversight and oversight
jurisdiction over a number of stated subject areas. Non-standing committees (e.g., select or joint jurisdiction over a number of stated subject areas. Non-standing committees (e.g., select or joint
committees) are created by resolution or law, committees) are created by resolution or law, ~~typical y~~typically to investigate certain issues or events and to investigate certain issues or events and
may or may not have legislative jurisdiction.2 may or may not have legislative jurisdiction.2
The structure of this report is intended to The structure of this report is intended to ~~al ow~~allow readers to jump directly to information about readers to jump directly to information about
different types of committee assignments and the party procedures that are of immediate interest different types of committee assignments and the party procedures that are of immediate interest
to them. The report begins with an examination of requirements and limitations under House to them. The report begins with an examination of requirements and limitations under House
rules related to committee assignment. It then discusses relevant rules adopted by the Democratic rules related to committee assignment. It then discusses relevant rules adopted by the Democratic
Caucus and Republican Conference and lays out party procedures for assigning Members to, and Caucus and Republican Conference and lays out party procedures for assigning Members to, and
leadership on, standing committees, subcommittees, and non-standing committees. For the 117th leadership on, standing committees, subcommittees, and non-standing committees. For the 117th
Congress, Democratic Caucus Congress, Democratic Caucus ~~Rules~~rules can be found at https://www.dems.gov/rules-of-the- can be found at https://www.dems.gov/rules-of-the-
democratic-caucus, and Republican Conference democratic-caucus, and Republican Conference ~~Rules~~rules can be found at can be found at
https://www.gop.gov/conference-rules-of-the-117th-congress/.https://www.gop.gov/conference-rules-of-the-117th-congress/.
The Role of Adopted Rules versus Unwritten Practice
This report primarily limits its discussion to House rules, Republican Conference rules, and This report primarily limits its discussion to House rules, Republican Conference rules, and
Democratic Caucus rules. While these rules provide some formal parameters that the parties may Democratic Caucus rules. While these rules provide some formal parameters that the parties may
use in making committee assignments, both parties also have long-standing practices that further use in making committee assignments, both parties also have long-standing practices that further
shape the process. Given that party decisions related to committee assignments occur outside of shape the process. Given that party decisions related to committee assignments occur outside of
public view, this report cannot authoritatively or comprehensively account for these practices or public view, this report cannot authoritatively or comprehensively account for these practices or
how they may vary from procedures defined under the rules. In any case, the formal House and how they may vary from procedures defined under the rules. In any case, the formal House and

1 While most committee assignments occur at the beginning of a Congress, the House1 While most committee assignments occur at the beginning of a Congress, the House continues to periodically adopt continues to periodically adopt
assignment resolutions throughout the session. assignment resolutions throughout the session. ~~T hroughout~~Throughout a Congress, new assignments might need to be made for a a Congress, new assignments might need to be made for a
number of reasons; for example, duenumber of reasons; for example, due to special elections, a Member switching parties, or Members to special elections, a Member switching parties, or Members ~~changing~~
~~committees due to a retirement~~retiring. In the 116th Congress (2019-2020), the House agreed to over 30 such appointing . In the 116th Congress (2019-2020), the House agreed to over 30 such appointing
resolutions, includingresolutions, including ~~during~~ during the 2nd session. the 2nd session.
2 More discussion 2 More discussion on the types of on the types of ~~committ ees~~committees in the House (and Senate) can be in the House (and Senate) can be found in CRSfound in CRS Report 98-241, Report 98-241,
~~Com m ittee~~Committee Types and Roles, by Valerie, by Valerie Heitshusen. Heitshusen.

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Rules Governing House Committee and Subcommittee Assignment Procedures

party rules remain paramount as they serve to inform Members of their rights in the process, and party rules remain paramount as they serve to inform Members of their rights in the process, and
they might be relied upon in complicated or contentious situations. they might be relied upon in complicated or contentious situations.
House Rules and Practices Relating to Standing
Committee ~~Assignments~~Assignments3
Under its rules, the House is required to elect the standing committees within seven calendar days Under its rules, the House is required to elect the standing committees within seven calendar days
after the start of a new Congress.after the start of a new Congress.34 While the preliminary assignment of Members to committees While the preliminary assignment of Members to committees
~~typical y~~typically occurs within that time period, additional assignments are routinely made in the weeks occurs within that time period, additional assignments are routinely made in the weeks
that follow. Elections to committees that follow. Elections to committees ~~formal y~~formally occur through the adoption of simple resolutions, occur through the adoption of simple resolutions,
offered by Members on behalf of their respective party caucuses, assigning Members from the offered by Members on behalf of their respective party caucuses, assigning Members from the
majority or minority parties.majority or minority parties.45 While While ~~technical y~~technically debatable and amendable, by long-standing debatable and amendable, by long-standing
practice, these resolutions have been agreed to by unanimous consent in tacit recognition by the practice, these resolutions have been agreed to by unanimous consent in tacit recognition by the
parties of each other’s right to determine committee assignments for their own Members.parties of each other’s right to determine committee assignments for their own Members.56
House Rule X, clause 5(b)(2)(A), limits Members to service on two standing committees and not House Rule X, clause 5(b)(2)(A), limits Members to service on two standing committees and not
more than four subcommittees, thereon, at the same time. However, the rule further provides that more than four subcommittees, thereon, at the same time. However, the rule further provides that
these limitationsthese limitations can be waived by recommendation of either the Democratic Caucus or can be waived by recommendation of either the Democratic Caucus or
Republican Conference for their respective membership.Republican Conference for their respective membership.67 In other words, Members may serve on In other words, Members may serve on
more than two committees or four subcommittees if so approved by their party. Such occasional more than two committees or four subcommittees if so approved by their party. Such occasional
exceptions are commonly referred to as “waivers.” exceptions are commonly referred to as “waivers.”
In addition to limits on committee and subcommittee service In addition to limits on committee and subcommittee service ~~general y~~generally, House rules also dictate , House rules also dictate
the composition of membership on the Committees on the Budget and on Ethics. Membership on the composition of membership on the Committees on the Budget and on Ethics. Membership on
the Committee on the Budget is comprised ofthe Committee on the Budget is comprised of:
 Five Members from the Committee on Appropriations;  Five Members from the Committee on Appropriations;
 Five Members from the Committee on Ways and Means;  Five Members from the Committee on Ways and Means;
 One Member from the Committee on Rules;  One Member from the Committee on Rules;
 One Member designated by majority party leadership; and  One Member designated by majority party leadership; and
 One Member designated by minority party leadership. One Member designated by minority party leadership.7
~~The Committee on Ethics consists of ten Members, with membership equal y divided~~
~~between the parties. House Rule X, clause 5(a)(3)(B) further limits Members from~~

~~3 House Rule X, clause 5(a)(1).~~
~~4 Such resolutions are privileged for consideration under House Rule X, clause 5(a)(1), if offered at the direction of the~~
~~Republican Conference or Democratic Caucus—meaning that they have priority over the routine daily order of~~
~~business. For further reading on the concept of privilege in the House, see CRS Report 98-315,~~ ~~Privileged Business on~~
~~the House Floor, by James V. Saturno.~~
~~5 T he content of these resolutions list names of individuals~~ 8 3 For purposes of this report, any reference to “Members” includes the Resident Commissioner from Puerto Rico and Delegates representing the District of Columbia and the U.S. territories. The Resident Commissioner and Delegates are elected to committees in the same manner as Representatives and may also chair committees and subcommittees. 4 House Rule X, clause 5(a)(1). 5 Such resolutions are privileged for consideration under House Rule X, clause 5(a)(1), if offered at the direction of the Republican Conference or Democratic Caucus—meaning that they have priority over the routine daily order of business. For further reading on the concept of privilege in the House, see CRS Report 98-315, Privileged Business on the House Floor, by James V. Saturno. 6 The content of these resolutions list names of individuals appointed on behalf of the majority and minority parties to appointed on behalf of the majority and minority parties to
specified committees and their relative order of seniority on the committee. specified committees and their relative order of seniority on the committee. ~~T he following examples from the 117 th~~
~~Congress include~~ Examples from the 117th Congress include the appointment of committee chairs (H.Res. 9), Members from the majority party (H.Res. 62), and the appointment of committee chairs (H.Res. 9), Members from the majority party (H.Res. 62), and
Members from the minority party (H.Res. 63). Members from the minority party (H.Res. 63).
~~6 T his~~ 7 This limitation also does not apply in certain specific circumstances, including limitation also does not apply in certain specific circumstances, including ex officio service by chairs and ex officio service by chairs and
ranking minority members on their standing committee’s subcommittees, and Member service on an Ethics Committee ranking minority members on their standing committee’s subcommittees, and Member service on an Ethics Committee
investigative subcommittee. investigative subcommittee.
78 House Rule House Rule X, clauseX, clause 5(a)(2). While the rule sets the composition described above, it is5(a)(2). While the rule sets the composition described above, it is not limited to only those not limited to only those
Members. Members. ~~T he~~The rule also provides for additional membership of those “who are members of other standing committees.” rule also provides for additional membership of those “who are members of other standing committees.”
DuringDuring the 117th Congress (2021-2022), the Committee on the Budget had 36 Members. the 117th Congress (2021-2022), the Committee on the Budget had 36 Members.
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The Committee on Ethics consists of ten Members, with membership equally divided between the parties. House Rule X, clause 5(a)(3) further limits Members from serving on the committee for not more than three Congresses within a period of five serving on the committee for not more than three Congresses within a period of five
consecutive Congresses.consecutive Congresses.89
~~Size~~Sizes and Ratios of Committees
Other than the considerations discussed above, House rules are silent on the Other than the considerations discussed above, House rules are silent on the ~~size~~sizes of standing of standing
committees and do not prescribe a particular ratio of majority to minority Members.committees and do not prescribe a particular ratio of majority to minority Members.910 As a result, As a result,
leadership from both parties negotiate these parameters following the outcome of an election and leadership from both parties negotiate these parameters following the outcome of an election and
prior to the start of the next Congress.prior to the start of the next Congress.1011 The The ~~size~~sizes of committees may be adjusted to account for of committees may be adjusted to account for
Member interest and, more importantly, provide for party ratios that, in the aggregate, reflect the Member interest and, more importantly, provide for party ratios that, in the aggregate, reflect the
~~ratio of the parties in the House at large.11~~overall party composition of the chamber.12 In turn, these decisions about In turn, these decisions about sizes and ratios provide the party ratios provide the party
caucuses with the information they need to make assignments for their respective memberships.caucuses with the information they need to make assignments for their respective memberships.12
13 Discussion of the parties’ processes for assigning Members Discussion of the parties’ processes for assigning Members to committees follows in the sections below. follows in the sections below.
Party Rules and Practices Relating to Standing
Committee Assignments
In addition to the limits placed on committee assignments by House rules, both the Democratic In addition to the limits placed on committee assignments by House rules, both the Democratic
Caucus and Republican Conference also observe further restrictions on committee service. Both Caucus and Republican Conference also observe further restrictions on committee service. Both
Democrats and Republicans categorize committees as “exclusive” or “non-exclusive” in their Democrats and Republicans categorize committees as “exclusive” or “non-exclusive” in their
respective party rules or practices. As the name might suggest, Members assigned to an exclusive respective party rules or practices. As the name might suggest, Members assigned to an exclusive
committee committee ~~general y~~generally receive no other committee assignments (though waivers are sometimes receive no other committee assignments (though waivers are sometimes
given by the parties on a case-by-case basis). Committees are designated as exclusive in given by the parties on a case-by-case basis). Committees are designated as exclusive in
recognition of their broad legislative jurisdictions and substantial workloads. Assignments to recognition of their broad legislative jurisdictions and substantial workloads. Assignments to
exclusive committees are often sought by Members because they can provide the opportunity to exclusive committees are often sought by Members because they can provide the opportunity to
more frequently work on major legislative and oversight initiativesmore frequently work on major legislative and oversight initiatives over the course of a Congress. over the course of a Congress.
Both the Republican and Democratic parties distinguish the same committees as exclusive or Both the Republican and Democratic parties distinguish the same committees as exclusive or
non-exclusive, as listed inon-exclusive, as listed in Table 1, below. However, while the Democratic Caucus below. However, while the Democratic Caucus ~~formal y~~formally
establishes exclusive committees in their party rules, the Republican Conference does not—establishes exclusive committees in their party rules, the Republican Conference does not—
instead, treating committee exclusivity as a instead, treating committee exclusivity as a ~~longstanding~~long-standing informal practice. informal practice.
Table 1. Party Designation of Exclusive and Non-exclusive Committees
Exclusive Committees
Appropriations Appropriations
Energy and Commerc Energy and Commercea
Ways and Means Ways and Means
~~Rules~~
~~Financial Servicesb~~

