Guide to Committee Activity Reports: Purpose, Rules, and Contents

Changes from September 1, 2022 to May 31, 2023

This page shows textual changes in the document between the two versions indicated in the dates above. Textual matter removed in the later version is indicated with ~~red strikethrough~~ and textual matter added in the later version is indicated with blue.

Guide to Committee Activity Reports: Purpose, ~~September 1, 2022~~May 31, 2023
Rules, and Contents
Ida A. Brudnick
All House committees and most Senate committees are required to prepare reports each All House committees and most Senate committees are required to prepare reports each ~~Congress~~
Specialist on the Congress Specialist on the Congress
Congress detailing their activities. detailing their activities.

These committee activity reports provide a historical record of a committee’s legislative These committee activity reports provide a historical record of a committee’s legislative ~~and~~

and oversight actions. They may serve as an introduction to the work of the individual committees, oversight actions. They may serve as an introduction to the work of the individual committees,
and, in many cases, they also provide information that is otherwise either not aggregated in one place or not available and, in many cases, they also provide information that is otherwise either not aggregated in one place or not available
elsewhere. elsewhere.
The committee activity reports are required by the rules of the House (House Rule XI, clause 1(d)) and Senate (Senate Rule The committee activity reports are required by the rules of the House (House Rule XI, clause 1(d)) and Senate (Senate Rule
XXVI, paragraph 8(b)). The reporting requirement dates to the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1970 (2 U.S.C. §190d). XXVI, paragraph 8(b)). The reporting requirement dates to the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1970 (2 U.S.C. §190d).
Each report covers the activities for one Congress. In odd-numbered years, House reports are to be filed by January 2, while Each report covers the activities for one Congress. In odd-numbered years, House reports are to be filed by January 2, while
Senate reports are to be filed by March 31. Senate reports are to be filed by March 31.
This report includes a discussion of the types of information that may be included in the activity reports, variations across This report includes a discussion of the types of information that may be included in the activity reports, variations across
reports and time, and the filing process. reports and time, and the filing process.
Table 1 provides a comparison of the committee activity reports and other congressional publications, including the types of provides a comparison of the committee activity reports and other congressional publications, including the types of
information found in each as well as their timeframe for coverage and publication. For example, the activity reports may be information found in each as well as their timeframe for coverage and publication. For example, the activity reports may be
more likely to provide discussion, analysis, or statistics than committee calendars (if published). They also provide a more likely to provide discussion, analysis, or statistics than committee calendars (if published). They also provide a
retrospective accounting of the actions taken by a particular committee, while House oversight plans, for example, provide retrospective accounting of the actions taken by a particular committee, while House oversight plans, for example, provide
information on prospective or planned actions. information on prospective or planned actions.
TheThe Appendix lists activity reports issued by the House and Senate committees covering the 110th, 111th, 112th, 113th, 114th, lists activity reports issued by the House and Senate committees covering the 110th, 111th, 112th, 113th, 114th,
115th115th, 116th, and 117th~~, and 116th~~ Congresses. Congresses.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

link to page 13 link to page 16 link to page 13 link to page 16 Guide to Committee Activity Reports: Purpose, Rules, and Contents

Overview and Introduction
Both the House and Senate have adopted rules requiring their committees to produce regular Both the House and Senate have adopted rules requiring their committees to produce regular
reports of their activities. reports of their activities.
Pursuant to House Rule XI, clause 1(d)(1), each House standing committee is to submit a report Pursuant to House Rule XI, clause 1(d)(1), each House standing committee is to submit a report
to the House no later than January 2 of each odd-numbered year detailing its activities during the to the House no later than January 2 of each odd-numbered year detailing its activities during the
closing Congress.1 closing Congress.1
Pursuant to Senate Rule XXVI, paragraph 8(b), each Senate standing committee—with the Pursuant to Senate Rule XXVI, paragraph 8(b), each Senate standing committee—with the
exception of the Senate Appropriations Committee and Senate Budget Committee—is to submit exception of the Senate Appropriations Committee and Senate Budget Committee—is to submit
its report to the Senate no later than March 31 of each odd-numbered year, covering activities for its report to the Senate no later than March 31 of each odd-numbered year, covering activities for
the previous Congress.2 the previous Congress.2
As a record of a committee’s legislative and oversight actions, the reports may provide valuable As a record of a committee’s legislative and oversight actions, the reports may provide valuable
information for Members of Congress and their staff interested in learning more about a information for Members of Congress and their staff interested in learning more about a
Member’s new committee assignments or committee activities in certain subject areas. The Member’s new committee assignments or committee activities in certain subject areas. The
reports may also be a useful tool for new committee staff to learn about recent actions. reports may also be a useful tool for new committee staff to learn about recent actions.
More broadly, the activity reports provide a public record of the actions of congressional More broadly, the activity reports provide a public record of the actions of congressional
committees as well as insight into the role of committees in congressional legislative oversight. In committees as well as insight into the role of committees in congressional legislative oversight. In
many cases, they also provide information that is otherwise either not aggregated in one place or many cases, they also provide information that is otherwise either not aggregated in one place or
not available elsewhere. The variations in the reports also illuminate some of the differences in not available elsewhere. The variations in the reports also illuminate some of the differences in
committees, including their internal structure, norms, and operations. committees, including their internal structure, norms, and operations.
This CRS report will address This CRS report will address
• the purpose and history of these reports, including their predecessors; the purpose and history of these reports, including their predecessors;
• required contents of the reports; required contents of the reports;
• House and Senate Rules regarding the filing of reports; House and Senate Rules regarding the filing of reports;
• a discussion of the types of information that may be included; a discussion of the types of information that may be included;
• variations in the organization of the reports among committees; variations in the organization of the reports among committees;
• provisions related to the inclusion of supplemental, minority, additional, or provisions related to the inclusion of supplemental, minority, additional, or
dissenting views; dissenting views;
• additional historical changes to House and Senate Rules regarding the reports, additional historical changes to House and Senate Rules regarding the reports,
including recent changes to the frequency of the reports in the House and the including recent changes to the frequency of the reports in the House and the
1974 revisions to the list of committees required to prepare activity reports; and 1974 revisions to the list of committees required to prepare activity reports; and
• the differences between the committee activity reports and other congressional the differences between the committee activity reports and other congressional
publications, including committee calendars, House and Senate calendars, the publications, including committee calendars, House and Senate calendars, the
Résumé of Congressional Activity, and the House Document Repository at , and the House Document Repository at
docs.house.govdocs.house.gov. Table 1 provides examples of the types of information found in provides examples of the types of information found in
each publication as well as their timeframe for coverage and publication. each publication as well as their timeframe for coverage and publication.
Finally, t Finally, the Appendix lists activity reports issued by House and Senate committees covering lists activity reports issued by House and Senate committees covering
activities of the 110th, 111th, 112th, 113th, 114th, 115th, activities of the 110th, 111th, 112th, 113th, 114th, 115th, 116th, and 117th Congresses. ~~and 116th Congresses.~~

1 The House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence has also filed a report for many, but not all, Congresses. 1 The House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence has also filed a report for many, but not all, Congresses.
2 The Senate Select Committee on Intelligence also regularly files these reports. 2 The Senate Select Committee on Intelligence also regularly files these reports.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

1 1

Guide to Committee Activity Reports: Purpose, Rules, and Contents

Purpose and History
The development of committee activity reports is closely tied to congressional reform and The development of committee activity reports is closely tied to congressional reform and
reorganization efforts more generally. reorganization efforts more generally.
The Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946 reorganized the House and Senate committee system, The Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946 reorganized the House and Senate committee system,
including the number and jurisdiction of congressional committees and their authorities, roles, including the number and jurisdiction of congressional committees and their authorities, roles,
and responsibilities. Section 136 of the act provided for a predecessor to the current committee and responsibilities. Section 136 of the act provided for a predecessor to the current committee
activity report requirement, stating that3 activity report requirement, stating that3
each standing committee of the Senate and the House of Representatives shall exercise each standing committee of the Senate and the House of Representatives shall exercise
continuous watchfulness of the execution by the administrative agencies concerned of any continuous watchfulness of the execution by the administrative agencies concerned of any
laws, the subject matter of which is within the jurisdiction of such committee; and, for that laws, the subject matter of which is within the jurisdiction of such committee; and, for that
purpose, shall study all pertinent reports and data submitted to the Congress by the agencies purpose, shall study all pertinent reports and data submitted to the Congress by the agencies
in the executive branch of the Government. in the executive branch of the Government.
Following the enactment of this law, many committees regularly published reports outlining their Following the enactment of this law, many committees regularly published reports outlining their
activities, either as committee prints or committee reports.4 activities, either as committee prints or committee reports.4
In the late 1960s, Congress considered further revisions to the committee system.5 This internal In the late 1960s, Congress considered further revisions to the committee system.5 This internal
congressional examination culminated in the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1970. Pursuant to congressional examination culminated in the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1970. Pursuant to
this act, the “continuous watchfulness” function of committees was transformed to one providing this act, the “continuous watchfulness” function of committees was transformed to one providing
for “legislative review.”6 The act called for each standing committee of the Senate and the House for “legislative review.”6 The act called for each standing committee of the Senate and the House
of Representatives to7 of Representatives to7
review and study, on a continuing basis, the application, administration, and execution of review and study, on a continuing basis, the application, administration, and execution of
those laws, or parts of laws, the subject matter of which is within the jurisdiction of that those laws, or parts of laws, the subject matter of which is within the jurisdiction of that
committee. committee.
The 1970 act also formalized the requirement for periodic activity reports. A report accompanying The 1970 act also formalized the requirement for periodic activity reports. A report accompanying
the legislation summarized the linkage between the new role for committees and the reporting the legislation summarized the linkage between the new role for committees and the reporting
requirement, stating that8 requirement, stating that8
the intent of this requirement of a report every two years is to provide the House with an the intent of this requirement of a report every two years is to provide the House with an
additional means of appraising the results of the legislation which it has approved and to additional means of appraising the results of the legislation which it has approved and to

