Because they have legislative jurisdiction, standing committees consider bills and issues and recommend measures for consideration by their respective chambers.
Due to their permanent nature, these committees exist beyond the adjournment of each two-year meeting of Congress.
For example, the Appropriations Committees recommend legislation to provide budget authority for federal agencies and programs.
The Budget Committees establish aggregate levels for total spending and revenue that serve as guidelines for the work of the authorizing and appropriating panels.
Each committee is assigned its own staff to assist with its legislative, investigative, and research functions.