~~Non-Exclusive Committees~~

~~8 T he rule specifies~~ 9 The rule specifies that service on the committee for a portion of a Congress does not count towards the three Congress that service on the committee for a portion of a Congress does not count towards the three Congress
limit, and Members may serve for a fourth or fifth Congress as chair or ranking member. limit, and Members may serve for a fourth or fifth Congress as chair or ranking member.
9 10 House rules House rules ~~designated~~ designated the size of standing committees until the adoption of the Committee Reform Amendments of the size of standing committees until the adoption of the Committee Reform Amendments of
1974, which went into effect at the start of the 1974, which went into effect at the start of the ~~94 th~~94th Congress (1975-1976). Congress (1975-1976).
1011 2 U.S.C. 2 U.S.C. §29a. §29a.
1112 In particular, Democratic Caucus In particular, Democratic Caucus ~~Rules~~ Rules 16(A) and (B) direct that the party should attempt to negotiate committee 16(A) and (B) direct that the party should attempt to negotiate committee
ratios that are “at least as representative” as the ratio of Democrats to Republicans in the House. Republican ratios that are “at least as representative” as the ratio of Democrats to Republicans in the House. Republican
Conference Conference ~~Rules~~ rules do not contain any equivalent requirement. do not contain any equivalent requirement.
12 13 More information on historical committee ratios can be found in CRS More information on historical committee ratios can be found in CRS Report R40478, Report R40478, House Committee Party
Ratios: 98th-117th Congresses, by Sarah J. Eckman. , by Sarah J. Eckman.
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~~Agriculture~~
Rules Financial Servicesb Non-Exclusive Committees Agriculture Foreign Affairs Oversight and Reform Armed Services Homeland Security Homeland Security
Science, Space, and Technology Science, Space, and Technology
~~Armed Services~~Budget
House Administration House Administration
~~Smal~~ Small Business Business
~~Budget~~Education and Labor
Judiciary Judiciary
Transportation and Infrastructure Transportation and Infrastructure
~~Education and Labor~~Ethics
Natural Resources Natural Resources
Veterans’ Affairs Veterans’ Affairs
~~Foreign Affairs~~
~~Oversight and Reform~~

Source: Based on DemocraticBased on Democratic Caucus Rule 17 and Republican Conference practices. Caucus Rule 17 and Republican Conference practices.
a. The Committeea. The Committee on Energy and Commerceon Energy and Commerce is exclusiveis exclusive for Membersfor Members of the Democraticof the Democratic Party serving on the Party serving on the
committee committee for the first time during the 104th Congress (1995-1996) or later.for the first time during the 104th Congress (1995-1996) or later. It is not treated as an exclusive It is not treated as an exclusive
assignment for Democraticassignment for Democratic Members with serviceMembers with service on the committeeon the committee prior to the 104th Congress. prior to the 104th Congress.
b. The Committee b. The Committee on Financial Serviceson Financial Services is exclusive foris exclusive for ~~Members~~ Members of the Democraticof the Democratic Party serving on the Party serving on the
committee committee for the first time during the 109th Congress (2005-2006) or later.for the first time during the 109th Congress (2005-2006) or later. It is not treated as an exclusive It is not treated as an exclusive
assignment for Democraticassignment for Democratic Members with serviceMembers with service on the committeeon the committee prior to the 109th Congress. prior to the 109th Congress.
Democratic Caucus Rules
Committee assignments within the Committee assignments within the ~~House~~ Democratic Caucus Democratic Caucus ~~general y~~generally follow a two-step follow a two-step
process. First, Members are nominated to service on a committee by either the Steering and process. First, Members are nominated to service on a committee by either the Steering and
Policy Committee or by the party’s leader (the Speaker of the House when Democrats are in the Policy Committee or by the party’s leader (the Speaker of the House when Democrats are in the
majority or the Democratic leader when the party is in the minority). Nominations are then majority or the Democratic leader when the party is in the minority). Nominations are then
subject to approval by majority vote of the full Democratic Caucus before being subject to approval by majority vote of the full Democratic Caucus before being ~~formal y~~
formally submitted to the House for approval by resolution. submitted to the House for approval by resolution.
The Steering and Policy Committee is responsible for nominating The Steering and Policy Committee is responsible for nominating ~~membership for al~~ the membership of all standing standing
committees, except for the Committee on Rules and the Committee on House Administration, committees, except for the Committee on Rules and the Committee on House Administration,
whose membership is directly nominated by the party leader. Members may also nominate whose membership is directly nominated by the party leader. Members may also nominate
themselves for themselves for an assignment to assignment to ~~these~~a standing standing ~~committees~~committee by submitting written notice, co- by submitting written notice, co-
signed by at least 50 percent of their state’s Democratic delegation, to the Steering and Policy signed by at least 50 percent of their state’s Democratic delegation, to the Steering and Policy
Committee for consideration, although this is rare. Committee for consideration, although this is rare.
Pursuant to House Democratic Caucus rules, the Steering and Policy Committee accounts for Pursuant to House Democratic Caucus rules, the Steering and Policy Committee accounts for
multiple factors when considering committee assignments. Nominations by the committee are not multiple factors when considering committee assignments. Nominations by the committee are not
required to follow seniority and should not “discriminate” based on Members’ prior work required to follow seniority and should not “discriminate” based on Members’ prior work
experience.experience.1314 Instead, Caucus Rule 19(B)(2) directs Steering and Policy to consider Instead, Caucus Rule 19(B)(2) directs Steering and Policy to consider—:
“merit, length “merit, length ~~of service on the committee, degree of commitment to the Democratic~~
~~agenda, and the diversity of the Caucus, including appropriate representation of the~~
of service on the committee, degree of commitment to the Democratic agenda, and the diversity of the Caucus, including appropriate representation of the Caucus’ ideological and regional diversity, in making nominations for committee Caucus’ ideological and regional diversity, in making nominations for committee
assignments.” assignments.”
Nominations to the Committees on Appropriations, Ways and Means, and Budget, are governed Nominations to the Committees on Appropriations, Ways and Means, and Budget, are governed
by slightly different procedures. Pursuant to Caucus Rule 19(D), Members on Appropriations and by slightly different procedures. Pursuant to Caucus Rule 19(D), Members on Appropriations and
Ways and Means are Ways and Means are ~~automatical y~~automatically re-nominated to those committees by the Steering and Policy re-nominated to those committees by the Steering and Policy
Committee each Congress. Vacancies in either committee are Committee each Congress. Vacancies in either committee are ~~nominated~~filled based on nominations by the Steering and by the Steering and
Policy Committee in the same fashion as in any other standing committee. Policy Committee in the same fashion as in any other standing committee.
Nominations to the Budget Committee are governed by House Rule X, clause 5(a)(2), which, as Nominations to the Budget Committee are governed by House Rule X, clause 5(a)(2), which, as
noted, requires Members be drawn from the Committees on Appropriations, Ways and Means, noted, requires Members be drawn from the Committees on Appropriations, Ways and Means,
14 Democratic Caucus Rule 19(B)(4). Congressional Research Service 4 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 Rules Governing House Committee and Subcommittee Assignment Procedures and Rules. The Steering and Policy Committee nominates Members to and Rules. The Steering and Policy Committee nominates Members to al all seats on the Budget seats on the Budget
Committee, except one Member appointed by the party leader, and the chair (or ranking minority Committee, except one Member appointed by the party leader, and the chair (or ranking minority
member), who is directly appointed by the full Democratic Caucus. Any Member may also member), who is directly appointed by the full Democratic Caucus. Any Member may also

~~13 Democratic Caucus Rule 19(B)(4).~~
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nominate themselves to a seat on Appropriations, Ways and Means, or Budget, by submitting a nominate themselves to a seat on Appropriations, Ways and Means, or Budget, by submitting a
written notice co-signed by five additional Democratic Members to the Democratic Caucus Chair written notice co-signed by five additional Democratic Members to the Democratic Caucus Chair
and Vice Chair by close of business on the day prior to committee elections. and Vice Chair by close of business on the day prior to committee elections.
Once nominations have been submitted to the Democratic Caucus, assignments are approved one Once nominations have been submitted to the Democratic Caucus, assignments are approved one
committee at a time by a majority of those present and voting. A secret committee at a time by a majority of those present and voting. A secret ~~bal ot~~ballot vote may be held on vote may be held on
the assignment of any individualthe assignment of any individual Member if demanded by 10 or more Members of the Caucus. In Member if demanded by 10 or more Members of the Caucus. In
such cases, Caucus rules provide for 30 minutes of debate, such cases, Caucus rules provide for 30 minutes of debate, ~~equal y~~equally divided between proponents divided between proponents
and opponents of the candidate. Following debate, if any nominee is rejected, the full list of and opponents of the candidate. Following debate, if any nominee is rejected, the full list of
committee nominees is returned to the Steering and Policy Committee to committee nominees is returned to the Steering and Policy Committee to ~~al ow~~allow for new for new
nominations to replace rejected Members (or, in the case of the Committees on Rules and House nominations to replace rejected Members (or, in the case of the Committees on Rules and House
Administration, new nominations are submitted by the party leader). Administration, new nominations are submitted by the party leader).
Table 2. Committee Nominations within the Democratic Caucus
Steering and Policy
Party Leader
Committee
Committee Nominates
Nominates
Agriculture Agriculture
Chair & Members Chair & Members

Appropriations Appropriations
Chair & Member Chair & Membersa

Armed Armed Services Services
Chair & Members Chair & Members

Budget Budget
Al All but one but one ~~Membe~~rbMemberb,c
One Member One Member
Education and Labor Education and Labor
Chair & Members Chair & Members

Energy and Commerce Energy and Commerce
Chair & Members Chair & Members

Ethics Ethics
Chair & Members Chair & Members

Financial Services Financial Services
Chair & Members Chair & Members

Foreign Affairs Foreign Affairs
Chair & Members Chair & Members

Homeland Security Homeland Security
Chair & Members Chair & Members

House Administration House Administration

Chair & Members Chair & Members
Judiciary Judiciary
Chair & Members Chair & Members

Natural Resources Natural Resources
Chair & Members Chair & Members

Oversight and Reform Oversight and Reform
Chair & Members Chair & Members

Rules Rules

Chair & Members Chair & Members
Science, Space, and Technology Science, Space, and Technology
Chair & Members Chair & Members

~~Smal~~ Small Business Business
Chair & Members Chair & Members

Transportation and Infrastructure Transportation and Infrastructure
Chair & Members Chair & Members

Veterans’ Affairs Veterans’ Affairs
Chair & Members Chair & Members

Ways and Means Ways and Means
Chair & Member Chair & Membersa

Special, select, Special, select, & other committees & other committees

Chair & Members Chair & Members
Source: CRS analysis of House DemocraticCRS analysis of House Democratic Caucus Rules 19 and 21. Caucus Rules 19 and 21.
Congressional Research Service 5 Rules Governing House Committee and Subcommittee Assignment Procedures Notes: Any Democratic Member ~~Notes:~~ ~~Any Democratic Member~~ may petition for nomination to any committeemay petition for nomination to any committee assignment (except to Rules or assignment (except to Rules or
House Administration) upon written request co-signed by at least 50 percent of the Member’sHouse Administration) upon written request co-signed by at least 50 percent of the Member’s state Democratic state Democratic
delegation and submitted to the Steeringdelegation and submitted to the Steering and Policy Committee. and Policy Committee.
a. The Steering and Policy Committeea. The Steering and Policy Committee is required under Caucus is required under Caucus ~~Rules~~rules to nominate to nominate Members who servedMembers who served on on
the committee the committee in the previous Congress,in the previous Congress, but is otherwisebut is otherwise ~~responsible~~ responsible for making nominations to for making nominations to fil any vacancies. Members ~~any~~
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~~Rules Governing House Committee and Subcommittee Assignment Procedures~~

