Which is a joint committee?

A. a select committee
B. a conference committee
C. a standing committee
D. a committee of the whole

B

You're probably right.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joint_committee

The correct answer is B, a conference committee.

To arrive at this answer, it is important to understand the different types of congressional committees.

A joint committee is a committee comprised of members from both the House of Representatives and the Senate. Joint committees are usually established to conduct specific studies or oversee ongoing issues that affect both chambers. However, none of the options listed - select committee, standing committee, and committee of the whole - fall under the category of a joint committee.

A select committee is a temporary committee created for a specific purpose, often to investigate an issue or address a particular concern. These committees are typically dissolved once their objectives are met.

A standing committee is a permanent committee that is established in each chamber of Congress (House of Representatives and Senate). These committees have fixed jurisdiction over specific subject areas and are responsible for reviewing proposed legislation related to their respective fields.

A committee of the whole, on the other hand, refers to a situation where the entire membership of the House of Representatives assembles as a committee. This is done to expedite the consideration of important legislation or to hold informal discussions. It is not categorized as a joint committee.

Therefore, the appropriate option from the given choices that represents a joint committee is B, a conference committee.