Congressional oversight functions

Definition

Congressional oversight functions refer to the powers and responsibilities of the United States Congress to supervise and review the executive branch, ensuring that it is acting in accordance with laws and policies. This includes monitoring government agencies, conducting investigations, and holding hearings.

Related terms

Legislative oversight: Legislative oversight refers specifically to Congress's role in overseeing and monitoring activities of the executive branch related to legislation.

Government accountability: Government accountability relates to holding government officials responsible for their actions and decisions.

Checks and balances: Checks and balances is a system where each branch of government has some control over the other branches, ensuring no one branch becomes too powerful.