~~vacancies. Members~~ may also petition for a nomination to the committeemay also petition for a nomination to the committee by submitting a written notice co-by submitting a written notice co-
signed by five additional Democratsigned by five additional Democrat ~~Members~~ Members to the Democraticto the Democratic Caucus Chair and Vice Chair by close of Caucus Chair and Vice Chair by close of
business on the day priorbusiness on the day prior to committeeto committee elections.elections.
b. Democratic b. Democratic Caucus Caucus ~~Rules~~rules direct the Steering and Policy Committee direct the Steering and Policy Committee to make nominations to the Budget to make nominations to the Budget
Committee Committee in accordance with House Rule X, clause 5(a)(2), which requiresin accordance with House Rule X, clause 5(a)(2), which requires ~~Members~~ Members be drawn from the be drawn from the
CommitteesCommittees on Appropriations, Ways and Means, and Rules. on Appropriations, Ways and Means, and Rules.
c. The chair of the Budget Committee c. The chair of the Budget Committee is appointed directly by majorityis appointed directly by majority vote of the Democraticvote of the Democratic Caucus, Caucus,
pursuant to Democratic pursuant to Democratic Caucus Rule 20(A)(1)(a). Caucus Rule 20(A)(1)(a).
Limitations
Democratic Caucus rules establish certain limitations on Member service on committees in Democratic Caucus rules establish certain limitations on Member service on committees in
addition to those provided for in the Rules of the House. However, in practice, Members may addition to those provided for in the Rules of the House. However, in practice, Members may
receive waivers or be given temporary committee assignments that would otherwise not be receive waivers or be given temporary committee assignments that would otherwise not be
~~al owed~~allowed under these limitations. Absent any waiver or temporary assignment, the following under these limitations. Absent any waiver or temporary assignment, the following
restrictions on committee service apply to Democratic Members: restrictions on committee service apply to Democratic Members:
 Assignment to an exclusive committee precludes any further committee  Assignment to an exclusive committee precludes any further committee
assignments, other than to the Committees on Budget and House assignments, other than to the Committees on Budget and House
Administration. Administration.
 Members may not serve on more than two committees with legislative  Members may not serve on more than two committees with legislative
jurisdiction. This rule does not apply to the Committees on House jurisdiction. This rule does not apply to the Committees on House
Administration or Ethics. Administration or Ethics.
 Democratic Caucus rules reiterate House Rule X, clause 5(a)(3)(B), limiting  Democratic Caucus rules reiterate House Rule X, clause 5(a)(3)(B), limiting
service on the Ethics Committee to not more than three Congresses within a service on the Ethics Committee to not more than three Congresses within a
period of five successive Congresses. period of five successive Congresses.
 Members assigned to the Permanent Select Committee on  Members assigned to the Permanent Select Committee on ~~Intel igence~~Intelligence may only may only
be given one additional standing committee assignment. While serving on be given one additional standing committee assignment. While serving on
~~Intel igence~~the Intelligence Committee, Members may take a leave of absence from their other prior , Members may take a leave of absence from their other prior
assignments to preserve their committee seniority upon their return. assignments to preserve their committee seniority upon their return.
Temporary Assignments
The Steering and Policy Committee is empowered by Caucus rules to determine, on a The Steering and Policy Committee is empowered by Caucus rules to determine, on a
committee by committee basis, whether or not to committee by committee basis, whether or not to ~~fil~~ fill any remaining vacancies after any remaining vacancies after
Democratic Members have received their preliminary assignments. Any Members’ Democratic Members have received their preliminary assignments. Any Members’
assignments to these additional vacancies are designated as temporary and come with assignments to these additional vacancies are designated as temporary and come with
additional restrictions. Members on temporary assignment do not accrue seniority on the additional restrictions. Members on temporary assignment do not accrue seniority on the
committee while serving in that capacity and their appointment is considered expired at committee while serving in that capacity and their appointment is considered expired at
the end of a Congress, the end of a Congress, ~~that is,~~meaning they do not have the automatic right to return to the they do not have the automatic right to return to the
committee in the subsequent Congress. Temporarily assigned Members also committee in the subsequent Congress. Temporarily assigned Members also ~~general y~~generally
cannot bid on subcommittee assignments except if vacancies remain after cannot bid on subcommittee assignments except if vacancies remain after al all other other
committee members have declined the seat.committee members have declined the seat. Congressional Research Service 6 Rules Governing House Committee and Subcommittee Assignment Procedures
Waivers
When deemed necessary, the Democratic Caucus may grant a waiver to When deemed necessary, the Democratic Caucus may grant a waiver to ~~al ow~~allow a Member a Member
to serve on a committee in a way that would otherwise violate Caucus rulesto serve on a committee in a way that would otherwise violate Caucus rules~~. Waivers are~~
~~recommended by the Committee on Caucus Procedures—an entity appointed by the~~
~~Caucus Chair—and voted on by the full Caucus in a secret bal ot vote. Records of~~
~~waivers regarding committee assignments are maintained by the Steering and Policy~~
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~~Committee and, pursuant to Caucus Rule 10(B)(3), are available for review by al~~
~~Members of the Caucus.~~
~~Republican Conference Rules~~
~~Within the House~~ or House rules that limit the number of committees on which a Member may serve. The Steering and Policy Committee is implicitly empowered to recommend “committee waivers, grandfathering, and special permissions” for Members when making recommendations for committee assignments.15 Although the Steering and Policy Committee’s rules of procedure are not public, Caucus rules dictate that the committee shall record all such dispensations in a form accessible to Democratic Members. The application of waivers or other arrangements made with individual Members can vary considerably and are at the discretion of the Steering and Policy Committee, subject to the approval of the full Caucus. Republican Conference Rules Within the Republican Conference, the Steering Committee is responsible for nominating Republican Conference, the Steering Committee is responsible for nominating
party Members to most standing committee assignments.party Members to most standing committee assignments.1416 The party’s leader (the Speaker or the The party’s leader (the Speaker or the
Republican leaderRepublican leader, depending on whether or not the party is in the majority) makes nominations to depending on whether or not the party is in the majority) makes nominations to
the Committees on Rules, House Administration, and for one assignment to the Committee on the the Committees on Rules, House Administration, and for one assignment to the Committee on the
Budget. Budget. Al All nominations to nominations to ~~committee assignments~~committees are then subject to approval by majority vote are then subject to approval by majority vote
of the Republican Conference. By default, any contested election is conducted by secret of the Republican Conference. By default, any contested election is conducted by secret ~~bal ot~~
~~and~~ ballot and proxy votes are prohibited. However, any vote by the Republican Conference may be proxy votes are prohibited. However, any vote by the Republican Conference may be
conducted by secret conducted by secret ~~bal ot~~ballot if demanded by a Member and seconded by five additional if demanded by a Member and seconded by five additional Republican Republican
Representatives. If any nomination fails to secure majority support of the Conference, then the Representatives. If any nomination fails to secure majority support of the Conference, then the
nominating body is directed to submit a new recommendation for consideration. While nominating body is directed to submit a new recommendation for consideration. While
Republican Conference rules do not specify a method by which Members can directly nominate Republican Conference rules do not specify a method by which Members can directly nominate
themselves for a committee assignment, the rules do not prohibit that possibility either.themselves for a committee assignment, the rules do not prohibit that possibility either.1517
Vacancies in committees are Vacancies in committees are ~~fil ed~~filled by the entity or individual by the entity or individual responsible for making nominations responsible for making nominations
at the start of the Congress. Vacancies at the start of the Congress. Vacancies ~~fil ed~~filled by the Steering Committee are submitted directly to by the Steering Committee are submitted directly to
the House and do not require approval by the Republican Conference. The Republican leader the House and do not require approval by the Republican Conference. The Republican leader
nominates replacements for vacancies nominates replacements for vacancies aton the Committees on Rules, House Administration, and the Committees on Rules, House Administration, and
one seat on Budget, which must then be approved by a majority of the Republican Conference.one seat on Budget, which must then be approved by a majority of the Republican Conference.
Table 3. Committee Nominations within the Republican Conference
Steering and Policy
Party Leader
Committee Assignment
Committee Nominates
Nominates
Agriculture Agriculture
Chair & Members Chair & Members

Appropriations Appropriations
Chair & Members Chair & Members

Armed Armed ~~Services~~
~~Chair & Members~~

~~Budget~~
~~Chair & al but one Membera~~
~~One Member~~
~~Education and Labor~~
~~Chair & Members~~

~~Energy and Commerce~~
~~Chair & Members~~

~~Ethics~~
~~Chair & Members~~

~~Financial Services~~
~~Chair & Members~~

~~Foreign Affairs~~
~~Chair & Members~~

~~Homeland Security~~
~~Chair & Members~~

14 Services Chair & Members 15 Democratic Caucus Rule 10(B)(3). 16 While this report discusses While this report discusses assignment procedures according to the assignment procedures according to the ~~Republican Conference’s rules,~~ rules of the Republican Conference, readers can find readers can find
additional discussionadditional discussion of the biddingof the bidding process by process by Republican Members in~~Members in a publicly available copy of the Republican Member book~~
~~for the 112th Congress (2011-2012). See,~~ Hit the Ground Running ~~Mem ber~~Member Book, 112th Congress ed., pp. 38-39, at , 112th Congress ed., pp. 38-39, at
https://www.governmentattic.org/4docs/HitGroundRunning2011.pdfhttps://www.governmentattic.org/4docs/HitGroundRunning2011.pdf . .
1517 By contrast, nominations for committee chairs are only in order if made By contrast, nominations for committee chairs are only in order if made by recommendation of the Steering by recommendation of the Steering
Committee pursuant to Republican Conference RuleCommittee pursuant to Republican Conference Rule 14(a)(1). Because the rules14(a)(1). Because the rules specify what nominations are in order specify what nominations are in order
for chairs and are silent in regard to other committee assignments, it for chairs and are silent in regard to other committee assignments, it ~~appear s~~appears possible that Republican Members may be possible that Republican Members may be
ableable to nominate themselves for consideration by the full Conference, notwithstanding the recommendations of the to nominate themselves for consideration by the full Conference, notwithstanding the recommendations of the
Steering Committee. Steering Committee.
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Steering and Policy
Party Leader
Committee Assignment
Committee Nominates Nominates Budget Chair & al but one Membera One Member Education and Labor Chair & Members Energy and Commerce Chair & Members Ethics Chair & Members Financial Services Chair & Members Foreign Affairs Chair & Members Homeland Security Chair & Members ~~Nominates~~
~~Nominates~~
House Administration House Administration

Chair & Members Chair & Members
Judiciary Judiciary
Chair & Members Chair & Members

Natural Resources Natural Resources
Chair & Members Chair & Members

Oversight and Reform Oversight and Reform
Chair & Members Chair & Members

Rules Rules

Chair & Members Chair & Members
Science, Space, and Technology Science, Space, and Technology
Chair & Members Chair & Members

~~Smal~~ Small Business Business
Chair & Members Chair & Members

Transportation and Infrastructure Transportation and Infrastructure
Chair & Members Chair & Members