3 Ch. 753, August 2, 1946, 60 Stat. 832. This was later incorporated into the House Rules (“Adoption of the Rules for 3 Ch. 753, August 2, 1946, 60 Stat. 832. This was later incorporated into the House Rules (“Adoption of the Rules for
the Eighty-Third Congress,” the Eighty-Third Congress,” Congressional Record, vol. 99 (January 3, 1953), p. 19). , vol. 99 (January 3, 1953), p. 19).
4 See, for example, U.S. Congress, House Committee on Government Operations, 4 See, for example, U.S. Congress, House Committee on Government Operations, Activities Report of the House
Committee on Government Operations, 83rd Congress, committee print, 83rd Cong., December 1954 (Washington: , committee print, 83rd Cong., December 1954 (Washington:
GPO, 1955); and U.S. Congress, Senate Committee on Government Operations, GPO, 1955); and U.S. Congress, Senate Committee on Government Operations, Activities of the Senate Committee on
Government Operations, 83rd Cong., 2nd sess., January 18, 1954, S.Rept. 852 (Washington: GPO, 1954). At least one , 83rd Cong., 2nd sess., January 18, 1954, S.Rept. 852 (Washington: GPO, 1954). At least one
committee issued a compilation of these pre-1970 Reorganization Act reports: U.S. Congress, House Committee on committee issued a compilation of these pre-1970 Reorganization Act reports: U.S. Congress, House Committee on
Interstate and Foreign Commerce, Interstate and Foreign Commerce, Compilation of Activity Reports of the Committee on Interstate and Foreign
Commerce (80th Through 91st Congresses) Together with Historical Data Concerning the Committee, committee print, , committee print,
91st Cong., April 1971 (Washington: GPO, 1971). 91st Cong., April 1971 (Washington: GPO, 1971).
5 S. 355, Section 105, as referred to the House Committee on Rules, March 9, 1967; H.R. 18039, Section 103, as 5 S. 355, Section 105, as referred to the House Committee on Rules, March 9, 1967; H.R. 18039, Section 103, as
referred to the House Committee on Rules, June 20, 1968. For a discussion of reform efforts, see CRS Report referred to the House Committee on Rules, June 20, 1968. For a discussion of reform efforts, see CRS Report
RL32112, RL32112, Reorganization of the Senate: Modern Reform Efforts, by Judy Schneider et al., and CRS Report RL31835, , by Judy Schneider et al., and CRS Report RL31835,
Reorganization of the House of Representatives: Modern Reform Efforts, by Judy Schneider, Betsy Palmer, and , by Judy Schneider, Betsy Palmer, and
Christopher M. Davis. Christopher M. Davis.
6 P.L. 91-510, October 26, 1970, 84 Stat. 1156. 6 P.L. 91-510, October 26, 1970, 84 Stat. 1156.
7 Ibid. 7 Ibid.
8 U.S. Congress, House Committee on Rules, 8 U.S. Congress, House Committee on Rules, Legislative Reorganization Act of 1970, report to accompany H.R. 17654, , report to accompany H.R. 17654,
91st Cong., 2nd sess., June 17, 1970, H.Rept. 91-1215 (Washington: GPO, 1970), p. 74. 91st Cong., 2nd sess., June 17, 1970, H.Rept. 91-1215 (Washington: GPO, 1970), p. 74.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

2 2

link to page 11 link to page 11 link to page 11 link to page 11 Guide to Committee Activity Reports: Purpose, Rules, and Contents

emphasize the importance of the legislative review function of the House standing emphasize the importance of the legislative review function of the House standing
committees. committees.
The requirement for these reports, which appears at 2 U.S.C. §190d, was subsequently The requirement for these reports, which appears at 2 U.S.C. §190d, was subsequently
incorporated into the House and Senate Rules. incorporated into the House and Senate Rules.
Required Contents of the Reports
House Rules for the House Rules for the ~~117th~~118th Congress state that the committee activity reports are to include9 Congress state that the committee activity reports are to include9
• separate sections summarizing the committee’s legislative and oversight separate sections summarizing the committee’s legislative and oversight
activities activities conducted pursuant to House Rule X and House Rule XI;10 conducted pursuant to House Rule X and House Rule XI;10
• a summary of the committee’s oversight plans, which are required by House Rule a summary of the committee’s oversight plans, which are required by House Rule
X, clause 2(d);11 X, clause 2(d);11
• a summary of the actions taken and recommendations made with respect to these a summary of the actions taken and recommendations made with respect to these
oversight plans; oversight plans;
• a summary of any additional oversight activities undertaken by a committee and a summary of any additional oversight activities undertaken by a committee and
any recommendations made or related actions; and any recommendations made or related actions; and

9 House Rule XI, clause 1(d). The Rules related to activity reports have been periodically revised. In addition to some 9 House Rule XI, clause 1(d). The Rules related to activity reports have been periodically revised. In addition to some
of the changes described below, according to the of the changes described below, according to the House Manual (H.Doc. 115-177, §791), “Clerical and stylistic (H.Doc. 115-177, §791), “Clerical and stylistic
changes were effected when the House recodified its rules in the 106th Congress (H.Res. 5, January 6, 1999, p. 47),” changes were effected when the House recodified its rules in the 106th Congress (H.Res. 5, January 6, 1999, p. 47),”
and “in the 112th Congress, the paragraph was rewritten entirely to clarify late-session filing ... (sec. 2(e)(13), H.Res. 5, and “in the 112th Congress, the paragraph was rewritten entirely to clarify late-session filing ... (sec. 2(e)(13), H.Res. 5,
January 5, 2011, p. 80).” For rules changes affecting frequency, see January 5, 2011, p. 80).” For rules changes affecting frequency, see “Additional Rules Changes Affecting Activity
Reports.”
10 This requirement for separate sections was first adopted in the 104th Congress. 10 This requirement for separate sections was first adopted in the 104th Congress.
11 The requirement that committees adopt an oversight plan was first included in the rules for the 104th Congress. 11 The requirement that committees adopt an oversight plan was first included in the rules for the 104th Congress.
According to the “Section-by-Section Analysis of House Rules Resolution” inserted into the According to the “Section-by-Section Analysis of House Rules Resolution” inserted into the Congressional Record, ,
“the intent of [the oversight reform] section [is] to ensure that committees make a more concerted, coordinated and “the intent of [the oversight reform] section [is] to ensure that committees make a more concerted, coordinated and
conscientious effort to develop meaningful oversight plans at the beginning of each Congress and to follow-through on conscientious effort to develop meaningful oversight plans at the beginning of each Congress and to follow-through on
their implementation, with a view to examining the full range of the laws under their jurisdiction over a period of five their implementation, with a view to examining the full range of the laws under their jurisdiction over a period of five
Congresses” (Congresses” (Congressional Record, January 4, 1995,January 4, 1995, p. H35). p. H35).
The House Rules adopted for the 115th Congress (H.Res. 5) added references to newly required authorization plans, in The House Rules adopted for the 115th Congress (H.Res. 5) added references to newly required authorization plans, in
addition to previously required oversight plans. According to a section-by-section analysis of the rules change posted addition to previously required oversight plans. According to a section-by-section analysis of the rules change posted
by the House Rules Committee and inserted into the by the House Rules Committee and inserted into the Congressional Record: :
The plan must include a list of unauthorized programs and agencies within their jurisdiction that The plan must include a list of unauthorized programs and agencies within their jurisdiction that
have received funding in the prior fiscal year, or in the case of a permanent authorization, has not have received funding in the prior fiscal year, or in the case of a permanent authorization, has not
received a comprehensive review by the committee in the prior three Congresses. The subsection received a comprehensive review by the committee in the prior three Congresses. The subsection
requires committees to describe each program or agency that is intended to be authorized in the requires committees to describe each program or agency that is intended to be authorized in the
current Congress or next Congress, and a description of oversight to support reauthorization in the current Congress or next Congress, and a description of oversight to support reauthorization in the
current Congress. The subsection also requires recommendations, if any, for moving such programs current Congress. The subsection also requires recommendations, if any, for moving such programs
or agencies from mandatory to discretionary funding (or agencies from mandatory to discretionary funding (Congressional Record, January 3, 2017, p. January 3, 2017, p.
H12). H12).
The rules for the 116th Congress (H.Res. 6) restored the original requirement for oversight plans and deleted references The rules for the 116th Congress (H.Res. 6) restored the original requirement for oversight plans and deleted references
to authorization plans. The submission process for oversight plans, and related deadlines, was also changed at this time. to authorization plans. The submission process for oversight plans, and related deadlines, was also changed at this time.
A technical amendment to the House Rules pertaining to activity reports deleted references to the authorization plans A technical amendment to the House Rules pertaining to activity reports deleted references to the authorization plans
(House Rule XI, clause 1(d)(2)(B) and clause 1(d)(2)(C)). (House Rule XI, clause 1(d)(2)(B) and clause 1(d)(2)(C)).
The plans are compiled as a House report. For example, U.S. Congress, House Committee on Oversight and Reform, The plans are compiled as a House report. For example, U.S. Congress, House Committee on Oversight and Reform,
Authorization and Oversight Plan for all House Committees, , ~~117th~~118th Cong., 1st sess., April Cong., 1st sess., April ~~15, 2021~~17, 2023, H.Rept. , H.Rept. ~~117-17~~118-36
(Washington: GPO, (Washington: GPO, ~~2021~~2023). ).
The Committee on Appropriations, the Committee on Ethics, and the Committee on Rules are exempt from the The Committee on Appropriations, the Committee on Ethics, and the Committee on Rules are exempt from the
requirement to adopt oversight plans. requirement to adopt oversight plans.

Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

3 3

Guide to Committee Activity Reports: Purpose, Rules, and Contents

• a delineation of any hearings held on the topics of waste, fraud, abuse, or a delineation of any hearings held on the topics of waste, fraud, abuse, or
mismanagement. Pursuant to clause 2 of House Rule XI,12 committees are mismanagement. Pursuant to clause 2 of House Rule XI,12 committees are
required “to hold at least one hearing during each 120-day period” on these required “to hold at least one hearing during each 120-day period” on these
topics. The hearings are to focus in particular on reports from inspectors general topics. The hearings are to focus in particular on reports from inspectors general
or the Comptroller General of the United States and programs or operations that or the Comptroller General of the United States and programs or operations that
are considered “high-risk.”13 are considered “high-risk.”13
Senate Rules do not specifically address required contents, other than to say that the reports are to Senate Rules do not specifically address required contents, other than to say that the reports are to
cover activities carried out under Senate Rule XXVI(8)(a).14 This paragraph states that,15 cover activities carried out under Senate Rule XXVI(8)(a).14 This paragraph states that,15
(a) In order to assist the Senate in— (a) In order to assist the Senate in—
(1) its analysis, appraisal, and evaluation of the application, administration, and (1) its analysis, appraisal, and evaluation of the application, administration, and
execution of the laws enacted by the Congress, and execution of the laws enacted by the Congress, and
(2) its formulation, consideration, and enactment of such modifications of or changes (2) its formulation, consideration, and enactment of such modifications of or changes
in those laws, and of such additional legislation, as may be necessary or appropriate, in those laws, and of such additional legislation, as may be necessary or appropriate,
each standing committee (except the Committees on Appropriations and the Budget), each standing committee (except the Committees on Appropriations and the Budget),
shall review and study, on a continuing basis the application, administration, and shall review and study, on a continuing basis the application, administration, and
execution of those laws, or parts of laws, the subject matter of which is within the execution of those laws, or parts of laws, the subject matter of which is within the
legislative jurisdiction of that committee.... legislative jurisdiction of that committee....
Filing the Reports
Both the House and Senate reports cover an entire Congress and are to be filed each odd-Both the House and Senate reports cover an entire Congress and are to be filed each odd-
numbered year. numbered year.
Pursuant to House Rule XI, clause 1(d)(1), reports are to be filed by January 2.16 A House chair Pursuant to House Rule XI, clause 1(d)(1), reports are to be filed by January 2.16 A House chair
may file the report after the sine die adjournment17 or after December 15 of an even-numbered may file the report after the sine die adjournment17 or after December 15 of an even-numbered
year, whichever occurs first.18 The report is filed with the Clerk of the House. House Rules do not year, whichever occurs first.18 The report is filed with the Clerk of the House. House Rules do not

12 The requirement for hearings related to waste, fraud, abuse, or mismanagement was adopted during the 111th 12 The requirement for hearings related to waste, fraud, abuse, or mismanagement was adopted during the 111th
Congress when the House agreed to H.Res. 40 on January 14, 2009. The resolution also amended clause 1 of House Congress when the House agreed to H.Res. 40 on January 14, 2009. The resolution also amended clause 1 of House
Rule XI to require that the activity reports “delineate any hearings held pursuant to” this new language (clauses 2(n), Rule XI to require that the activity reports “delineate any hearings held pursuant to” this new language (clauses 2(n),
(o), and (p)). This language was incorporated in the House Rules in subsequent Congresses. (o), and (p)). This language was incorporated in the House Rules in subsequent Congresses.
13 For example, the Government Accountability Office maintains a “High Risk List” at http://www.gao.gov/highrisk/ 13 For example, the Government Accountability Office maintains a “High Risk List” at http://www.gao.gov/highrisk/
overview. overview.
14 Senate Rule XXVI, paragraph 8(b). 14 Senate Rule XXVI, paragraph 8(b).
15 U.S. Congress, Senate, 15 U.S. Congress, Senate, Standing Rules of the Senate, Revised to January 24, 2013, 113th Cong., November 4, 2013, , Revised to January 24, 2013, 113th Cong., November 4, 2013,
S.Doc. 113-18 (Washington: GPO, 2013), p. 35. Available at https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CDOC-113sdoc18/S.Doc. 113-18 (Washington: GPO, 2013), p. 35. Available at https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CDOC-113sdoc18/
pdf/CDOC-113sdoc18.pdf. pdf/CDOC-113sdoc18.pdf.
16 House activity reports, therefore, are often numerically among the last House reports filed each Congress. The Senate 16 House activity reports, therefore, are often numerically among the last House reports filed each Congress. The Senate
activity reports, conversely, are numerically often—but not always—among the earlier Senate reports filed each activity reports, conversely, are numerically often—but not always—among the earlier Senate reports filed each
Congress. As part of a congressional reform effort in 1974, the House Select Committee on Committees considered the Congress. As part of a congressional reform effort in 1974, the House Select Committee on Committees considered the
requirement that committees file the activity reports by January 2. One Member suggested that since committee requirement that committees file the activity reports by January 2. One Member suggested that since committee
activities could continue through that day (pursuant to the 20th Amendment to the Constitution, ratified January 23, activities could continue through that day (pursuant to the 20th Amendment to the Constitution, ratified January 23,
1933, the terms of Senators and Representatives begin at noon on the 3rd day of January), the committees could be 1933, the terms of Senators and Representatives begin at noon on the 3rd day of January), the committees could be
provided with additional time to file their reports. Committee Chairman Richard Bolling and others, however, reminded provided with additional time to file their reports. Committee Chairman Richard Bolling and others, however, reminded
their colleagues that “We are not a continuing body,” and that imposing such a requirement on future Congresses may their colleagues that “We are not a continuing body,” and that imposing such a requirement on future Congresses may
be problematic. The January 2 deadline remained unchanged (U.S. Congress, House Select Committee on Committees, be problematic. The January 2 deadline remained unchanged (U.S. Congress, House Select Committee on Committees,
Committee Reform Amendments of 1974, 93rd Cong., 2nd sess. (Washington: GPO, 1974), p. 618). , 93rd Cong., 2nd sess. (Washington: GPO, 1974), p. 618).
17 A sine die adjournment is “an adjournment that ends an annual session.” For additional information, see CRS Report 17 A sine die adjournment is “an adjournment that ends an annual session.” For additional information, see CRS Report
R42977, R42977, Sessions, Adjournments, and Recesses of Congress, by , by ~~Richard S. Beth and~~ Valerie Heitshusen. Valerie Heitshusen.
18 The rules adopted for the 112th Congress (H.Res. 5, January 5, 2011) added the reference to December 15 of an even- 18 The rules adopted for the 112th Congress (H.Res. 5, January 5, 2011) added the reference to December 15 of an even-
numbered year. The effect is to allow the report to be filed before sine die adjournment when the House continues to numbered year. The effect is to allow the report to be filed before sine die adjournment when the House continues to
meet past December 15. Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

4 4

Guide to Committee Activity Reports: Purpose, Rules, and Contents

require committee approval of the report, although a copy of the report must be available to each require committee approval of the report, although a copy of the report must be available to each
committee member for at least seven calendar days.19 House committee activity reports generally committee member for at least seven calendar days.19 House committee activity reports generally
include a letter of transmittal from the chair of the committee to the Clerk. One committee—the include a letter of transmittal from the chair of the committee to the Clerk. One committee—the
House Ethics Committee, which is comprised of an equal number of Members from the majority House Ethics Committee, which is comprised of an equal number of Members from the majority
and minority party pursuant to House Rule X—generally has included a transmittal letter signed and minority party pursuant to House Rule X—generally has included a transmittal letter signed
by both the chair and ranking minority member. A few committees have included in their by both the chair and ranking minority member. A few committees have included in their
transmittal letters a disclaimer indicating the “document is intended as a general reference tool, transmittal letters a disclaimer indicating the “document is intended as a general reference tool,
and not as a substitute for the hearing records, reports, and other committee files.”20 and not as a substitute for the hearing records, reports, and other committee files.”20
Pursuant to Senate Rule XXVI, paragraph 8(b), reports are to be filed by March 31. As stated Pursuant to Senate Rule XXVI, paragraph 8(b), reports are to be filed by March 31. As stated
above, the Senate Appropriations Committee and Senate Budget Committee are exempt from this above, the Senate Appropriations Committee and Senate Budget Committee are exempt from this
requirement.21 In addition to the other standing committees, the Senate Select Committee on requirement.21 In addition to the other standing committees, the Senate Select Committee on
Intelligence also regularly files these reports. Committees sometimes have filed a report late or Intelligence also regularly files these reports. Committees sometimes have filed a report late or
not at all, and it is not clear how the Senate Rule requiring activity reports could be enforced by not at all, and it is not clear how the Senate Rule requiring activity reports could be enforced by
the full Senate. the full Senate.
Additionally, House and Senate committees are required to adopt their own rules. While these Additionally, House and Senate committees are required to adopt their own rules. While these
rules cannot conflict with the chamber rules, the committee rules may further address the filing rules cannot conflict with the chamber rules, the committee rules may further address the filing
process for activity reports.22 process for activity reports.22
Additional Contents and Variations
The activity reports are as varied as the committees that produce them. Across committees, they The activity reports are as varied as the committees that produce them. Across committees, they
may differ in organization, level of detail, and information covered. These variations also appear may differ in organization, level of detail, and information covered. These variations also appear
across time, as individual chairs may influence the priorities of their committees. Consequently, across time, as individual chairs may influence the priorities of their committees. Consequently,
comparisons across committees or across time using information only found in these reports may comparisons across committees or across time using information only found in these reports may
be challenging. be challenging.
Organization
Some reports are organized by topic, while others are organized by full committee and Some reports are organized by topic, while others are organized by full committee and
subcommittee activities. Additional organizational or administrative variations in activity reports subcommittee activities. Additional organizational or administrative variations in activity reports
include whether or not they contain include whether or not they contain
• an overview or history of the committee, an overview or history of the committee,

