Number: RL30260
Title: Federal Advisory Committees: A Primer
Authors: Wendy Ginsberg, Government and Finance Division 
Abstract: Although George Washington is usually credited with initiating the tradition of the President seeking outside advice when he appointed an ad hoc group of commissioners in 1794 to deal with the Whiskey Rebellion, it was not until the 20th century that the Chief Executive, Congress, and agency heads began to make extensive use of such panels to render independent advice and recommendations. Whether designated as commissions, committees, councils, or task forces, these independent study bodies have dealt with social crises, policy issues, and technical problems of major proportions.
Pages: 40
Date: July 16, 2008