Veterans’ Affairs Veterans’ Affairs
Chair & Members Chair & Members

Ways and Means Ways and Means
Chair & Members Chair & Members

Special, select, Special, select, & other Committees & other Committees

Chair & Members Chair & Members
Source: CRS analysis of House Republican Conference Rule 12. CRS analysis of House Republican Conference Rule 12.
a. House Rule X, clause 5(a)(2), further requiresa. House Rule X, clause 5(a)(2), further requires that Membersthat Members on the Budget Committeeon the Budget Committee be appointed from be appointed from
Members Members on the Committeeson the Committees on Appropriations,on Appropriations, Ways and Means, and Rules.Ways and Means, and Rules.
Limitations
There are no explicit limitations codified in the Republican Conference’s rules regarding There are no explicit limitations codified in the Republican Conference’s rules regarding
Members’ service on committees, although limitations set by the rules of the House Members’ service on committees, although limitations set by the rules of the House ~~stil~~ still apply. apply.
However, as previously discussed, the Conference does observe a However, as previously discussed, the Conference does observe a ~~longstanding~~long-standing practice practice
designating certain committees as exclusive. designating certain committees as exclusive. ~~General y~~Generally, Republican Members appointed to an , Republican Members appointed to an
exclusive committee do not receive any other assignments to standing committees. However, exclusive committee do not receive any other assignments to standing committees. However,
Republican Conference Rule 12(b)(3) Republican Conference Rule 12(b)(3) ~~al ows~~allows Members assigned to the Committee on Rules to be Members assigned to the Committee on Rules to be
“on leave with seniority” from a standing committee on which they previously served. This status “on leave with seniority” from a standing committee on which they previously served. This status
~~al ows~~allows a Member to retain their seniority when they return to a Member to retain their seniority when they return to ~~Membership~~membership on said committee, on said committee,
after concluding their service on the Rules Committee. after concluding their service on the Rules Committee.
Committee Chair Appointments
Democratic Caucus Rules
The Democratic Steering and Policy Committee is responsible for nominating chairs (or ranking The Democratic Steering and Policy Committee is responsible for nominating chairs (or ranking
members when in the minority) to members when in the minority) to al all standing committees except for the Committees on Rules, standing committees except for the Committees on Rules,
House Administration, and the Budget. The Democratic leader nominates chairs to the House Administration, and the Budget. The Democratic leader nominates chairs to the
Congressional Research Service 8 Rules Governing House Committee and Subcommittee Assignment Procedures Committees on Rules and House Administration, while the Democratic Caucus directly elects the Committees on Rules and House Administration, while the Democratic Caucus directly elects the
chair of the Committee on the Budget. As when considering committee assignments, the Steering chair of the Committee on the Budget. As when considering committee assignments, the Steering
and Policy Committee is directed by caucus rules to factor in merit, committee service, and Policy Committee is directed by caucus rules to factor in merit, committee service,
commitment to the Democratic agenda, and commitment to the Democratic agenda, and ~~overal~~ overall diversity of the Caucus, diversity of the Caucus, ~~while not~~without having to having to
strictly adhere to seniority in making nominations.adhere to seniority in making nominations.
The election of committee chairs by the full Democratic Caucus is subject to different criteria The election of committee chairs by the full Democratic Caucus is subject to different criteria
depending on whether a nominee would be continuing as chair from a prior Congress or the depending on whether a nominee would be continuing as chair from a prior Congress or the
position is vacant. In cases where the candidate nominated by the Steering and Policy Committee position is vacant. In cases where the candidate nominated by the Steering and Policy Committee
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or Democratic leader served as chair in the previous Congress, other candidates must meet either or Democratic leader served as chair in the previous Congress, other candidates must meet either
of the following requirements in order to also be considered during the Caucus vote: of the following requirements in order to also be considered during the Caucus vote:
 During consideration of chair candidates by the Steering and Policy committee,  During consideration of chair candidates by the Steering and Policy committee,
at least 14 Members voted for someone other than the prevailing nominee; or at least 14 Members voted for someone other than the prevailing nominee; or
 50 or more Members submit a written request  50 or more Members submit a written request to the Steering and Policy committee that additional nominations be that additional nominations be
considered by the Democratic Caucus. considered by the Democratic Caucus.
If the Caucus is If the Caucus is ~~fil ing~~filling a vacant committee chair, these extra requirements do not need to be met a vacant committee chair, these extra requirements do not need to be met
by a Member in order to contest the Steering and Policy Committee’s nominee. Members may by a Member in order to contest the Steering and Policy Committee’s nominee. Members may
nominate themselves or any other Member of the Caucus to be chair as long as the candidate nominate themselves or any other Member of the Caucus to be chair as long as the candidate
serves on the committee in question.serves on the committee in question.1618 However, as described above, Democratic Caucus rules However, as described above, Democratic Caucus rules
make it more difficult to make it more difficult to ~~chal enge~~challenge a chair seeking to continue in that role from one Congress to a chair seeking to continue in that role from one Congress to
the next. the next.
Al All votes on committee chairs taken by the Steering and Policy Committee and the Democratic votes on committee chairs taken by the Steering and Policy Committee and the Democratic
~~Conference~~Caucus are conducted by secret are conducted by secret ~~bal ot~~ballot, unless a majority votes to adopt a motion to waive the , unless a majority votes to adopt a motion to waive the
requirement.requirement.1719 Debate Debate on this motion is limitedis limited to 60 minutes, to 60 minutes, ~~equal y~~equally divided between proponents and divided between proponents and
opponents for each nominee, but may be extended by majority vote of the Caucus.opponents for each nominee, but may be extended by majority vote of the Caucus.1820 If more than If more than
two candidates are under consideration for a chair position, the Member receiving the two candidates are under consideration for a chair position, the Member receiving the ~~least~~
~~amount of~~fewest votes is eliminated votes is eliminated after each round of voting until one nominee receives majority after each round of voting until one nominee receives majority
support.support.1921
Limitations
Committee chairs are further limited on any additional committee assignments. In general, Committee chairs are further limited on any additional committee assignments. In general,
Members are limited to serving as a chair for only one committee, though the Caucus may waive Members are limited to serving as a chair for only one committee, though the Caucus may waive
the rule in regards to non-standing committees.the rule in regards to non-standing committees.2022 Chairs are also Chairs are also ~~general y~~generally prohibited from prohibited from
serving as the chair of a subcommittee or as a member of the Committee on Ethics.serving as the chair of a subcommittee or as a member of the Committee on Ethics.~~21 Lastly,~~
~~committee chairs for certain committees may not receive any additional committee assignments,~~
~~as detailed in Table 4.~~
~~Table 4. Limitations on Committee Assignments for Standing Committee Chairs~~
~~House Democratic Caucus Rule 22(A)(1)~~
~~Committee Chairs limited to one committee~~
~~Committee Chairs that may receive an additional~~
~~assignment~~
~~committee assignment~~
~~Appropriations~~
~~Homeland Security~~
~~Agriculture~~
~~Oversight and Reform~~

~~16 T his~~23 Lastly, 18 This requirement does not apply to the Committee on the Budget because requirement does not apply to the Committee on the Budget because the chair isthe chair is elected by the caucuselected by the caucus before before
any other assignments to the committee are made. any other assignments to the committee are made.
1719 Democratic Caucus Democratic Caucus ~~Rule~~ Rule 21(A)(4). 21(A)(4).
1820 Democratic Caucus Democratic Caucus ~~Rule~~ Rule 21(C). 21(C).
1921 Democratic Caucus Democratic Caucus ~~Rule~~ Rule 3(C) further provides that if multiple candidates are tied in receiving the fewest votes in a 3(C) further provides that if multiple candidates are tied in receiving the fewest votes in a
round, neither is eliminated. If those candidates tie for the round, neither is eliminated. If those candidates tie for the ~~least amount of~~fewest votes in a second round of voting, they are votes in a second round of voting, they are
both eliminated from considerationboth eliminated from consideration ~~moving into the next vote.~~
20. 22 In addition, Democratic Caucus In addition, Democratic Caucus ~~Rule~~ Rule 22(C) makes exceptions that allow for specific concurrent chair assignments. 22(C) makes exceptions that allow for specific concurrent chair assignments.
~~T he~~The Chair of the Committee on Ways and Means may also concurrently serve as chair of the Joint Committee on Chair of the Committee on Ways and Means may also concurrently serve as chair of the Joint Committee on
~~T axation~~Taxation. The House Administration Chair may also concurrently serve as the chair of the . The House Administration Chair may also concurrently serve as the chair of the ~~Jo int~~Joint Committee on Committee on ~~Print~~Printing
and the Joint Committee on the Library. and the Joint Committee on the Library.
~~21 T he~~ 23 The chairs for the Committees on Appropriations, Ethics, House Administration, and joint committees may also chairs for the Committees on Appropriations, Ethics, House Administration, and joint committees may also
serve as subcommittee chairs (Democratic Caucusserve as subcommittee chairs (Democratic Caucus ~~Rule~~ Rule 22(D)(1). 22(D)(1).
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

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committee chairs for certain committees may not receive any additional committee assignments, as detailed in Table 4. Table 4. Limitations on Committee Assignments for Standing Committee Chairs House Democratic Caucus Rule 22(A)(1) Committee
~~Committee~~ Chairs limited to one committee
Committee Chairs ~~that~~ who may receive an additional
assignment
committee assignment
~~Armed~~ Appropriations Homeland Security Agriculture Oversight and Reform Armed Services Services
Judiciary Judiciary
Budget Budget
Science, Space, and Technology Science, Space, and Technology
Education Education
Rules Rules
Foreign Affairs Foreign Affairs
~~Smal~~ Small Business Business
Energy and Commerce Energy and Commerce
Transportation and Transportation and
House Administration House Administration
Veterans’ Affairs Veterans’ Affairs
Infrastructure Infrastructure
Ethics Ethics
Ways and Means Ways and Means
Natural Resources Natural Resources

Financial Services Financial Services

Source: CRS analysis of House DemocraticCRS analysis of House Democratic Caucus rules and House rules.Caucus rules and House rules.
Republican Conference Rules
As with Member committee assignments, the Steering Committee and Republican leader are As with Member committee assignments, the Steering Committee and Republican leader are
responsible for nominating committee chairs (or ranking members when in the minority), who are responsible for nominating committee chairs (or ranking members when in the minority), who are
then subject to approval by majority vote of the Republican Conference. The Steering Committee then subject to approval by majority vote of the Republican Conference. The Steering Committee
exclusively nominates chairs to exclusively nominates chairs to al all standing committees except Rules and House Administration standing committees except Rules and House Administration
(both of which are nominated by the (both of which are nominated by the ~~Speaker or~~ Republican Party leader). In considering its Republican Party leader). In considering its
recommendations, the Steering Committee interviews every Member interested in becoming a recommendations, the Steering Committee interviews every Member interested in becoming a
committee chair, including those Members who held a chair in the previous Congress and desire committee chair, including those Members who held a chair in the previous Congress and desire
to continue serving in that capacity. The Steering Committee is not ultimatelyto continue serving in that capacity. The Steering Committee is not ultimately bound to nominate bound to nominate
Members based on their committee seniority. Any chair elections that are contested by multiple Members based on their committee seniority. Any chair elections that are contested by multiple
candidates are held by secret candidates are held by secret ~~bal ot.22~~ballot.24
While Republican Members may express interest to the Steering Committee or While Republican Members may express interest to the Steering Committee or Republican party party leader for consideration to be~~leader in~~
~~consideration as~~ a committee chair, Members may not nominate themselves or others for the final a committee chair, Members may not nominate themselves or others for the final
vote conducted by the full Republican Conference. This vote may be held by secret vote conducted by the full Republican Conference. This vote may be held by secret ~~bal ot~~ballot on on
demand of a Member with support from five other Members.demand of a Member with support from five other Members.2325 For elections with more than two For elections with more than two
candidates where no Member receives a majority of the vote, the candidate receiving the candidates where no Member receives a majority of the vote, the candidate receiving the ~~least~~
~~amount of~~fewest votes is eliminated votes is eliminated ~~during~~after each round of each round of ~~bal oting~~balloting. If any chair nominee fails to secure . If any chair nominee fails to secure
the support of a majority of the Republican Conference, the entity responsible for the nomination the support of a majority of the Republican Conference, the entity responsible for the nomination
~~shal~~ shall be directed to submit a new name for consideration. Any vacancies that arise are to be be directed to submit a new name for consideration. Any vacancies that arise are to be ~~fil ed~~
filled in the matter they were in the matter they were ~~initial y~~ initially appointed and, “wherever possibleappointed and, “wherever possible,” within 30 calendar days ” within 30 calendar days
during which Congress is in session.during which Congress is in session.2426 24 Republican Conference Rule 4. 25 Republican Conference Rule 8. 26 Republican Conference Rule 16 establishes the 30 session day window for filling a vacancy and directs that such vacancy be filled under the procedures defined in Conference Rule 14, as discussed in this section. Congressional Research Service 10 Rules Governing House Committee and Subcommittee Assignment Procedures
Limitations
Conference Rule 15 limits Republican Members to serving as chair of only one standing Conference Rule 15 limits Republican Members to serving as chair of only one standing
committee at a time. This limitationcommittee at a time. This limitation does not apply to the Committees on Ethics or House does not apply to the Committees on Ethics or House
Administration, nor any joint, select, or special committees. The rule may also be waived by Administration, nor any joint, select, or special committees. The rule may also be waived by
approval of both the Steering Committee and the Republican Conference. In addition to these approval of both the Steering Committee and the Republican Conference. In addition to these
limitations, Republican Members may not be elected to serve as a committee chair limitations, Republican Members may not be elected to serve as a committee chair (or ranking member) for more than for more than
~~three~~three consecutive terms (six years). ~~terms (six years).~~

