Committees
Most bills are proposed, studied, and refined by lawmakers in committees. This is where most successful legislation gets its start. Any citizen may testify before a House or Senate committee to express their views or experience regarding an issue or proposed bill and all meetings are open to the public. This is one of the most important forums of the legislative process and provides the best opportunity for constituents to make their voices heard.
There are four types of committees in the Kansas House of Representatives:
- Standing Committees: Standing Committees specifically consider proposed legislation and make a recommendation to the full House body. Members are typically selected to standing committees based on their background, interest, or experience (ie, a lifelong teacher would likely serve on the Education Committee). The majority party chairs all standing committees, while the minority party selects a Ranking Democrat and other members based on the number of individuals in the minority caucus. They meet at a regular time and place during the legislative session.
- Statutory Committees: Statutory Committees are created as part of legislation and are composed of members from both the House and Senate. Statutory committees meet throughout the year, though predominantly when the Legislature is not in session.
- Joint
Committees: A joint committee is similar to a statutory
committee, although it consists of consists of equal representation from both
the House and Senate.
- Select Committees: Select House Committees are only created by the Speaker of the House or by House resolution. A select committee usually investigates a specific matter and ceases to exist after the issue has been resolved and the committee reports its findings to the Legislature.
