Committee Work

The U.S. Senate uses a committee system to hold hearings, draft and amend legislation, and conduct oversight of the executive branch. Senate committees also consider treaties and nominations under the Senate's constitutional authority of "advice and consent."

There are twenty different U.S. Senate committees and four joint committees. Each committee has jurisdiction over different issues. Senator Reed serves on four committees:

Appropriations Committee

The Appropriations Committee has broad jurisdiction over federal spending bills. Senator Reed serves on seven of the twelve subcommittees:

  • Member, Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services and Education
  • Member, Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, and Science
  • Member, Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Administration and Related Agencies
  • Member, Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development
  • Member, Subcommittee on Interior and Environment
  • Member, Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs
  • Member, Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration

Armed Services Committee

The SASC has comprehensive oversight of the Armed Forces, the Defense Department, and military operations.

    Chairman, Subcommittee on Emerging Threats and Capabilities
  • Member, Subcommittee on Seapower
  • Member, Subcommittee on Strategic Forces

Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee

The Banking Committee has broad oversight over our nation's financial institutions, monetary policy, and housing and mass transit programs.

  • Chairman, Subcommittee on Securities, Insurance, and Investment
  • Member, Subcommittee on Housing, Transportation, and Community Development
  • Member, Subcommittee on Financial Institutions

Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee

The HELP Committee oversees our nation's health care, education, employment, and retirement programs.

  • Member, Subcommittee on Children and Families
  • Member, Subcommittee on Retirement and Aging