~~22 Republican Conference Rule 4.~~
~~23 Republican Conference Rule 8.~~
~~24 Republican Conference Rule 16 establishes the 30-session-day window for filling a vacancy and directs that such~~
~~vacancy be filled under the procedures defined in Conference Rule 14, as discussed in this section.~~
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Committee Vice Chair Designation
The chair of each standing committee designates a vice chair for purposes of presiding over The chair of each standing committee designates a vice chair for purposes of presiding over
meetings when the chair is absent, pursuant to House Rule XI, clause 2(d). Both the Republican meetings when the chair is absent, pursuant to House Rule XI, clause 2(d). Both the Republican
Conference and Democratic Caucus provide more specific procedures, requirements, and Conference and Democratic Caucus provide more specific procedures, requirements, and
limitations when designating this position. The Democratic Caucus also provides for the limitations when designating this position. The Democratic Caucus also provides for the
designation of a vice ranking member when the party is in the minority. The Republican designation of a vice ranking member when the party is in the minority. The Republican
Conference does not provide for an equivalent position in its rules. Conference does not provide for an equivalent position in its rules.
Republican Conference Republican Conference ~~Rules~~rules give the party’s Steering Committee the give the party’s Steering Committee the ~~optional right to designate~~option of designating
committee vice chairs and that such appointments may be made without regard to seniority. If the committee vice chairs and that such appointments may be made without regard to seniority. If the
Steering Committee opts not to designate a vice chair for a committee, the responsibility Steering Committee opts not to designate a vice chair for a committee, the responsibility ~~fal s~~falls to to
the committee chair under House the committee chair under House ~~Rules~~rules. Unlike. Unlike other committee leadership positions within the other committee leadership positions within the
Republican Conference, there is no stated term limit on service as a vice chair. Republican Conference, there is no stated term limit on service as a vice chair.
Within the Democratic Caucus, the Democrats on the committee are responsible for electing vice Within the Democratic Caucus, the Democrats on the committee are responsible for electing vice
chairs when in the majority and vice ranking members when in the minority. As with most other chairs when in the majority and vice ranking members when in the minority. As with most other
elected positions with the caucus, when there is more than one candidate for the positionelected positions with the caucus, when there is more than one candidate for the position, the vote the vote
is held by secret is held by secret ~~bal ot~~ballot unless waived. unless waived.2527 To be eligible To be eligible to serve in to serve in ~~either~~this role, Members must have role, Members must have
been on the committee for less than five terms and may only hold the position for one term. These been on the committee for less than five terms and may only hold the position for one term. These
restrictions reflect the Caucus’s intent that the positions serve as “an opportunity for a junior restrictions reflect the Caucus’s intent that the positions serve as “an opportunity for a junior
Member to gain insight and experience into the workings of the committee.”Member to gain insight and experience into the workings of the committee.”2628
Subcommittee Assignments
Just as the House divides its workload amongst its committees, so in turn do most committees Just as the House divides its workload amongst its committees, so in turn do most committees
have subcommittees that further specialize in aspects of their parent entity’s jurisdiction. have subcommittees that further specialize in aspects of their parent entity’s jurisdiction. ~~Standing~~
~~committees are permitted~~House rules permit standing committees to establish five subcommittees to establish five subcommittees ~~(Rule X, clause 5(d)(1)).~~.29 A sixth A sixth
subcommittee is permitted on any committee choosing to have a dedicated committee on subcommittee is permitted on any committee choosing to have a dedicated committee on
~~oversight (Rule X, clause 5(d)(2)(A)).27 Six House standing committees are specifical y permitted~~
~~a higher number of subcommittees, as listed in Table 5. The Committee on Appropriations has~~
~~the largest al otment of permitted subcommittees, primarily to accommodate a structure of one~~
~~subcommittee dedicated to each of the 12 regular appropriations bil s.28~~

25oversight.30 Six House 27 Under Democratic Caucus Under Democratic Caucus ~~Rule~~ Rule 3(C), a candidate must receive majority support from the committee caucus to be 3(C), a candidate must receive majority support from the committee caucus to be
elected. If more than two candidates are underelected. If more than two candidates are under consideration, the Member receiving the least amount of votes is consideration, the Member receiving the least amount of votes is
eliminated each round until one nominee receives majority support. If multiple candidates are tied in receiving the eliminated each round until one nominee receives majority support. If multiple candidates are tied in receiving the
fewest votes in a round, neither is eliminated. If those candidates tie for fewest votes in a round, neither is eliminated. If those candidates tie for ~~the least amount~~lowest number of votes in a second round of of votes in a second round of
voting, they are both eliminated from considerationvoting, they are both eliminated from consideration ~~moving into the next vote.~~
26. 28 Democratic Caucus Democratic Caucus ~~Rule~~ Rule 21(D). 21(D).
2729 House Rule House Rule ~~X, clause 2(b)(2) requires that each standing committee~~ X, clause 5(d)(1). 30 House Rule X, clause 5(d)(2)(A)). Standing committees (except the Committee on Appropriations) with (except the Committee on Appropriations) with
more than 20 Members must either establish an oversight subcommittee or assignmore than 20 Members must either establish an oversight subcommittee or assign ~~ov ersight~~ oversight duties to its subcommittees duties to its subcommittees
in their respective jurisdictionsin their respective jurisdictions~~. T he~~, pursuant to House Rule X, clause 2(b)(2). The allowance of a sixth oversight committee under allowance of a sixth oversight committee under ~~House Rule X, clause~~ clause 5(d)(A)5(d)(A),
effectively protects committees with larger membership from otherwise losing a subcommittee to the effectively protects committees with larger membership from otherwise losing a subcommittee to the ~~requi rements of~~
~~clause 2(b)(2).~~
~~28 See CRS Report RL31572, Appropriations Subcommittee Structure: History of Changes from 1920 to 2021 , by~~
~~James V. Saturno.~~
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requirements of clause 2(b)(2). Congressional Research Service 11 link to page 16 Rules Governing House Committee and Subcommittee Assignment Procedures standing committees are specifically permitted a higher number of subcommittees, as listed in Table 5. The Committee on Appropriations has the largest allotment of permitted subcommittees, primarily to accommodate a structure of one subcommittee dedicated to each of the 12 regular appropriations bills.31
Table 5. Number of Subcommittees Permitted for the 117th Congress
beyond the maximum five set by House Rule X, clause 5(d)(1) beyond the maximum five set by House Rule X, clause 5(d)(1)
Number of Subcommittees
Committee
Permitted
Appropriations Appropriations
13 13
Armed Armed Services Services
7 7
Foreign Affairs Foreign Affairs
7 7
Oversight and Reform Oversight and Reform
7 7
Transportation Transportation
6 6
Agriculture Agriculture
6 6
Source: House Rule X, clause 5(d)(1) and H.Res. 8, Section 3(n).House Rule X, clause 5(d)(1) and H.Res. 8, Section 3(n).
The size and ratio of party The size and ratio of party ~~Membership~~membership on each subcommittee are controlled by the majority on each subcommittee are controlled by the majority
party party members of its parent committee. Ratios on subcommittees of its parent committee. Ratios on subcommittees ~~usual y~~usually reflect the ratio of parties on the reflect the ratio of parties on the
full committee, resulting in majority party control of each subcommittee as full committee, resulting in majority party control of each subcommittee as ~~wel .~~ well. While While
Republican Conference Republican Conference ~~Rules~~rules are silent on these aspects of subcommittees, Democratic Caucus are silent on these aspects of subcommittees, Democratic Caucus
rules prescribe further parameters. rules prescribe further parameters. ~~Specifical y~~Specifically, Democratic Caucus Rule 27 limits individual , Democratic Caucus Rule 27 limits individual
subcommittee subcommittee ~~Membership~~membership to no more than 60% of the full committee and requires that to no more than 60% of the full committee and requires that
subcommittee ratios “subcommittee ratios “~~shal~~ shall be no less favorable to the Democratic Party than the ratio of the full be no less favorable to the Democratic Party than the ratio of the full
committee.” committee.”
Subcommittee Chair Appointments
The formal selection process for subcommittee chairs varies between the two parties, with the The formal selection process for subcommittee chairs varies between the two parties, with the
Democratic Caucus establishing a bidding process for each committee and the Republican Democratic Caucus establishing a bidding process for each committee and the Republican
Conference empowering committee chairs to determine selection procedures. In practice, both Conference empowering committee chairs to determine selection procedures. In practice, both
parties look to seniority as the primary factor in the appointment of subcommittee chairs, though parties look to seniority as the primary factor in the appointment of subcommittee chairs, though
candidates are also subject to candidates are also subject to ~~additional~~ votes of approval within their respective party votes of approval within their respective party
organizations. organizations.
Democratic Caucus Rules
Within the Democratic Caucus, Members of each committee bid for subcommittee chairs in the Within the Democratic Caucus, Members of each committee bid for subcommittee chairs in the
order of their seniority on the full committee. (The Committee on Appropriations may order of their seniority on the full committee. (The Committee on Appropriations may
alternatively use subcommittee seniority as the order for bidding amongst its membership.) The alternatively use subcommittee seniority as the order for bidding amongst its membership.) The
full committee chair does not bid to be a subcommittee chair. full committee chair does not bid to be a subcommittee chair. ~~The interested candidate~~Candidates must then must then
be approved be approved by a majority of committee caucus Members present and voting, by secret ballot (though in practice, this is almost always done by voice vote). Approval by the committee caucus marks the end of the process for the majority of subcommittee chair candidates. However, under certain 31 See CRS Report RL31572, Appropriations Subcommittee Structure: History of Changes from 1920 to 2021, by James V. Saturno. Congressional Research Service 12 Rules Governing House Committee and Subcommittee Assignment Procedures conditions, subcommittee chair candidates are subject to additional votes of approval by the ~~by a majority of their fel ow Democratic committee Members present and voting~~
~~(i.e., the committee caucus), in a vote, technical y directed to be taken by secret bal ot. For the~~
~~majority of subcommittee chair candidates, approval by the committee caucus marks the end of~~
~~the process. However, under certain conditions, subcommittee chair candidates are further subject~~
~~to additional approval votes by the Steering and Policy Committee and the full Democratic~~
Steering and Policy Committee and the full Democratic Caucus. Caucus.
Once subcommittee chairs have been approved by the committee caucus, they are submitted to Once subcommittee chairs have been approved by the committee caucus, they are submitted to
the Steering and Policy Committee for review (with the exception of the Committee on Ethics). the Steering and Policy Committee for review (with the exception of the Committee on Ethics).
Per Democratic Caucus rules, the Steering and Policy Committee must vote to approve Per Democratic Caucus rules, the Steering and Policy Committee must vote to approve
subcommittee chair nominees meeting certain criteria: subcommittee chair nominees meeting certain criteria:
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~~Rules Governing House Committee and Subcommittee Assignment Procedures~~

