Congressional oversight includes reviewing and monitoring programs and activities of federal agencies within the jurisdiction of the Select Committee.  This is a critical role for Congress and fundamental to our government’s system of checks and balances.  The Select Committee’s lack of legislative jurisdiction increases the significance of our investigative powers, which allows us to:

“investigate, study, make findings, and develop recommendations on policies, strategies, technologies and other innovations, intended to reduce the dependence of the United States on foreign sources of energy and achieve substantial and permanent reductions in emissions and other activities that contribute to climate change and global warming.” (H.Res.5, 111^th Congress)

I firmly believe in Congress’ duty of oversight over the Administration.  As Ranking Republican of the Select Committee, I have sent numerous letters to the Administration requesting further information over Executive Branch actions.

It is also imperative for Congress to closely investigate the activity of all the various agencies.