Congressional Oversight

Definition

Congressional oversight refers to review, monitoring, and supervision of federal agencies, programs, activities, and policy implementation carried out by Congress. It is one way that Congress checks on how effectively executive branch agencies are implementing laws.

Related terms

Checks and Balances: A system that allows each branch of a government to amend or veto acts of another branch so as not to have absolute power.

Executive Branch: The part of government responsible for implementing, supporting, and enforcing laws made by the legislative branch.

Legislative Branch: The part of government that creates laws.