 Subcommittee chairs nominated within exclusive committees (except the Committee on  Subcommittee chairs nominated within exclusive committees (except the Committee on
Rules); or Rules); or
 Subcommittee chairs nominated to any non-exclusive committee, for which the nominee  Subcommittee chairs nominated to any non-exclusive committee, for which the nominee
is also a Member of an exclusive committee (except the Committee on Rules). is also a Member of an exclusive committee (except the Committee on Rules).
In considering these nominations, the Steering and Policy Committee is directed to “consider In considering these nominations, the Steering and Policy Committee is directed to “consider al
all relevant factors” of a nominee, “including merit, length of service on the committee, degree of relevant factors” of a nominee, “including merit, length of service on the committee, degree of
commitment to the Democratic agenda, and the diversity of the caucus.”commitment to the Democratic agenda, and the diversity of the caucus.”2932 Any debate on the Any debate on the
nominee is limitednominee is limited to 60 minutes, to 60 minutes, ~~equal y~~equally divided divided bybetween proponents and opponents, but can be proponents and opponents, but can be
extended by extended by majority vote of the full Democratic Caucus. At the conclusion of debate, the vote is taken by vote of the full Democratic Caucus. At the conclusion of debate, the vote is taken by
~~secret bal ot.30~~secret ballot.33
The full Democratic Caucus may also be required to approve subcommittee chair nominees. The full Democratic Caucus may also be required to approve subcommittee chair nominees.
~~Scenarios where such~~ Such a vote is a vote is ~~applicable include~~required when: when:
 Recommended by the Steering and Policy Committee;  Recommended by the Steering and Policy Committee;
 50 or more Members submit a written request to the Caucus Chair within three legislative  50 or more Members submit a written request to the Caucus Chair within three legislative
days of a days of a ~~nominee~~nomination being submitted to the Steering and Policy Committee; being submitted to the Steering and Policy Committee;
 The nominee  The nominee ~~to be~~for a subcommittee chair a subcommittee chair ~~for~~of a non-exclusive committee is also a Member a non-exclusive committee is also a Member
on on an exclusive committee (except the Committee on Rules) and has been approved by an exclusive committee (except the Committee on Rules) and has been approved by
the Steering and Policy Committee; or the Steering and Policy Committee; or
 The nominee had been convicted of a felony or censured by the House in the preceding  The nominee had been convicted of a felony or censured by the House in the preceding
Congress. Congress.
Consideration by the Democratic Caucus follows the same procedures as described for Steering Consideration by the Democratic Caucus follows the same procedures as described for Steering
and Policy Committee votesand Policy Committee votes~~, including 60 minutes of debate, equal y divided, and use of secret~~
~~bal oting.~~ (i.e., 60 minutes of equally divided debate on the nomination and vote by secret ballot). If a candidate is rejected at any stage of consideration, the bidding process starts over If a candidate is rejected at any stage of consideration, the bidding process starts over
from the beginning. from the beginning.
In general, Members of the Democratic Caucus may not hold more than one subcommittee chair In general, Members of the Democratic Caucus may not hold more than one subcommittee chair
position. Caucus Rule 22(D) prohibits full committee chairs from also serving as a subcommittee position. Caucus Rule 22(D) prohibits full committee chairs from also serving as a subcommittee
chair for any committee except for the chairs of the Appropriations, Ethics, House chair for any committee except for the chairs of the Appropriations, Ethics, House
Administration, or joint committees. Caucus Rule 28(F) limits Members to serving as chair for Administration, or joint committees. Caucus Rule 28(F) limits Members to serving as chair for
only one subcommittee. This rule does not apply to subcommittee chair positions on the only one subcommittee. This rule does not apply to subcommittee chair positions on the
committees on Ethics, House Administration, or joint committees. committees on Ethics, House Administration, or joint committees.
When a subcommittee chair vacancy arises When a subcommittee chair vacancy arises ~~prior to March 1st of the second session of the~~
~~Congress, it is fil ed~~, it is filled by the same process described above unless by the same process described above unless ~~Democratic~~the committee committee ~~Members~~
~~approve~~caucus approves different procedures by unanimous consent.34 Vacancies 32 House Democratic Caucus Rule 28(C)(2), p. 28. 33 The procedures in this paragraph follow those provided in Caucus Rule 21, as directed by Caucus Rule 28(C)(3). 34 Subcommittee chair vacancies arising ~~different procedures by unanimous consent.31 For vacancies occurring after that date,~~
~~bidding may be done by subcommittee seniority (as opposed to committee seniority) and must be~~
~~approved by majority vote of the Steering and Policy Committee (Caucus Rule 29(A)(3)).~~
~~Subcommittee chairs appointed after March 1 of the second session are also exempt for the~~
~~remainder of the Congress from Caucus Rules otherwise limiting serving as chair to multiple~~
~~committee or subcommittees.~~

~~29 House Democratic Caucus Rule 28(C)(2), p. 28.~~
~~30 T he procedures in this paragraph follow those provided in Caucus Rule 21, as directed by Caucus Rule 28(C)(3).~~
~~31 Subcommittee chair vacancies arising~~ at any time within the Committee on Appropriations must be filled within 30 at any time within the Committee on Appropriations must be filled within 30
calendar days, pursuant to Caucuscalendar days, pursuant to Caucus ~~Rule~~ Rule 29(B). 29(B).
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Rules Governing House Committee and Subcommittee Assignment Procedures
occurring after March 1st of the second session of the Congress may instead be filled directly by the next most senior party member of the subcommittee. For the remainder of the Congress, subcommittee chairs appointed after March 1 of the second session are exempt from Caucus rules otherwise limiting service as chair on more than one committee or subcommittee.35
Republican Conference Rules
The Republican Conference empowers its committee chairs to determine the process by which The Republican Conference empowers its committee chairs to determine the process by which
subcommittee chairs are selected with few limitations. subcommittee chairs are selected with few limitations. ~~Pursuant to Conference Rule 19(a)(1),~~
~~committee~~Committee chairs must chairs must ~~provide~~produce written written procedures for selecting subcommittee chairs prior to the committee’s organization meeting and ~~procedures to Republican committee Members prior to the~~
~~party’s committee organization meeting. The chair’s proposed procedures may be amended or~~
may be amended or rejected by rejected by a majority vote of the committeemajority vote of the committee~~’s party membership.~~ caucus.36 For the Committee on For the Committee on
Appropriations, the Appropriations, the committee chair nominates subcommittee chairs chair nominates subcommittee chairs ~~who are then subject to~~for approval by the approval by the
Republican Steering Committee. Any vacancies Republican Steering Committee. Any vacancies ~~that may arise are fil ed~~to subcommittee chairs are filled in the same in the same manner as they were initially appointed~~manner as~~
~~laid out by committee chairs~~. .
While committee chairs may determine the selection process for subcommittee chairs, Republican While committee chairs may determine the selection process for subcommittee chairs, Republican
Conference rules also place further limitations Conference rules also place further limitations toon service in such positions. As with other service in such positions. As with other
committee leadership positions, Republican Members cannot serve as a subcommittee chair (or committee leadership positions, Republican Members cannot serve as a subcommittee chair (or
ranking minority member) for more than three consecutive terms (six years)ranking minority member) for more than three consecutive terms (six years)~~, pursuant to~~
~~Conference Rule 14(e). Additional y, no~~ .37 Additionally, no Member may serve concurrently as chair of more than Member may serve concurrently as chair of more than
one subcommittee (or standing committee) unless a waiver has been granted by the Republican one subcommittee (or standing committee) unless a waiver has been granted by the Republican
Conference. This limitation does not apply to subcommittee chair positions on the Committees on Conference. This limitation does not apply to subcommittee chair positions on the Committees on
Ethics, House Administration, Ethics, House Administration, or on joint or select committees. joint or select committees.
Subcommittee Assignment Procedures
House House ~~Rules~~rules limit limit Members to serving on not more than four subcommittees of standing Members to serving on not more than four subcommittees of standing
committees, but also provide that each party caucus committees, but also provide that each party caucus or conference may propose exceptions to this limitation for may propose exceptions to this limitation for
their respective their respective ~~Memberships.32~~memberships.38 As a result, it is possible for Members to serve on more than four As a result, it is possible for Members to serve on more than four
subcommittees, subject to the approval of their party caucus. Exceptions to this four subcommittees, subject to the approval of their party caucus. Exceptions to this four
subcommittee limit are commonly referred to as waivers. Waivers are issued to Members on subcommittee limit are commonly referred to as waivers. Waivers are issued to Members on a a
case by case basis depending on the needs of the party and vacancies to be case by case basis depending on the needs of the party and vacancies to be ~~fil ed~~filled. .
Both the Democratic Caucus and Republican Conference have rules addressing the appointment Both the Democratic Caucus and Republican Conference have rules addressing the appointment
of Members and chairs to subcommittees. The Republican Conference largely defers authority to of Members and chairs to subcommittees. The Republican Conference largely defers authority to
committee chairs, when in the majority, in making these assignments. In contrast, the Democratic committee chairs, when in the majority, in making these assignments. In contrast, the Democratic
Caucus has explicit procedures for the appointment of subcommittee Members and chairs. Unlike Caucus has explicit procedures for the appointment of subcommittee Members and chairs. Unlike
committee assignments, subcommittee assignments are not approved on the House floor. committee assignments, subcommittee assignments are not approved on the House floor.
Committees Committees ~~usual y~~usually vote to approve these assignments at the organizational meeting of the vote to approve these assignments at the organizational meeting of the
committee held at the beginning of a new Congress. committee held at the beginning of a new Congress.
Democratic Caucus Rules
Following the appointment of subcommittee chairs, House Democrats use a five-step bidding Following the appointment of subcommittee chairs, House Democrats use a five-step bidding
process to assign their Members to subcommittees. The procedures, detailed in Caucus Rule process to assign their Members to subcommittees. The procedures, detailed in Caucus Rule
35 Democratic Caucus Rule 28(G). 36 Republican Conference Rule 19(a)(1). 37 Republican Conference Rule 14(e). 38 House Rule X, clause 5(b)(2)(A). Congressional Research Service 14 Rules Governing House Committee and Subcommittee Assignment Procedures 30(D), are designed to credit prior committee service and committee seniority while also ensuring 30(D), are designed to credit prior committee service and committee seniority while also ensuring
that new committee Members are guaranteed at least one subcommittee assignment. In the steps that new committee Members are guaranteed at least one subcommittee assignment. In the steps
below, Members bid on one subcommittee vacancy per round in order of their seniority on the below, Members bid on one subcommittee vacancy per round in order of their seniority on the
committee, as follows: committee, as follows:
1. Members who served on the committee in the previous Congress may choose to 1. Members who served on the committee in the previous Congress may choose to
retain retain ~~one33~~one39 of their prior subcommittee assignments. Subcommittee chairs do not of their prior subcommittee assignments. Subcommittee chairs do not

~~32 House Rule X, clause 5(b)(2)(A).~~
~~33 If a subcommittee from the prior Congress is divided into two new subcommittees, the Member is allowed to bid on~~
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~~Rules Governing House Committee and Subcommittee Assignment Procedures~~

participate in this round (with the exception of the Committee on participate in this round (with the exception of the Committee on
Appropriations). Appropriations).
2. Members eligible 2. Members eligible to participate in step 1 who opted out of retaining an existing to participate in step 1 who opted out of retaining an existing
assignment may bid on one available assignment may bid on one available subcommittee slot. subcommittee slot.
3. New committee Members then may bid on one available 3. New committee Members then may bid on one available seat (and are guaranteed seat (and are guaranteed
one assignment under Caucus rules). one assignment under Caucus rules).
4. 4. Al All committee Members may then continue to bid on availablecommittee Members may then continue to bid on available subcommittee subcommittee
slots in rounds in order of their seniority on the full committee. slots in rounds in order of their seniority on the full committee.3440 Subcommittee Subcommittee
chairs may participate in bidding at this point. chairs may participate in bidding at this point.
5. If any subcommittee slots remain, Members serving on the committee on a 5. If any subcommittee slots remain, Members serving on the committee on a
temporary basis may bid on vacancies in order of their seniority on the temporary basis may bid on vacancies in order of their seniority on the
committee. committee.
Following each bid for assignment, the committee caucus must approve the request. Following each bid for assignment, the committee caucus must approve the request.
Under Caucus Rule 3, these elections are conducted by secret Under Caucus Rule 3, these elections are conducted by secret ~~bal ot~~ballot (unless waived) and subject to and subject to
majority approvalmajority approval ~~unless waived~~. Given the number of assignments to be . Given the number of assignments to be ~~fil ed~~filled and the and the
fact that only one Member per one assignment can be considered at a time, the committee fact that only one Member per one assignment can be considered at a time, the committee
caucus is likely to agree to these assignments without objection in most cases, approving caucus is likely to agree to these assignments without objection in most cases, approving
al all bids at the conclusion of the process. The full committee bids at the conclusion of the process. The full committee ~~wil~~ will then approve both then approve both
parties’ slate of subcommittee assignments at its organizational meeting. parties’ slate of subcommittee assignments at its organizational meeting. ~~Any vacancies~~
~~that later arise in subcommittees are fil ed~~Subcommittee vacancies are filled by the same process above, though the by the same process above, though the
committee caucus may determine different procedures by unanimous consent. committee caucus may determine different procedures by unanimous consent.
Democratic Caucus Rule 31 reinforces the limitation in House rules on Member service to no Democratic Caucus Rule 31 reinforces the limitation in House rules on Member service to no
more than four subcommittees. Members found in violation by a survey of the Caucus are more than four subcommittees. Members found in violation by a survey of the Caucus are
required to comply within 30 calendar days or the matter required to comply within 30 calendar days or the matter ~~wil~~ will be referred to the Steering and be referred to the Steering and
Policy Committee for disposition. However, this four-subcommittee rule can be waived for Policy Committee for disposition. However, this four-subcommittee rule can be waived for
~~individual~~ individual Members by the Caucus on a case by case basis. Members by the Caucus on a case by case basis.
Republican Conference Rules
For House Republicans, the subcommittee assignment process may vary from committee to For House Republicans, the subcommittee assignment process may vary from committee to
committee and from Congress to Congress. In contrast with the multi-step bidding process committee and from Congress to Congress. In contrast with the multi-step bidding process
codified in the Democratic Caucus’s codified in the Democratic Caucus’s ~~Rules~~rules, the Republican Conference gives committee chairs , the Republican Conference gives committee chairs
the authority to establish the process by which subcommittee assignments are made. The only the authority to establish the process by which subcommittee assignments are made. The only
written requirement placed on committee chairs appears in Conference Rule 19(a)(1), which written requirement placed on committee chairs appears in Conference Rule 19(a)(1), which
directs that written procedures be provided to Republican committee Members prior to the party’s directs that written procedures be provided to Republican committee Members prior to the party’s
~~committee organization meeting. The rule also provides that amendments to the chair’s~~
~~procedures can be adopted by a majority of the committee’s Republican Members.~~
~~Subcommittee Vice Chair Designation~~
~~House Rule XI, clause 2(d) requires that committee chairs appoint a vice chair for each~~
~~subcommittee (as wel as for the full committee itself, as discussed previously). Vice chairs are~~

