It has subpoena power and is authorized to take testimony of witnesses and to produce books, records, papers, and documents that it deems necessary.

In the past it has dealt with international cooperation, eradication, trafficking, interdiction, border control, drug strategies, assessments of Federal programs, and money laundering issues.

The Caucus has held numerous hearings over the years and has issued a number of reports on U.S. narcotics control policy.

L. 99–151), the name of the Commission was changed to the United States Senate Caucus on International Narcotics Control, effective November 13, 1985.

The appointment of private citizens was discontinued after 1987 in accordance with the group's redesignation as the U.S. Senate Caucus on International Narcotics Control.