Since, Thursday, January
7th, 1802, the Ways and Means Committee
has served as one of the most important bodies
in Congress. According to the Constitution
all bills regarding taxation must originate
in the House of Representatives, and according
to established House procedure all bills
regarding taxation must go through the
Committee on Ways and Means. The committee
has jurisdiction over any proposed taxation,
tariffs, or other revenue-raising measures.
Since its inception, three US Presidents
(James K. Polk, Millard Fillmore, William
McKinley) have served as Chairman of the
Committee before becoming President.
Six subcommittees also exist in the areas
of Trade, Oversight, Health, Social Security,
Human Resources, and Select Revenue Measures. Jim
is currently Chairman of the Ways and Means
Oversight Subcommittee.