Congressional advisory commissions are formal groups established to provide independent advice, make recommendations for changes in public policy and study or investigate a particular problem, issue or event. This book defines congressional commission as a multi-member independent entity that is established by Congress.

Congressional advisory commissions are formal groups established to provide independent advice, make recommendations for changes in public policy and study or investigate a particular problem, issue or event. While no legal definition exists for what constitutes a "congressional commission," in this book, congressional commission is defined as a multi-member independent entity that is established by Congress; exists temporarily; serves in an advisory capacity; is appointed in part or whole by Members of Congress and reports to Congress. This book provides an overview and analysis of congressional advisory commissions, information on the general statutory structure of a congressional commission and a catalogue of congressional commissions created since the 101st Congress.