~~both new entities. T his round of bidding~~ committee 39 If a subcommittee from the prior Congress is divided into two new subcommittees, the Member is allowed to bid on both new entities. This round of bidding within the Committee on Appropriations allows prior Members to retain two within the Committee on Appropriations allows prior Members to retain two
prior subcommittee assignments. prior subcommittee assignments.
34 40 For the Committee on Appropriations, bidding For the Committee on Appropriations, bidding continues in committee rank order for Members who only have one continues in committee rank order for Members who only have one
subcommittee assignment, then opens up to all committee Members for biddingsubcommittee assignment, then opens up to all committee Members for bidding ~~on remainin g~~ on remaining slots. As noted slots. As noted
previously, continuing Members of the Committee on Appropriations may opt to retain two subcommittee assignments previously, continuing Members of the Committee on Appropriations may opt to retain two subcommittee assignments
in the first step of the biddingin the first step of the bidding process. process.
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link to page 25 link to page 26 link to page 25 link to page 26 Rules Governing House Committee and Subcommittee Assignment Procedures

organization meeting. The rule also provides that amendments to the chair’s procedures can be adopted by a majority of the committee’s Republican Members. Subcommittee Vice Chair Designation House Rule XI, clause 2(d) requires that committee chairs appoint a vice chair for each subcommittee (as well as for the full committee itself, as discussed previously). Vice chairs are selected from the Members of the majority party on each subcommittee for the purpose of selected from the Members of the majority party on each subcommittee for the purpose of
presiding over meetings when the subcommittee chair is absent. As previously discussed, the presiding over meetings when the subcommittee chair is absent. As previously discussed, the
Democratic Caucus and Republican Conference consider different criteria in selecting full Democratic Caucus and Republican Conference consider different criteria in selecting full
committee vice chairs, however, both entities’ rules are silent on the appointment of committee vice chairs, however, both entities’ rules are silent on the appointment of
subcommittee vice chairs. As a result, such appointments remain at the discretion of each subcommittee vice chairs. As a result, such appointments remain at the discretion of each
committee’s chair. committee’s chair.
Non-Standing Committee Assignments
In addition to the standing committees of the House, there are also various other types of non-In addition to the standing committees of the House, there are also various other types of non-
standing committees that have special requirements as to the makeup of their membership. In standing committees that have special requirements as to the makeup of their membership. In
general, the Speaker appoints Members to these committees in consultation with the minority general, the Speaker appoints Members to these committees in consultation with the minority
leader and in accordance with any other requirements specified in the establishing legislation. leader and in accordance with any other requirements specified in the establishing legislation.
Democratic Caucus Rule 33 encourages the Speaker to give “due consideration” to Democratic Caucus Rule 33 encourages the Speaker to give “due consideration” to al all Members Members
expressing interest in being appointed to these committees. The rule further specifies that expressing interest in being appointed to these committees. The rule further specifies that al all such such
appointments are for the duration of one Congress and appointments are for the duration of one Congress and al all seats are treated as vacant at the start of seats are treated as vacant at the start of
a new Congress. Republican Conference Rule 13 reaffirms the right of the Speaker to appoint a new Congress. Republican Conference Rule 13 reaffirms the right of the Speaker to appoint
Members to Members to al all non-standing committees as specified under law. In general, select and joint non-standing committees as specified under law. In general, select and joint
committees have additional requirements placed on the composition of their respective committees have additional requirements placed on the composition of their respective
memberships. The composition of and party rules relating to the Permanent Select Committee on memberships. The composition of and party rules relating to the Permanent Select Committee on
~~Intel igence~~Intelligence is discussed below. More details on the composition of joint committees can be found is discussed below. More details on the composition of joint committees can be found
iin Appendix B and regarding temporary select committees iand regarding temporary select committees in Appendix C.
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence
The size and composition of the Permanent Select Committee on The size and composition of the Permanent Select Committee on ~~Intel igence~~Intelligence is defined by House is defined by House
Rule X, clause 11, but can be adjusted by unanimous consent.Rule X, clause 11, but can be adjusted by unanimous consent.3541 Under the rule, the committee Under the rule, the committee
~~shal~~ shall not have more than 22 Members and is subject to the following requirements:not have more than 22 Members and is subject to the following requirements:3642
 Not more than 13 Members from the same party;  Not more than 13 Members from the same party;
 At least one Member from the Committee on Appropriations;  At least one Member from the Committee on Appropriations;
 At least one Member from the Committee on Armed Services;  At least one Member from the Committee on Armed Services;
 At least one Member from the Committee on Foreign Affairs; and  At least one Member from the Committee on Foreign Affairs; and
 At least one Member from the Committee on the Judiciary. At least one Member from the Committee on the Judiciary. 41 See Precedents of the U.S. House of Representatives, vol. 1, ch. 3, §8.8, pp. 308-309. 42 During the 117th Congress, by unanimous consent the House appointed 23 Members to the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, one more than allowed for under the rule. See Congressional Record, daily edition, vol. 167 (March 12, 2021), p. H1362. Congressional Research Service 16 Rules Governing House Committee and Subcommittee Assignment Procedures
Ex officio membership is also given to the Speaker and minority leader (neither of whom is given Ex officio membership is also given to the Speaker and minority leader (neither of whom is given
a vote during committee business). Members may not serve on the committee for more than four a vote during committee business). Members may not serve on the committee for more than four
Congresses within a period of six Congresses, though this limitation does not apply to the chair or Congresses within a period of six Congresses, though this limitation does not apply to the chair or
ranking member.ranking member.3743
Both the Democratic Caucus and Republican Conference have additional rules that apply to the Both the Democratic Caucus and Republican Conference have additional rules that apply to the
composition of the Permanent Select Committee on Permanent Select Committee on ~~Intel igence~~Intelligence. Democratic Caucus Rule 18(D) limits Members to . Democratic Caucus Rule 18(D) limits Members to
one standing committee assignment while also serving on one standing committee assignment while also serving on ~~Intel igence~~the Intelligence Committee. As previously noted, while ~~. As previously noted, while~~

~~35 See Precedents of the U.S. House of Representatives, vol. 1, ch. 3, §8.8, pp. 308-309.~~
~~36 During the 117th Congress, by unanimous consent the House appointed 23 Members to the Permanent Select~~
~~Committee on Intelligence, one more than allowed for under the rule. See Congressional Record, daily edition, vol. 167~~
~~(March 12, 2021), p. H1362.~~
~~37 Service on the committee for only a portion of a Congress also does not count against the four Congress limit.~~
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serving on the committee, Democratic Members may take a leave of absence from their prior serving on the committee, Democratic Members may take a leave of absence from their prior
committee or subcommittee assignments and have their seniority restored upon committee or subcommittee assignments and have their seniority restored upon ~~return to said~~
~~committees or subcommittees~~their return. Under Republican Conference . Under Republican Conference ~~Rules~~rules, Republican chairs and , Republican chairs and
ranking members on ranking members on ~~Intel igence~~the committee and its subcommittees are limited to not more than three and its subcommittees are limited to not more than three
consecutive terms (six years). consecutive terms (six years).
Removal from Committees
The House has the abilityThe House has the ability to remove a Member from one or more of their committee assignments to remove a Member from one or more of their committee assignments
if a majority if a majority ~~seeks~~agrees to do so. This is to do so. This is ~~usual y~~usually done in a similar fashion to how committee done in a similar fashion to how committee
assignments are made, with the decision to remove first determined by the relevant party caucus assignments are made, with the decision to remove first determined by the relevant party caucus
and the formal act of removal occurring through the adoption of a simple resolution on the House and the formal act of removal occurring through the adoption of a simple resolution on the House
floor. However, in any case, a majority of the House has the ability to remove a Member from floor. However, in any case, a majority of the House has the ability to remove a Member from
their committee assignments even iftheir committee assignments even if this action is not initiated by the Member’s own party.44 ~~not initiated by the Member’s own party.38~~
~~Member committee assignments are also contingent on their continued membership within their~~
~~party. When a Member switches political parties or chooses to become independent, their existing~~
~~committee assignments are automatical y nullified under House Rule X, clause 5(b)(1). Any~~
~~further committee assignments are then at the discretion of the party to which the Member has~~
~~newly affiliated themselves.~~
Both the Democratic Caucus and Republican Conference vest their respective steering Both the Democratic Caucus and Republican Conference vest their respective steering
committees with the authority to recommend that a Member be removed from their assigned committees with the authority to recommend that a Member be removed from their assigned
committees.committees.3945 Such a recommendation is then subject to the approval of the full party caucus or Such a recommendation is then subject to the approval of the full party caucus or
conference. Democratic Caucus Rules 24 and 25 conference. Democratic Caucus Rules 24 and 25 ~~automatical y~~automatically remove a committee or remove a committee or
subcommittee chair from that position if the Member is indicted or convicted of a felony subcommittee chair from that position if the Member is indicted or convicted of a felony
imposing a sentence of two or more years.imposing a sentence of two or more years.4046 Republican Conference Rule 27 specifies that a Republican Conference Rule 27 specifies that a
member convicted of a felony carrying a sentence of two or more years is to be removed from member convicted of a felony carrying a sentence of two or more years is to be removed from
their committee assignments within 10 legislative days. Under Republican Conference Rule 28, a their committee assignments within 10 legislative days. Under Republican Conference Rule 28, a
committee chair censured by the House is committee chair censured by the House is ~~automatical y~~automatically removed from their leadership position. Member committee assignments are also contingent on their continued membership within their party. When a Member switches political parties or chooses to become independent, their existing committee assignments are automatically nullified under House Rule X, clause 5(b)(1). Any further committee assignments are then at the discretion of the party to which the Member has newly affiliated themselves. 43 Service on the committee for only a portion of a Congress also does not count against the four congress limit. 44 For example, twice during the 117th Congress (2020-2021), the majority party in the House initiated and adopted resolutions to remove minority party members from committee assignments without the support of the minority party (see H.Res. 72 and H.Res. 789). 45 Democratic Caucus Rules 10(C)(2) and Republican ~~removed from their chairmanship.~~