~~meet past December 15.~~
• a foreword from the committee chair, 19 This clause was added by H.Res. 5, January 7, 1997, p. 121. One committee, the House Committee on Education and 19 This clause was added by H.Res. 5, January 7, 1997, p. 121. One committee, the House Committee on Education and
Labor, has traditionally indicated in the transmittal letter the date the report was circulated to Members and whether or Labor, has traditionally indicated in the transmittal letter the date the report was circulated to Members and whether or
not minority views were received. For example, see H.Rept. 114-904. Sometimes, a committee has formally resolved to not minority views were received. For example, see H.Rept. 114-904. Sometimes, a committee has formally resolved to
approve the activity report during a business meeting (for example, House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, December approve the activity report during a business meeting (for example, House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, December
11, 2014, business meeting, http://docs.house.gov/Committee/Calendar/ByEvent.aspx?EventID=102794). 11, 2014, business meeting, http://docs.house.gov/Committee/Calendar/ByEvent.aspx?EventID=102794).
20 For example, see the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure report for the 114th Congress (H.Rept. 20 For example, see the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure report for the 114th Congress (H.Rept.
114-899) and the House Committee on Science report for the 105th Congress (H.Rept. 105-847). 114-899) and the House Committee on Science report for the 105th Congress (H.Rept. 105-847).
21 The exception for the Senate Appropriations Committee was included in the 1970 act, with the Senate Budget 21 The exception for the Senate Appropriations Committee was included in the 1970 act, with the Senate Budget
Committee added to this paragraph when the committee was established with the enactment of the Congressional Committee added to this paragraph when the committee was established with the enactment of the Congressional
Budget and Impoundment Act of 1974 (P.L. 93-344). The Senate Budget Committee, however, did file a report for the Budget and Impoundment Act of 1974 (P.L. 93-344). The Senate Budget Committee, however, did file a report for the
113th Congress (S.Rept. 114-31). 113th Congress (S.Rept. 114-31).
22 For House committee rules, see U.S. Congress, House Committee on Rules, 22 For House committee rules, see U.S. Congress, House Committee on Rules, Rules Adopted by the Committees of the
House of Representatives, committee print, , committee print, ~~116th~~117th Cong., 1st sess., RCP Cong., 1st sess., RCP ~~116-25-35~~117-24 (Washington: GPO, (Washington: GPO, ~~2019~~2022). For ). For
Senate committee rules, see U.S. Congress, Senate Committee on Rules and Administration, Senate committee rules, see U.S. Congress, Senate Committee on Rules and Administration, Authority and Rules of
Senate Committees, 2021-2022, 117th Cong., 1st sess., S.Doc. 117-6 (Washington: GPO, 2021). , 117th Cong., 1st sess., S.Doc. 117-6 (Washington: GPO, 2021).
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

5 5

Guide to Committee Activity Reports: Purpose, Rules, and Contents

~~ a foreword from the committee chair,~~
• a table of contents, a table of contents,
• information on subcommittee jurisdictions and memberships, and information on subcommittee jurisdictions and memberships, and
• listings of names and titles of senior or other staff. listings of names and titles of senior or other staff.
Inclusion of Supplemental, Minority, Additional, or
Dissenting Views
Pursuant to House Rules, House committee activity reports are to include “any supplemental, Pursuant to House Rules, House committee activity reports are to include “any supplemental,
minority, additional, or dissenting views submitted by a member of the committee.”23 The minority, additional, or dissenting views submitted by a member of the committee.”23 The
frequency with which these additional views appear varies greatly across committees. For frequency with which these additional views appear varies greatly across committees. For
example, since the 104th Congress, activity reports from the Committee on Rules, on Education example, since the 104th Congress, activity reports from the Committee on Rules, on Education
and Labor, and on House Administration frequently contained additional views. Conversely, a and Labor, and on House Administration frequently contained additional views. Conversely, a
number of committees—for example, the Committees on Appropriations, Intelligence, Ethics, number of committees—for example, the Committees on Appropriations, Intelligence, Ethics,
Armed Services, and Small Business—rarely, if ever, contained these views during the same Armed Services, and Small Business—rarely, if ever, contained these views during the same
period. The length of additional views has also varied, from a few sentences to more than 50 period. The length of additional views has also varied, from a few sentences to more than 50
pages.24 pages.24
Senate Rules do not address the inclusion of additional views in activity reports. Their inclusion Senate Rules do not address the inclusion of additional views in activity reports. Their inclusion
appears to be infrequent.25 appears to be infrequent.25
Types of Information Included and Presentation
Aside from the required contents addressed in the House and Senate Rules, broad discretion is Aside from the required contents addressed in the House and Senate Rules, broad discretion is
given to each committee in preparing its own report. given to each committee in preparing its own report.
The committee activity reports vary in their level of detail in describing oversight activities and The committee activity reports vary in their level of detail in describing oversight activities and
hearings. Some committees provide lists of these actions, while others provide lengthy hearings. Some committees provide lists of these actions, while others provide lengthy
descriptions, analysis, and appendices. Relatedly, while many provide lists of documents, descriptions, analysis, and appendices. Relatedly, while many provide lists of documents,
correspondence, or publications, some contain full-text reproductions. These variations are correspondence, or publications, some contain full-text reproductions. These variations are
evident in the varying lengths of these reports—for example, House activity reports for the 114th evident in the varying lengths of these reports—for example, House activity reports for the 114th
Congress ranged in length from 22 pages to 485 pages; Senate activity reports ranged from 20 Congress ranged in length from 22 pages to 485 pages; Senate activity reports ranged from 20
pages to 130 pages. pages to 130 pages.
The activity reports provide an overview of a variety of issues within the committee’s The activity reports provide an overview of a variety of issues within the committee’s
jurisdiction. They may also address actions taken and work produced by the individual jurisdiction. They may also address actions taken and work produced by the individual
committees, including, for example,26 committees, including, for example,26
• committee publications, including information on published and unpublished , including information on published and unpublished
hearings; hearings;
• public statements and press releases; ;

• “Dear Colleague” letters issued by the committee chair; 23 A prior version of this clause, which addressed “supplemental, minority, or additional” views, was expanded to 23 A prior version of this clause, which addressed “supplemental, minority, or additional” views, was expanded to
include “dissenting” views in the 114th Congress (H.Res. 5, 114th Congress). include “dissenting” views in the 114th Congress (H.Res. 5, 114th Congress).
24 For example, see U.S. Congress, House Committee on Homeland Security, 24 For example, see U.S. Congress, House Committee on Homeland Security, Report on the Legislative and Oversight
Activities, 112th Cong., 2nd sess., December 27, 2012, H.Rept. 112-730 (Washington: GPO, 2012), pp. 376-426. , 112th Cong., 2nd sess., December 27, 2012, H.Rept. 112-730 (Washington: GPO, 2012), pp. 376-426.
25 The following reports, however, did include additional views: S.Rept. 114-178, from the Senate Committee on 25 The following reports, however, did include additional views: S.Rept. 114-178, from the Senate Committee on
Foreign Relations; S.Rept. 116-20, S.Rept. 114-8 and S.Rept. 113-7, from the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence; Foreign Relations; S.Rept. 116-20, S.Rept. 114-8 and S.Rept. 113-7, from the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence;
and S.Rept. 112-6, from the Senate Committee on Small Business. and S.Rept. 112-6, from the Senate Committee on Small Business.
26 List compiled from CRS survey of activity reports issued since the 104th Congress. 26 List compiled from CRS survey of activity reports issued since the 104th Congress.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

6 6

Guide to Committee Activity Reports: Purpose, Rules, and Contents

~~ “Dear Colleague” letters issued by the committee chair;~~
• committee resolutions. The use of committee resolutions may vary by . The use of committee resolutions may vary by
committee, but they may include internal committee agreements concerning the committee, but they may include internal committee agreements concerning the
adoption of committee rules, oversight plans, or the committee’s organization. adoption of committee rules, oversight plans, or the committee’s organization.
Committees may also consider resolutions that are specific to their jurisdictional Committees may also consider resolutions that are specific to their jurisdictional
responsibilities;27 responsibilities;27
• correspondence to or from executive branch or other officials, including or other officials, including
related presidential messages and proclamations; related presidential messages and proclamations;
• a copy or summary of the committee’s “ a copy or summary of the committee’s “views and estimates,” which addresses ,” which addresses
budgetary matters within its jurisdiction.28 Some committees also include budgetary matters within its jurisdiction.28 Some committees also include
minority comments on the “views and estimates”; minority comments on the “views and estimates”;
• memoranda clarifying jurisdictional agreements between committees;29 memoranda clarifying jurisdictional agreements between committees;29
• information on Member or staff travel, including locations visited, issues , including locations visited, issues
investigated, or conferences or other events attended; investigated, or conferences or other events attended;
• conference committee appointments; conference committee appointments;
• approval by the committee of approval by the committee of consultant contracts; ;
• information on information on committee witnesses, arranged by hearing or by category (e.g., , arranged by hearing or by category (e.g.,
congressional, executive branch, nongovernmental, and foreign); congressional, executive branch, nongovernmental, and foreign);
• activities specific to the Senate, for Senate committees (i.e., activities specific to the Senate, for Senate committees (i.e., consideration of
treaties and nominations); );
• activities specific to roles and responsibilities of certain committees or
pursuant to various laws (for example, advice and guidance from the House or (for example, advice and guidance from the House or
Senate Committee on Ethics; information on waivers of House Rules, the Budget Senate Committee on Ethics; information on waivers of House Rules, the Budget
Act, or the Unfunded Mandate Reform Act by the House Committee on Rules;30 Act, or the Unfunded Mandate Reform Act by the House Committee on Rules;30

