Joint committee (legislative)

A joint committee is a legislative committee consisting of members from both houses of a bicameral legislature. These committees are formed for a variety of purposes, often related to efficiency, expertise, or to address issues that require cooperation between the two legislative bodies.

Joint committees may be standing committees, meaning they are permanent committees with a continuing jurisdiction, or they may be ad hoc or select committees, created for a specific purpose and dissolved upon completion of their assigned task.

Common functions of joint committees include:

• Study and Investigation: Examining specific issues or areas of policy, conducting research, and gathering information to inform legislative action.
• Oversight: Monitoring the implementation of existing laws and programs, ensuring accountability and identifying potential problems.
• Coordination: Facilitating communication and collaboration between the two houses of the legislature, streamlining the legislative process.
• Recommending Legislation: Developing and proposing new laws or amendments to existing laws, based on their research and deliberations.

The specific powers and responsibilities of a joint committee are typically defined by the legislature that creates it. The composition of a joint committee (e.g., the number of members from each house, the method of appointment) is also determined by legislative rules or statute. They are frequently used when a matter requires a comprehensive review, combining the perspectives and resources of both chambers.