Number: RL34611
Title: Whither the Role of Conference Committees: An Analysis
Authors: Walter Oleszek, Government and Finance Division 
Abstract: Conference committees have long been known as the "third house of Congress." They are often the principal forum for resolving bicameral differences on major measures when the House and Senate pass dissimilar versions of the same bills. Current developments suggest, however, that the "third house" characterization might require modification. It is not that conference committees are unimportant, it is that another method for adjusting and reconciling bicameral differences on significant legislation has taken on greater prominence in the contemporary Congress. This method is the exchange of amendments between the houses - the so-called "ping pong" method.
Pages: 40
Date: August 12, 2008