and participation in international conferences and “Committee-Hosted Dignitary Meetings” by the House Committee on Foreign Affairs); • petitions and memorials submitted to the committee; 27 For example, some Committee on House Administration reports include references to resolutions adopted approving 27 For example, some Committee on House Administration reports include references to resolutions adopted approving
franked mail allowances for the standing and select committees, allocating funding for certain committees from the franked mail allowances for the standing and select committees, allocating funding for certain committees from the
Reserve Fund, or amending internal House regulations governing, for example, shared employees, the student loan Reserve Fund, or amending internal House regulations governing, for example, shared employees, the student loan
repayment program, or revising the Members’ Congressional Handbook. In addition, for example, a House Committee repayment program, or revising the Members’ Congressional Handbook. In addition, for example, a House Committee
on Transportation and Infrastructure report lists “Committee Resolutions (Authorizing the General Services on Transportation and Infrastructure report lists “Committee Resolutions (Authorizing the General Services
Administration Capital Investment and Leasing Program)” (H.Rept. 114-899), while a Senate Committee on Administration Capital Investment and Leasing Program)” (H.Rept. 114-899), while a Senate Committee on
Environment and Public Works report lists “committee resolutions for public buildings” (S.Rept. 107-100). The House Environment and Public Works report lists “committee resolutions for public buildings” (S.Rept. 107-100). The House
Committee on Armed Services and the Committee on Homeland Security have used committee resolutions to adopt Committee on Armed Services and the Committee on Homeland Security have used committee resolutions to adopt
committee rules and appoint staff (U.S. Congress, House Committee on Armed Services, committee rules and appoint staff (U.S. Congress, House Committee on Armed Services, Organizational Meeting for
the 115th Congress, 115th Cong., 1st sess., January 12, 2017 (Washington: GPO, 2017); and H.Rept. 114-907). The , 115th Cong., 1st sess., January 12, 2017 (Washington: GPO, 2017); and H.Rept. 114-907). The
Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship report for the 115th Congress also listed “Sense of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship report for the 115th Congress also listed “Sense of the
Committee” resolutions (S.Rept. 115-33). Committee” resolutions (S.Rept. 115-33).
28 These are required pursuant to Section 310(d) of the Congressional Budget Act. P.L. 93-944, 88 Stat. 307, July 12, 28 These are required pursuant to Section 310(d) of the Congressional Budget Act. P.L. 93-944, 88 Stat. 307, July 12,
1974; House Rule X, clause 4(f)(1) and 11(c)(3). The “views and estimates” are to be submitted to the respective 1974; House Rule X, clause 4(f)(1) and 11(c)(3). The “views and estimates” are to be submitted to the respective
budget committees no later than six weeks after the President’s budget is submitted or by a date requested by the budget committees no later than six weeks after the President’s budget is submitted or by a date requested by the
Committee on the Budget. In addition to potential references in the activity reports, the “views and estimates” often are Committee on the Budget. In addition to potential references in the activity reports, the “views and estimates” often are
printed in the committee report accompanying the budget resolution or compiled as a separate committee print. For printed in the committee report accompanying the budget resolution or compiled as a separate committee print. For
additional information, see CRS Report 98-512, additional information, see CRS Report 98-512, Formulation and Content of the Budget Resolution, by Bill Heniff Jr. , by Bill Heniff Jr.
29 For example, some of the House Financial Services Committee activity reports provide information on a 29 For example, some of the House Financial Services Committee activity reports provide information on a
memorandum of understanding between the chairmen of the Committee on Financial Services and the Committee on memorandum of understanding between the chairmen of the Committee on Financial Services and the Committee on
Energy and Commerce (for example, H.Rept. 112-355). Energy and Commerce (for example, H.Rept. 112-355).
30 The reporting requirement for waived points of order under the Unfunded Mandate Reform Act was included in P.L. 30 The reporting requirement for waived points of order under the Unfunded Mandate Reform Act was included in P.L.
104-4 (March 22, 1995, 109 Stat. 63; 2 U.S.C. 1514). 104-4 (March 22, 1995, 109 Stat. 63; 2 U.S.C. 1514).
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

7 7

Guide to Committee Activity Reports: Purpose, Rules, and Contents

~~and participation in international conferences and “Committee-Hosted Dignitary~~
~~Meetings” by the House Committee on Foreign Affairs);~~
~~ petitions and memorials submitted to the committee;~~
• investigations conducted by the committee; conducted by the committee;
• support provided by the Government Accountability Office (GAO), including (GAO), including
reports requested or issued and related high-risk areas identified; reports requested or issued and related high-risk areas identified;
• special studies or task forces; ;
• information on information on examinations into “waste, fraud, abuse, and
mismanagement”;31 ”;31
• information on information on regulatory review efforts; and ; and
• publications prepared separately by the majority or minority members or staff of prepared separately by the majority or minority members or staff of
the committee.32 the committee.32
Some reports also include tabular information and statistical summaries of committee meetings, Some reports also include tabular information and statistical summaries of committee meetings,
including the number of days or pages of hearings, and the number of field hearings, joint including the number of days or pages of hearings, and the number of field hearings, joint
hearings, closed hearings, business meetings, markup sessions, or witnesses. hearings, closed hearings, business meetings, markup sessions, or witnesses.
Others include tables providing information on legislation considered by the committee, including Others include tables providing information on legislation considered by the committee, including
the total number of bills and resolutions referred to the committee, reported, and passed by the the total number of bills and resolutions referred to the committee, reported, and passed by the
chamber, or enacted into law. chamber, or enacted into law.
Additional Rules Changes Affecting Activity
Reports
Changes to Frequency in the House of Representatives: 112th-114th
Congresses
Generally, since 1970, one committee activity report has been required each Congress. Generally, since 1970, one committee activity report has been required each Congress.
The House has experimented with increasing the frequency of these reports, before reverting to The House has experimented with increasing the frequency of these reports, before reverting to
the prior practice of one report, issued at the end of each Congress. More specifically, the House the prior practice of one report, issued at the end of each Congress. More specifically, the House
Rules have provided for Rules have provided for
• one report per Congress (92nd –111th Congresses); one report per Congress (92nd –111th Congresses);
• biannual reports, totaling four reports each Congress (112th Congress); biannual reports, totaling four reports each Congress (112th Congress);
• annual reports, totaling two reports each Congress (113th Congress); and annual reports, totaling two reports each Congress (113th Congress); and
• one report per Congress (114th and subsequent Congresses).33 one report per Congress (114th and subsequent Congresses).33

31 As stated above, pursuant to clause 2 of House Rule XI, House committees are required “to hold at least one hearing 31 As stated above, pursuant to clause 2 of House Rule XI, House committees are required “to hold at least one hearing
during each 120-day period” on these topics. The hearings are to focus in particular on reports from inspectors general during each 120-day period” on these topics. The hearings are to focus in particular on reports from inspectors general
or the Comptroller General of the United States and programs or operations that are considered “high-risk.” or the Comptroller General of the United States and programs or operations that are considered “high-risk.”
32 For example, the House Budget Committee regularly lists separate majority and minority caucus publications. 32 For example, the House Budget Committee regularly lists separate majority and minority caucus publications.
33 H.Res. 5, January 5, 2011, Section 2(e)(13); H.Res. 5, January 3, 2013, Section 2(a); H.Res. 5, January 6, 2015, 33 H.Res. 5, January 5, 2011, Section 2(e)(13); H.Res. 5, January 3, 2013, Section 2(a); H.Res. 5, January 6, 2015,
Section 2(a)(4). According to the “Section-By-Section Analysis” of the House Rules changes for the 112th Congress Section 2(a)(4). According to the “Section-By-Section Analysis” of the House Rules changes for the 112th Congress
inserted into the inserted into the Congressional Record, the provision was “intended to provide the House with more frequent updates , the provision was “intended to provide the House with more frequent updates
regarding the oversight and legislative activities of the committees” (regarding the oversight and legislative activities of the committees” (Congressional Record, January 5, 2011, p. H14). , January 5, 2011, p. H14).
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

8 8

link to page 13 link to page 13 Guide to Committee Activity Reports: Purpose, Rules, and Contents

1974 Revisions to Committees Required to Prepare Activity Reports
Pursuant to House Rule XI, the requirement for activity reports has applied to all House Pursuant to House Rule XI, the requirement for activity reports has applied to all House
committees since the 94th Congress (1975-1976).34 From the enactment of the Legislative committees since the 94th Congress (1975-1976).34 From the enactment of the Legislative
Reorganization Act of 1970 until the 94th Congress, the House Committees on Appropriations, Reorganization Act of 1970 until the 94th Congress, the House Committees on Appropriations,
House Administration, Rules, Ethics (formerly Standards of Official Conduct), and Budget (upon House Administration, Rules, Ethics (formerly Standards of Official Conduct), and Budget (upon
its establishment in 1974)35 were exempt from the requirement that committees file activity its establishment in 1974)35 were exempt from the requirement that committees file activity
reports. These committees had originally been exempted from the 1970 act, according to the reports. These committees had originally been exempted from the 1970 act, according to the
accompanying House report, “because ... their respective areas of jurisdiction do not embrace accompanying House report, “because ... their respective areas of jurisdiction do not embrace
legislative areas of the type contemplated by the legislative review provisions of the revised legislative areas of the type contemplated by the legislative review provisions of the revised
clause ... The inclusion of these committees within the purview of that clause would, therefore, be clause ... The inclusion of these committees within the purview of that clause would, therefore, be
meaningless.”36 The exception was removed with the adoption of H.Res. 988 (93rd Congress), the meaningless.”36 The exception was removed with the adoption of H.Res. 988 (93rd Congress), the
Committee Reform Amendments of 1974, on October 8, 1974. Committee Reform Amendments of 1974, on October 8, 1974.
An exemption from the reporting requirement for the Senate Budget Committee was added to An exemption from the reporting requirement for the Senate Budget Committee was added to
Senate Rule XXVI, paragraph 8(b), upon the creation of the committee in 1974.37 Senate Rule XXVI, paragraph 8(b), upon the creation of the committee in 1974.37
Committee Activity Reports Compared to Other
Congressional Publications
In addition to the committee activity reports, the House and Senate each produce a number of In addition to the committee activity reports, the House and Senate each produce a number of
other publications that document their activities. These publications vary in their frequency, other publications that document their activities. These publications vary in their frequency,
content, and scope (e.g., coverage of the entire chamber or only certain committees), and in how content, and scope (e.g., coverage of the entire chamber or only certain committees), and in how
they are issued (e.g., as committee reports, committee documents, House or Senate documents, they are issued (e.g., as committee reports, committee documents, House or Senate documents,
printing in the printing in the Congressional Record, or online-only availability), or online-only availability). Table 1 provides a brief provides a brief
comparison of selected publications. comparison of selected publications.
The committee activity reports, compared to the other publications, may be more likely to provide The committee activity reports, compared to the other publications, may be more likely to provide
discussion, analysis, or statistics. They also aggregate selected types of information about a discussion, analysis, or statistics. They also aggregate selected types of information about a
committee in one place. They also differ from some of the other publications since they provide a committee in one place. They also differ from some of the other publications since they provide a
retrospective accounting of the actions taken by a particular committee, rather than information retrospective accounting of the actions taken by a particular committee, rather than information
on prospective, planned, or ongoing actions. on prospective, planned, or ongoing actions.