~~38 For example, during the 117th Congress (2020-2021), the House adopted H.Res. 72, to remove Representative~~
~~Marjorie T aylor Greene from her assigned committees. T he resolution to remove a Republican Member from their~~
~~committee assignments was proposed by a Democrat and adopted without the support of a majority of the Republicans~~
~~in the House, in a 230-199 vote.~~
~~39 Democratic Caucus Rules 10(C)(2) and Republican~~ Conference Rule 11. In situations where the Republican Conference Rule 11. In situations where the Republican
Conference is considering Conference is considering ~~removing~~the removal of a Member from a standing committee, the committee chair participates as a voting a Member from a standing committee, the committee chair participates as a voting
member of the Steering Committee, the entity which takes the preliminary vote on member of the Steering Committee, the entity which takes the preliminary vote on ~~whether to remove.~~
40removal. 46 Democratic Caucus Democratic Caucus ~~Rule~~ Rule 25 also automatically removes a committee or subcommittee chair if they are censured by 25 also automatically removes a committee or subcommittee chair if they are censured by
the Housethe House~~. Caucus Rules~~ or convicted of a crime. Caucus Rules 24 and 25 both automatically reinstates a chair if they are found not guilty or 24 and 25 both automatically reinstates a chair if they are found not guilty or if their conviction their conviction
is overturned, unlessis overturned, unless the Caucusthe Caucus votes otherwise within 10 legislative days.votes otherwise within 10 legislative days.
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Appendix A. Composition of Party Steering
Committees
Table A-1. Republican Steering Committee Membership
Member
Speaker of the House (when the Republican Party is in the majority) Speaker of the House (when the Republican Party is in the majority)
Republican Leader Republican Leader
Republican Whip Republican Whip
Chief Deputy Whip Chief Deputy Whip
Chair of the Republican Conference Chair of the Republican Conference
Chair of the National Republican Congressional Chair of the National Republican Congressional Committee Committee
Former Former Chair of the National Republican Congressional Committee Chair of the National Republican Congressional Committee
Chair of the Committee Chair of the Committee on Policy on Policy
Vice-Chair of the Republican Conference Vice-Chair of the Republican Conference
Secretary of the Republican Conference Secretary of the Republican Conference
Member designated by the Speaker/Leader Member designated by the Speaker/Leader
Sophomore Sophomore Class Representative Class Representative
Freshman Class Representative Freshman Class Representative
Dean of the House (when a Member of the House Republican Dean of the House (when a Member of the House Republican
Conference) Conference)
Region I Representative Region I Representative
Region II Representative Region II Representative
Region III Representative Region III Representative
Region IV Representative Region IV Representative
Region V Representative Region V Representative
Region VI Representative Region VI Representative
Region VII Representative Region VII Representative
Region VIII Representative Region VIII Representative
Region IX Representative Region IX Representative
Region X Representative Region X Representative
Region XI Representative Region XI Representative
Region XII Representative Region XII Representative
~~Smal~~ Small State Representative State Representative
Texas Representative Texas Representative
Texas Representative II Texas Representative II
Florida Florida Representative Representative
Ohio Representative Ohio Representative
Rotating Standing committee Rotating Standing committee chaichaira
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Source: House Republican Conference Rule 11(B), at https://www.gop.gov/conference-rules-of-the-117th-House Republican Conference Rule 11(B), at https://www.gop.gov/conference-rules-of-the-117th-
congress/.congress/.
Notes: Republican MembersRepublican Members appointed to the appointed to the ~~House~~ Republican Conference’sRepublican Conference’s Steering CommitteeSteering Committee for the for the
117th Congress can be found at https://www.gop.gov/steering-committee/.117th Congress can be found at https://www.gop.gov/steering-committee/. Pursuant to Conference Rule 11(d), Pursuant to Conference Rule 11(d),
when the Republican Party is in the majoritywhen the Republican Party is in the majority in the House, the Speakerin the House, the Speaker has 4 votes and the Republican has 4 votes and the Republican ~~leader~~Leader has has
2 2 votes in the Steering Committee.votes in the Steering Committee. When the party is in the minority,When the party is in the minority, the Republican the Republican ~~leader~~ Leader has 4 votes and the has 4 votes and the
Republican Whip has 2 votes. Republican Whip has 2 votes.
a. The chair of a standing committeea. The chair of a standing committee participates in the Steering Committeeparticipates in the Steering Committee when decisionswhen decisions are being made to are being made to
elect or remove elect or remove ~~Members~~ Members from that standing committee.from that standing committee.
Table A-2. Democratic Steering & Policy Committee Membership
Member
Speaker of the House (when the Democratic Speaker of the House (when the Democratic Party is in the majority) Party is in the majority)
Co-Chair for Steering Co-Chair for Steering
Co-Chair for Policy Co-Chair for Policy
Co-Chair Co-Chair
Democratic Democratic Leader Leader
Democratic Democratic Whip Whip
Assistant Speaker Assistant Speaker
Caucus Chair Caucus Chair
Caucus Vice Chair Caucus Vice Chair
Chair of the Democratic Chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Congressional Campaign Committee
Co-Chair, Democratic Co-Chair, Democratic Policy and Communications Committee Policy and Communications Committee
Co-Chair, Democratic Co-Chair, Democratic Policy and Communications Committee Policy and Communications Committee
Co-Chair, Democratic Co-Chair, Democratic Policy and Communications Committee Policy and Communications Committee
Co-Chair, Democratic Co-Chair, Democratic Policy and Communications Committee Policy and Communications Committee
Caucus Leadership Caucus Leadership Representative Representative
Freshman Leadership Freshman Leadership Representative Representative
Chair, Committee Chair, Committee on Caucus Procedures on Caucus Procedures
Parliamentarian Parliamentarian
Senior Chief Deputy Whip Senior Chief Deputy Whip
Senior Chief Deputy Whip Senior Chief Deputy Whip
Chief Deputy Whip Chief Deputy Whip
Chief Deputy Whip Chief Deputy Whip
Chief Deputy Whip Chief Deputy Whip
Chief Deputy Whip Chief Deputy Whip
Chief Deputy Whip Chief Deputy Whip
Chief Deputy Whip Chief Deputy Whip
Chief Deputy Whip Chief Deputy Whip
Chief Deputy Whip Chief Deputy Whip
Freshman Class Representative Freshman Class Representative
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Member
Region 1 Representative Region 1 Representative
Region 2 Representative Region 2 Representative
Region 3 Representative Region 3 Representative
Region 4 Representative Region 4 Representative
Region 5 Representative Region 5 Representative
Region 6 Representative Region 6 Representative
Region 7 Representative Region 7 Representative
Region 8 Representative Region 8 Representative
Region 9 Representative Region 9 Representative
Region 10 Representative Region 10 Representative
Region 11 Representative Region 11 Representative
Region 12 Representative Region 12 Representative
Chair, Committee Chair, Committee on Appropriations on Appropriations
Chair, Committee Chair, Committee on the Budget on the Budget
Chair, Committee Chair, Committee on Rules on Rules
Chair, Committee Chair, Committee on Energy & Commerce on Energy & Commerce
Chair, Committee Chair, Committee on Financial Services on Financial Services
Chair, Committee Chair, Committee on Ways & Means on Ways & Means
Up to 15 Members Up to 15 Members appointed by the Speaker appointed by the Speaker
Sources: CRS analysis of House DemocraticCRS analysis of House Democratic Caucus Caucus ~~Rules~~rules (at https://www.dems.gov/rules-of-the-democratic- (at https://www.dems.gov/rules-of-the-democratic-
caucus) and presscaucus) and press ~~releases~~ releases by House Democraticby House Democratic leadership offices.leadership offices.
Notes: The House DemocraticThe House Democratic Caucus does not make public the membershipCaucus does not make public the membership of its Steering and Policy of its Steering and Policy
Committee.Committee.

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Appendix B. Composition of Joint Committees
Joint Committees are established by law and are composed of members from both the House and Joint Committees are established by law and are composed of members from both the House and
Senate. In the 117th Congress (2021-2022), four joint committees are in operation. The Speaker Senate. In the 117th Congress (2021-2022), four joint committees are in operation. The Speaker
appoints Members to these committees in consultation with the minority leader and in accordance appoints Members to these committees in consultation with the minority leader and in accordance
with requirements specified in the respective committee’s establishing legislation. The full with requirements specified in the respective committee’s establishing legislation. The full
composition of each joint committee is listed below. composition of each joint committee is listed below.
Table B-1. Joint Committee on Taxation
26 U.S.C. §8002 26 U.S.C. §8002
Five Members from the Senate Committee on
Five Members from the House Committee on
Finance
Ways & Means
Three majority Three majority Members & two minority Members Members & two minority Members
Three majority Three majority Members & two minority Members Members & two minority Members

Table B-2. Joint Committee on Printing
44 U.S.C. §101 44 U.S.C. §101
Five Members from the Senate Committee on
Five Members from the ~~House~~ Committee on
House Rules and Administration
~~House~~ Administrationa
Four Members & the Chair of the committee Four Members & the Chair of the committee
Four Members & the Chair of the committee Four Members & the Chair of the committee
a. 2 U.S.C. §132b references a. 2 U.S.C. §132b references the House Committeethe House Committee on House Oversight. The committee’son House Oversight. The committee’s name was changed name was changed
to the Committee to the Committee on House Administrationon House Administration by H.Res.by H.Res. 5 during the 106th Congress (1999-2000). 5 during the 106th Congress (1999-2000).
Table B-3. Joint Committee on the Library
2 U.S.C. §132b 2 U.S.C. §132b
Five Members from the Senate Committee on
Five Members from the ~~House~~ Committee on
House Rules and Administration
~~House~~ Administrationa
Four Members and the Chair of the committee Four Members and the Chair of the committee
Four Members and the Chair of the committee Four Members and the Chair of the committee
a. 2 U.S.C. §132b references a. 2 U.S.C. §132b references the House Committeethe House Committee on House Oversight. The committee’son House Oversight. The committee’s name was changed name was changed
to the Committee to the Committee on House Administrationon House Administration by H.Res.by H.Res. 5 during the 106th Congress (1999-2000). 5 during the 106th Congress (1999-2000).
Table B-4. Joint Economic Committee
15 U.S.C. §1024 15 U.S.C. §1024
Ten Members of the Senate
Ten Members of the House
Six majority Six majority ~~Members~~ Members and four minority Members and four minority Members
Six majority Six majority ~~Members~~ Members and four minority Members and four minority Members

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Appendix C. Composition of Temporary House
Select Committees
Table C-1. Select Committee on the Climate Crisis
Established by H.Res. 6, Sec. 104(f), 116th Congress (2019-2020) Established by H.Res. 6, Sec. 104(f), 116th Congress (2019-2020)
15 Committee Members
9 Members 9 Members appointed by the Speaker,appointed by the Speaker, one of which is one of which is
6 Members 6 Members appointed on recommendationappointed on recommendation of the of the
designated as Chair. designated as Chair.
Minority Leader. Minority Leader.
Note: The Select CommitteeThe Select Committee on the Climateon the Climate ~~Crisis~~ Crisis was continued by H.Res.was continued by H.Res. 8, Sec. 4(d), during the 117th 8, Sec. 4(d), during the 117th
Congress (2021-2022). Congress (2021-2022).
Table C-2. Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress
Established by H.Res. 6, Sec. 201, 116th Congress (2019-2020) Established by H.Res. 6, Sec. 201, 116th Congress (2019-2020)
12 Committee Members
6 Members 6 Members appointed by the Speaker,appointed by the Speaker, of which of which
6 Members 6 Members appointed on recommendationappointed on recommendation of the of the
 
Minority Leader, of which at least 1 Member at least 1 Member serving in their first term; serving in their first term;
~~Minority Leader, of which~~

 

at least 1 Member at least 1 Member from the Committeefrom the Committee on on

at least 1 Member at least 1 Member serving in their first term; serving in their first term;
Rules; Rules;
 
at least 1 Member at least 1 Member from the Committeefrom the Committee on on
 
Rules; Rules;

at least 1 Member at least 1 Member from the Committeefrom the Committee on on
House Administration; and House Administration; and
 
at least 1 Member at least 1 Member from the Committeefrom the Committee on on
 
House Administration; and House Administration; and

1 Member designated as Chair. 1 Member designated as Chair.
 
1 Member designated as Vice Chair. 1 Member designated as Vice Chair.
Note: The Select CommitteeThe Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress was continued by H.Res. 8, Sec. 4(e), during on the Modernization of Congress was continued by H.Res. 8, Sec. 4(e), during
the 117th Congress (2021-2022). the 117th Congress (2021-2022).
Table C-3. Select Committee Economic Disparity and Fairness in Growth
Established by H.Res. 8, Sec. 4(g), 117th Congress (2021-2022) Established by H.Res. 8, Sec. 4(g), 117th Congress (2021-2022)
15 Committee Members
9 Members 9 Members appointed by the Speaker. appointed by the Speaker.
6 Members 6 Members appointed on recommendationappointed on recommendation of the of the
Chair is also designated by the Speaker. Chair is also designated by the Speaker.
Minority Leader. Minority Leader.

Author Information

Michael Greene Michael Greene

Analyst on Congress and the Legislative Process Analyst on Congress and the Legislative Process

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