Most of the work of Congress happens in which setting?

• A. during recess
• B. in committees
• C. on the floor
• D. through hearings

Answer: (D)

Most of Congress's substantive work happens in committees and subcommittees. These smaller, policy-focused groups handle the daily tasks of shaping laws: studying proposed bills, debating and drafting amendments, and deciding which measures should move forward. Staff and experts support this process by researching, drafting language, and organizing hearings to gather information. Hearings are a tool used within committees to collect testimony, but the core work of writing and refining legislation happens in the committee rooms. The floor is where bills are debated and votes are taken after committee work, while recess is simply a break in the session.