34 U.S. Congress, House, 34 U.S. Congress, House, Constitution, Jefferson’s Manual, and Rules of the House of Representatives, , ~~113th~~116th Cong., 2nd Cong., 2nd
sess., H.Doc. sess., H.Doc. ~~113-181~~116-177 (Washington: GPO, (Washington: GPO, ~~2015), pp. 549-551~~2021), §790. .
35 The House and Senate Budget Committees were established with the enactment of the Congressional Budget and 35 The House and Senate Budget Committees were established with the enactment of the Congressional Budget and
Impoundment Act of 1974, P.L. 93-344, July 12, 1974, 88 Stat. 301. Impoundment Act of 1974, P.L. 93-344, July 12, 1974, 88 Stat. 301.
36 U.S. Congress, House Committee on Rules, 36 U.S. Congress, House Committee on Rules, Legislative Reorganization Act of 1970, report on H.R. 17654, 91st , report on H.R. 17654, 91st
Cong., 2nd sess., June 17, 1970, H.Rept. 91-1215 (Washington: GPO, 1970), p. 74. See also 2 U.S.C. §190d(c). Cong., 2nd sess., June 17, 1970, H.Rept. 91-1215 (Washington: GPO, 1970), p. 74. See also 2 U.S.C. §190d(c).
37 P.L. 93-344, July 12, 1974, 88 Stat. 331. 37 P.L. 93-344, July 12, 1974, 88 Stat. 331.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

9 9

link to page 14 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 14 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15
Table 1. Committee Activity Reports and Other Selected Congressional Publications: Frequency, Content, Rules, and Other
Information
Other Information
Title or Description of
Frequency of
Prepared or
Rules,
(Publication Type
Publication
Publication
Maintained by
Examples of Information Included
If Any
or Link)
House and Senate
Once per Congress, Once per Congress,
Individual committees Individual committees
Committee rules, membership, actions, Committee rules, membership, actions,
Required by Required by
Issued as committee Issued as committee
Committee Activity
by January 2 by January 2
in the House and in the House and
and activities. Contents vary by and activities. Contents vary by
House Rule XI House Rule XI
repor reportsa
Reports
(House) or by (House) or by
Senate Senate
committee, but may also have committee, but may also have
and Senate Rule and Senate Rule
March 31 (Senate) March 31 (Senate)
discussion, analysis, statistics, or discussion, analysis, statistics, or
XXVI XXVI
of an odd-numbered of an odd-numbered
documents. documents.
year year
House Oversight ~~Plans~~and
Once per Congress Once per Congress
Individual committees Individual committees
Planned review and legislative activities Planned review and legislative activities
Required by Required by
Compilation issued as Compilation issued as Authorization Plans
(Not later than (Not later than
in the Hou in the Houseb
within each committee’s jurisdiction within each committee’s jurisdiction
House Rule X House Rule X
a committee repor a committee reportc
March 1 of the first March 1 of the first
session of a session of a
Congress) Congress)
House Committee
Monthly Monthly
Individual committees Individual committees
May include information on expenses, May include information on expenses,
—d
Available onlin Available onlined
Reports
in the House in the House
staff, travel, and detailees. staff, travel, and detailees.
House and Senate
Once per Congr Once per Congresse
Issued by some Issued by some
Committee rules, membership, Committee rules, membership,
— —
May be issued as May be issued as
Committee Calendars
individual committees individual committees
legislation referred (may be arranged by legislation referred (may be arranged by
House or Senate House or Senate
in the House and in the House and
type, and indicate actions or type, and indicate actions or
~~printsf~~printsf
Sen Senatef
disposition), and lists of meetings and disposition), and lists of meetings and
documents prepared by or referred to documents prepared by or referred to
the committee the committee
House ~~Calendarg~~Calendarg
Each day the House Each day the House
Prepared under the Prepared under the
Special Orders agreed to by the House, Special Orders agreed to by the House,
— —
—h
is in session, with a is in session, with a
direction of the Clerk direction of the Clerk
lists of legislation or motions eligible for lists of legislation or motions eligible for
final calendar each final calendar each
of the House of the House
consideration, lists of public and private consideration, lists of public and private
session session
laws enacted during that Congress, laws enacted during that Congress,
additional legislative history on bil s additional legislative history on bil s
reported, considered, or in conference reported, considered, or in conference
CRS-10 CRS-10

link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15
Other Information
Title or Description of
Frequency of
Prepared or
Rules,
(Publication Type
Publication
Publication
Maintained by
Examples of Information Included
If Any
or Link)
Senate Calendar of
Each day the Senate Each day the Senate
Prepared under the Prepared under the
Unanimous consent agreements, Senate Unanimous consent agreements, Senate
— —
—h
Business (Legislative
is in session, with a is in session, with a
direction of the direction of the
and committee membership, lists of and committee membership, lists of
Calendar)i
final calendar each final calendar each
Secretary of the Senate Secretary of the Senate
legislation eligible for floor legislation eligible for floor
session session
consideration, notices by a Senator of consideration, notices by a Senator of
an intent to object to proceeding, an intent to object to proceeding,
conference committee information conference committee information
(including conferees), and the status of (including conferees), and the status of
appropriations bil s appropriations bil s
Senate Executive
Each day the Senate Each day the Senate
Prepared under the Prepared under the
Treaties and nominations that are Treaties and nominations that are

—h
Calendar j
is in session is in session
direction of the direction of the
reported by committees, “privileged” reported by committees, “privileged”
Secretary of the Senate Secretary of the Senate
nominations, and notices by a Senator of nominations, and notices by a Senator of
an intent to object to proceeding an intent to object to proceeding
Résumé of Congressional Monthly, with a final Monthly, with a final
Prepared under the Prepared under the
1. Days in session 1. Days in session
— —
Published in the Published in the
Activity
edition at the end of edition at the end of
direction of the Clerk direction of the Clerk
2. Time in session 2. Time in session
Congressional Record k
each session of each session of
of the House and the of the House and the
Congress Congress
Secretary of the Senate Secretary of the Senate
3. Number of pages in the 3. Number of pages in the Congressional
and includes and includes
Record
information on both information on both
4. Number of bil s introduced, reported, 4. Number of bil s introduced, reported,
chambers chambers
passed, and enacted passed, and enacted
5. Number of votes 5. Number of votes
6. Disposition of Executive Nominations 6. Disposition of Executive Nominations
U.S. House of
Continuous Continuous
Maintained by the Maintained by the
1. Text of legislation to be considered 1. Text of legislation to be considered
Required by Required by
Online since the 113th Online since the 113th
Representatives
Clerk of the Hou Clerk of the Housel
by the House and its committees by the House and its committees
House Rule X and Congress House Rule X and Congress
Document Repository at
2. Committee documents including for 2. Committee documents including for
XXIX and XXIX and
docs.house.gov
example: committee rules; hearing example: committee rules; hearing
standards standards
information; and supporting documents information; and supporting documents
adopted by the adopted by the
like notices, statements, and adopted like notices, statements, and adopted
Committee on Committee on
amendments amendments
House Admi House Adminm
Source: Compilation by CRS. For additional information, see CRS Report R43434, Compilation by CRS. For additional information, see CRS Report R43434, Policy and Legislative Research for Congressional Staff: Finding Documents, Analysis, News,
and Training, by Sarah W. Caldwel , , by Sarah W. Caldwel , ~~Ada S. Cornell~~El en M. Lechman, and Michele L. Malloy. , and Michele L. Malloy.
Notes:
a. Available at https://www.congress.gov/. Not all committees appear to have filed reports by the deadline in all Congresses. a. Available at https://www.congress.gov/. Not all committees appear to have filed reports by the deadline in all Congresses.
CRS-11 CRS-11

b. The House Committee on Appropriations, the Committee on Ethics, and the Committee on Rules are exempt from this requirement. b. The House Committee on Appropriations, the Committee on Ethics, and the Committee on Rules are exempt from this requirement.
c. For example, U.S. Congress, House Committee on Oversight and Reform, c. For example, U.S. Congress, House Committee on Oversight and Reform, Authorization and Oversight Plan for all House Committees, 116th Cong., 1st sess., April 19, , 116th Cong., 1st sess., April 19,
2019, H.Rept. 116-40 (Washington: GPO, 2019). They may also be issued by individual committees in prints or reports. 2019, H.Rept. 116-40 (Washington: GPO, 2019). They may also be issued by individual committees in prints or reports.
d. The d. The Committees’ Congressional Handbook (https://cha.house.gov/handbooks/committee-handbook) states: “Each Committee must submit to the Committee on House (https://cha.house.gov/handbooks/committee-handbook) states: “Each Committee must submit to the Committee on House
Administration, by the 18th of each month, an original and one copy of a report signed by the Committee Chair on the activities of the Committee during the Administration, by the 18th of each month, an original and one copy of a report signed by the Committee Chair on the activities of the Committee during the
preceding month.” It also specifies items for inclusion. The reports for the 116th Congress are available at https://cha.house.gov/committee-activity/committee-preceding month.” It also specifies items for inclusion. The reports for the 116th Congress are available at https://cha.house.gov/committee-activity/committee-
reports. reports.
e. One exception is the Committee on Rules, which has traditionally published its e. One exception is the Committee on Rules, which has traditionally published its Journal and History of Legislation each session, rather than for each Congress. each session, rather than for each Congress.
f. f.
Current practice regarding the issuance of calendars, which is not required by the House and Senate Rules, varies across committees. Those calendars that are Current practice regarding the issuance of calendars, which is not required by the House and Senate Rules, varies across committees. Those calendars that are
issued as committee prints are available at https://www.govinfo.gov/app/col ection/CPRT/. issued as committee prints are available at https://www.govinfo.gov/app/col ection/CPRT/.
g. For additional information, see CRS Report 98-437, g. For additional information, see CRS Report 98-437, Calendars of the House of Representatives, by Christopher M. Davis. , by Christopher M. Davis.
h. Available at https://www.senate.gov/reference/Index/Calendars_schedules.htm and https://www.govinfo.gov/app/col ection/CCAL/. h. Available at https://www.senate.gov/reference/Index/Calendars_schedules.htm and https://www.govinfo.gov/app/col ection/CCAL/.
i. i.
For additional information, see CRS Report 98-429, For additional information, see CRS Report 98-429, The Senate’s Calendar of Business, coordinated by Elizabeth Rybicki. , coordinated by Elizabeth Rybicki.
j. j.
For additional information, see CRS Report 98-438, For additional information, see CRS Report 98-438, The Senate’s Executive Calendar, coordinated by Elizabeth Rybicki. , coordinated by Elizabeth Rybicki.
k. Available since 1947, at https://www.senate.gov/pagelayout/reference/two_column_table/Resumes.htm and https://history.house.gov/Institution/Resumes-of- k. Available since 1947, at https://www.senate.gov/pagelayout/reference/two_column_table/Resumes.htm and https://history.house.gov/Institution/Resumes-of-
Congressional-Activity/Resumes-Of-Congressional-Activitity/. Congressional-Activity/Resumes-Of-Congressional-Activitity/.
l. l.
According to the website, content for the “Bil s to be considered on the House Floor” section is provided by the House majority leader’s office and the Committee According to the website, content for the “Bil s to be considered on the House Floor” section is provided by the House majority leader’s office and the Committee
on Rules. House standing and select committees provide content for the “committee repository” section (https://docs.house.gov/). on Rules. House standing and select committees provide content for the “committee repository” section (https://docs.house.gov/).
m. In particular, House Rule X, clause 4(d)(1)(E), House Rule XXIX, clause 3; and Committee on House Administration, m. In particular, House Rule X, clause 4(d)(1)(E), House Rule XXIX, clause 3; and Committee on House Administration, Standards for the Electronic Posting of House and
Committee Documents & Data.

