The preeminent role of the legislative branch is to make the law. Congress was created as a deliberative institution and has an obligation to gather information from the public when considering new policy. Information fuels the legislative process. One method of gathering information is to hold committee meets to hear expert witness testimony. Hearings are so important that Congress has the power to subpoena witnesses to testify on a panel to provide the legislators with the information they seek.
Legislative ideas originate in several ways.
Only a Representative or Senator, however, may actually introduce a bill in Congress, which is done on the House or Senate floor. It is common practice, however, for other legislators in that chamber to co-sponsor a bill. Drafts of proposed legislation from the President or an executive agency are usually introduced by the chairman or ranking member of the committee that has authority in that particular subject matter. When a bill is introduced, the Speaker of the House or Senate Majority Leader, depending on where the legislation originates, will then refer it to a standing committee for further study and action. Standing committees are composed of Members of Congress from both political parties and have a large professional staff with policy expertise.