CRS-12 CRS-12

link to page 17 link to page 17
Appendix. List of Activity Reports
Table A-1. Senate Committee Activity Reports Issued Since the 111th Congress
covering activities since the 110th Congress, report covers activities of prior Congress covering activities since the 110th Congress, report covers activities of prior Congress
Committee
111th
112th
113th
114th
115th
116th
117th
118th Armed Services Armed Services
S.Rept. 111-5 S.Rept. 111-5
S.Rept. 112-2 S.Rept. 112-2
S.Rept. 113-10 S.Rept. 113-10
S.Rept. 114-7 S.Rept. 114-7
S.Rept. 115-207 S.Rept. 115-207

Banking, Housing Banking, Housing
S.Rept. 111-17 S.Rept. 111-17
S.Rept. 112-7 S.Rept. 112-7
S.Rept. 113-2 S.Rept. 113-2

S.Rept. 117-3 S.Rept. 117-3
S.Rept. 118-10 and Urban Affairs and Urban Affairs
Bud Budgeta

S.Rept. 114-31 S.Rept. 114-31

Commerce, Commerce, ~~Science,~~

S.Rept. 113-206 S.Rept. 113-206
S.Rept. 114-50 S.Rept. 114-50
S.Rept. 115-18 S.Rept. 115-18
S.Rept. 116-24 S.Rept. 116-24
S.Rept. 117-8 S.Rept. 117-8
S.Rept. 118-21 Science, and ~~and~~ Transportation Transportation
Energy and Energy and ~~Natural~~
S.Rept. 111-8 S.Rept. 111-8
S.Rept. 112-4 S.Rept. 112-4
S.Rept. 113-4 S.Rept. 113-4
S.Rept. 114-6 S.Rept. 114-6
S.Rept. 115-10 S.Rept. 115-10
S.Rept. 116-25 S.Rept. 116-25
S.Rept. 117-4 S.Rept. 117-4
S.Rept. 118-6 Natural Resources Resources
Finance Finance
S.Rept. 111-13 S.Rept. 111-13
S.Rept. 112-11 S.Rept. 112-11
S.Rept. 113-5 S.Rept. 113-5
S.Rept. 114-9 S.Rept. 114-9
S.Rept. 115-25 S.Rept. 115-25
S.Rept. 116-19 S.Rept. 116-19
S.Rept. 117-9 S.Rept. 117-9
S.Rept. 118-4 Foreign Relations Foreign Relations
S.Rept. 111-12 S.Rept. 111-12
S.Rept. 112-10 S.Rept. 112-10
S.Rept. 113-8 S.Rept. 113-8
S.Rept. 114-178 S.Rept. 114-178
S.Rept. 115-22 S.Rept. 115-22
S.Rept. 116-23 S.Rept. 116-23

Homeland Homeland ~~Security~~
S.Rept. 111-360 S.Rept. 111-360
S.Rept. 112-193S.Rept. 112-193
S.Rept. 113-115S.Rept. 113-115
S.Rept. 114-33 S.Rept. 114-33
S.Rept. 115-12 S.Rept. 115-12
S.Rept. 116-17 S.Rept. 116-17
S.Rept. 117-1 S.Rept. 117-1
S.Rept. 118-1 Security and Government and Government
Affairs Affairs
Health, Health, ~~Education,~~

S.Rept. 116-26 S.Rept. 116-26

S.Rept. 118-7 Education, Labor, and Pensions Labor, and Pensions
Intelligence Intelligence ~~(Select)~~
S.Rept. 111-6 S.Rept. 111-6
S.Rept. 112-3 S.Rept. 112-3
S.Rept. 113-7 S.Rept. 113-7
S.Rept. 114-8 S.Rept. 114-8
S.Rept. 115-13 S.Rept. 115-13
S.Rept. 116-20 S.Rept. 116-20
S.Rept. 117-2 S.Rept. 117-2
S.Rept. 118-5 (Select) Judiciary Judiciary
S.Rept. 111-11 S.Rept. 111-11
S.Rept. 112-5 S.Rept. 112-5
S.Rept. 113-6 S.Rept. 113-6
S.Rept. 114-10 S.Rept. 114-10
S.Rept. 115-19 S.Rept. 115-19
S.Rept. 116-22 S.Rept. 116-22
S.Rept. 117-7 S.Rept. 117-7
S.Rept. 118-11 Rules and Rules and

S.Rept. 112-8 S.Rept. 112-8
S.Rept. 113-11 S.Rept. 113-11
S.Rept. 114-11 S.Rept. 114-11
S.Rept. 115-20 S.Rept. 115-20
S.Rept. 116-68 S.Rept. 116-68

S.Rept. 118-8 Administration Administration
Small Business Small Business
S.Rept. 111-2 S.Rept. 111-2
S.Rept. 112-6 S.Rept. 112-6
S.Rept. 113-33 S.Rept. 113-33
S.Rept. 114-252 S.Rept. 114-252
S.Rept. 115-33 CRS-13 Committee 111th 112th 113th 114th 115th 116th 117th 118th ~~S.Rept. 115-33~~

Veterans’ Affairs Veterans’ Affairs

S.Rept. 113-125 S.Rept. 113-125
S.Rept. 114-156S.Rept. 114-156
S.Rept. 115-17 S.Rept. 115-17
S.Rept. 116-51 S.Rept. 116-51
S.Rept. 117-16 S.Rept. 117-16
S.Rept. 118-3 Source: CRS search of congress.gov and https://www.govinfo.gov/app/col ection/crpt. CRS search of congress.gov and https://www.govinfo.gov/app/col ection/crpt.
~~CRS-13~~

~~link to page 18 link to page 18 link to page 18~~
Notes: While CRS attempted to locate all activity reports, searching by committee names and using keyword searches, additional reports may exist. As stated above, While CRS attempted to locate all activity reports, searching by committee names and using keyword searches, additional reports may exist. As stated above,
other committee publications, including committee calendars, may document the activities of Senate committees. Committees for which CRS did not identify activity other committee publications, including committee calendars, may document the activities of Senate committees. Committees for which CRS did not identify activity
reports since the 111th Congress are not listed in the table. As stated above, reports covering the activities in one Congress are generally filed early in the next reports since the 111th Congress are not listed in the table. As stated above, reports covering the activities in one Congress are generally filed early in the next
Congress. For example, the reports filed in the 116th Congress would cover activities of the 115th Congress. Congress. For example, the reports filed in the 116th Congress would cover activities of the 115th Congress.
a. The Senate Budget Committee, as well as the Senate Appropriations Committee, is exempt from the filing requirement. a. The Senate Budget Committee, as well as the Senate Appropriations Committee, is exempt from the filing requirement.
CRS-14 link to page 19 link to page 19 link to page 19 Table A-2. House Committee Activity Reports Issued Since the 110th Congress
reports cover activities from the Congress, or portion of the Congress, in which they are filed reports cover activities from the Congress, or portion of the Congress, in which they are filed
112th
112th
112th
112th
113th
113th
Committee
110th
111th
(1st)
(2nd)
(3rd)
(4th)
(1st)
(2nd)
114th
115th
116th
117th Agriculture Agriculture
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. 110-933 110-933
111-703 111-703
112-122 112-122
112-340 112-340
112-574 112-574
112-749 112-749
113-308 113-308
113-679 113-679
114-896 114-896
115-1108 115-1108
~~116-714~~ 116-714 117-707
Appropriations Appropriations
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. 110-932 110-932
111-700 111-700
112-145 112-145
112-354 112-354
112-570 112-570
112-748 112-748
113-315 113-315
113-724 113-724
114-902 114-902
115-1121 115-1121
~~116-716~~ 116-716 117-703
Armed Services Armed Services
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. 110-942 110-942
111-710 111-710
112-123 112-123
112-359 112-359
112-575 112-575
112-744 112-744
113-309 113-309
113-714 113-714
114-885 114-885
115-1100 115-1100
~~116-709~~ 116-709 117-666
Budget Budget
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. 110-928 110-928
111-704 111-704
112-147 112-147
112-358 112-358
112-543 112-543
112-713 112-713
113-306 113-306
113-680 113-680
114-897 114-897
115-1124 115-1124
~~116-706~~
~~Education and~~ 116-706 117-690 Education and the H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
~~Labo~~raWorkforcea
110-923 110-923
111-696 111-696
112-133 112-133
112-338 112-338
112-569 112-569
112-714 112-714
113-313 113-313
113-725 113-725
114-904 114-904
115-1123 115-1123
~~116-711~~ 116-711 117-700
Energy and Energy and
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. Commerce Commerce
110-937 110-937
111-706 111-706
112-125 112-125
112-337 112-337
112-561 112-561
112-746 112-746
113-305 113-305
113-716 113-716
114-906 114-906
115-1126 115-1126
~~116-713~~ 116-713 117-702
Ethi Ethicsb
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.

H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. 110-938 110-938
111-707 111-707
112-739 112-739
113-323 113-323
113-727 113-727
114-910 114-910
115-1125 115-1125
~~116-703~~ 116-703 117-706
Financial Services Financial Services
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. 110-929 110-929
111-702 111-702
112-121 112-121
112-355 112-355
112-559 112-559
112-742 112-742
113-311 113-311
113-722 113-722
114-903 114-903
115-1122 115-1122
~~116-718~~ 116-718 117-701
Foreign Affairs Foreign Affairs
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
see no see notec H.Rept.
110-939 110-939
111-713 111-713
112-126 112-126
112-350 112-350
112-552 112-552
112-743 112-743
113-318 113-318
113-728 113-728
114-898 114-898
115-1113 115-1113
~~Homeland Security~~117-697 Homeland H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
Security 110-940 110-940
111-699 111-699
112-127 112-127
112-351 112-351
112-522 112-522
112-730 112-730
113-314 113-314
113-719 113-719
114-907 114-907
115-1127 115-1127
~~116-720~~ 116-720 117-691
House House
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. Administration Administration
110-924 110-924
111-715 111-715
112-137 112-137
112-360 112-360
112-571 112-571
112-738 112-738
113-312 113-312
113-721 113-721
114-901 114-901
115-1109 115-1109
116-707 117-698 ~~116-707~~
~~CRS-14~~

~~link to page 19 link to page 19~~
~~112th~~
~~112th~~
~~112th~~
~~112th~~
~~113th~~
~~113th~~
~~Committee~~
~~110th~~
~~111th~~
~~(1st)~~
~~(2nd)~~
~~(3rd)~~
~~(4th)~~
~~(1st)~~
~~(2nd)~~
~~114th~~
~~115th~~
~~116th~~
Intelligence Intelligence

H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.

(Permanent (Permanent ~~Select)~~
112-134 112-134
112-353 112-353
112-560 112-560
112-733 112-733
113-310 113-310
113-717 113-717
114-881 114-881
115-1111 115-1111
Select) Judiciary Judiciary
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
110-941 110-941
111-712 111-712
112-119 112-119
112-352 112-352
112-562 112-562
112-747 112-747
113-301 113-301
113-682 113-682
114-895 114-895
115-1112 115-1112
~~116-715~~
~~Natural Resources~~ 116-715 CRS-15 link to page 19 link to page 19 112th 112th 112th 112th 113th 113th Committee 110th 111th (1st) (2nd) (3rd) (4th) (1st) (2nd) 114th 115th 116th 117th Natural H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
Resources 110-925 110-925
111-701 111-701
112-132 112-132
112-346 112-346
112-572 112-572
112-752 112-752
113-307 113-307
113-720 113-720
114-886 114-886
115-1128 115-1128
~~116-712~~ 116-712 117-704
Oversight and Oversight and
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
~~Refor~~mdH.Rept. Accountabilityd
110-930 110-930
111-705 111-705
112-128 112-128
112-349 112-349
112-568 112-568
112-740 112-740
113-303 113-303
113-734 113-734
114-909 114-909
115-1114 115-1114
~~116-710~~ 116-710 117-699
Rules Rules
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. 110-931 110-931
111-714 111-714
112-129 112-129
112-357 112-357
112-567 112-567
112-751 112-751
113-317 113-317
113-726 113-726
114-905 114-905
115-1130 115-1130
~~116-722~~ 116-722 117-709
Science, Space, Science, Space, ~~and~~ H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
and TechnoloTechnologye
110-935 110-935
111-698 111-698
112-112 112-112
112-347 112-347
112-555 112-555
112-745 112-745
113-302 113-302
113-681 113-681
114-884 114-884
115-1080 115-1080
~~116-719~~ 116-719 117-694
Small Business Small Business
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. 110-926 110-926
111-695 111-695
112-146 112-146
112-339 112-339
112-554 112-554
112-729 112-729
113-304 113-304
113-684 113-684
114-880 114-880
115-1079 115-1079
~~116-702~~ 116-702 117-661
Transportation Transportation ~~and~~ H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
~~Infrastructure~~
H.Rept. and Infrastructure 110-936 110-936
111-711 111-711
112-124 112-124
112-348 112-348
112-573 112-573
112-718 112-718
113-316 113-316
113-718 113-718
114-899 114-899
115-1099 115-1099
~~116-717~~ 116-717 117-705
Veterans’ Affairs Veterans’ Affairs
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. 110-927 110-927
111-697 111-697
112-120 112-120
112-341 112-341
112-547 112-547
112-706 112-706
113-300 113-300
113-659 113-659
114-879 114-879
115-1120 115-1120
~~116-698~~ 116-698 117-688
Ways and Means Ways and Means
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. H.Rept.
H.Rept. 110-934 110-934
111-708 111-708
112-130 112-130
112-356 112-356
112-556 112-556
112-750 112-750
113-319 113-319
113-723 113-723
114-887 114-887
115-1115 115-1115
116-721 117~~116-721~~
~~Select, Climate~~

~~H.Rept.~~
~~Crisis~~
~~116~~-708 -708
Source: CRS search of congress.gov, https://www.govinfo.gov/app/col ection/crpt, and committee websites. CRS search of congress.gov, https://www.govinfo.gov/app/col ection/crpt, and committee websites.
Notes: While CRS attempted to locate all activity reports, searching by committee names and using keyword searches, additional reports may exist. As stated above, While CRS attempted to locate all activity reports, searching by committee names and using keyword searches, additional reports may exist. As stated above,
generally, since 1970, one report has been required each Congress. The Rules of the House adopted for the 112th and 113th Congresses experimented with increasing generally, since 1970, one report has been required each Congress. The Rules of the House adopted for the 112th and 113th Congresses experimented with increasing
the frequency of these reports, before reverting to the prior practice of one report per Congress in the 114th Congress (H.Res. 5, January 5, 2011, §2(e)(13); H.Res. 5, the frequency of these reports, before reverting to the prior practice of one report per Congress in the 114th Congress (H.Res. 5, January 5, 2011, §2(e)(13); H.Res. 5,
January 3, 2013, §2(a); H.Res. 5, January 6, 2015, §2(a)(4).)January 3, 2013, §2(a); H.Res. 5, January 6, 2015, §2(a)(4).) In the given time period, several Select Committees also released activity reports: H.Rept. 113-730 from the Select Committee on the Events Surrounding the 2012 Terrorist Attack in Benghazi; H.Rept. 116-708 and H.Rept. 117-662 from the Select Committee on Climate Crisis; H.Rept. 117-692 from the Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol; H.Rept. 117-619 from the Select Committee on Economic Disparity and Fairness In Growth; H.Rept. 117-646 from the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress. a. Formerly named the Committee on Education and Labor during the 116th-117th
~~a. Formerly named the Committee on Education and the Workforce during the 112th-115th~~ Congresses. Congresses.
b. Formerly named the Committee on Standards of Official Conduct during the 110th and 111th Congresses. b. Formerly named the Committee on Standards of Official Conduct during the 110th and 111th Congresses.
c. c. ~~See an~~An unnumbered version was previously available on the committee’s website. ~~unnumbered version at https://foreignaffairs.house.gov/committee-activity-report.~~
~~CRS-15~~

d. Formerly named the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform during the 110th-115thd. Formerly named the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform during the 110th-115th Congresses and the Committee on Oversight and Reform during the 116th-117th Congresses. ~~Congresses.~~
e. Formerly named the Committee on Science and Technology during the 110th and 111th Congresses. e. Formerly named the Committee on Science and Technology during the 110th and 111th Congresses.
CRS-16 CRS-16

Guide to Committee Activity Reports: Purpose, Rules, and Contents

Author Information

Ida A. Brudnick Ida A. Brudnick

Specialist on the Congress Specialist on the Congress

Acknowledgments
Jennifer E. Manning, Information Research Specialist, and Lara Chausow, formerly a CRS Research Jennifer E. Manning, Information Research Specialist, and Lara Chausow, formerly a CRS Research
Assistant, contributed to the compilation of information for this report. Assistant, contributed to the compilation of information for this report.
Tyler Wolanin contributed to an update.
Disclaimer
This document was prepared by the Congressional Research Service (CRS). CRS serves as nonpartisan This document was prepared by the Congressional Research Service (CRS). CRS serves as nonpartisan
shared staff to congressional committees and Members of Congress. It operates solely at the behest of and shared staff to congressional committees and Members of Congress. It operates solely at the behest of and
under the direction of Congress. Information in a CRS Report should not be relied upon for purposes other under the direction of Congress. Information in a CRS Report should not be relied upon for purposes other
than public understanding of information that has been provided by CRS to Members of Congress in than public understanding of information that has been provided by CRS to Members of Congress in
connection with CRS’s institutional role. CRS Reports, as a work of the United States Government, are not connection with CRS’s institutional role. CRS Reports, as a work of the United States Government, are not
subject to copyright protection in the United States. Any CRS Report may be reproduced and distributed in subject to copyright protection in the United States. Any CRS Report may be reproduced and distributed in
its entirety without permission from CRS. However, as a CRS Report may include copyrighted images or its entirety without permission from CRS. However, as a CRS Report may include copyrighted images or
material from a third party, you may need to obtain the permission of the copyright holder if you wish to material from a third party, you may need to obtain the permission of the copyright holder if you wish to
copy or otherwise use copyrighted material. copy or otherwise use copyrighted material.

Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service
R45104 R45104 · VERSION 78 · UPDATED
17 17