Members stay informed about national and international events by reading national newspapers and news magazines, watching television news and magazine shows, and listening to national radio programs. Members meet to exchange views and information with officials from the executive branch, lobbyists, businessmen, professionals and academics. Members attend receptions, dinners, and conferences to meet people and cement working relationships. On average, a House Member serves on two committees, and a Senator serves on four. Members must develop expertise in the subject matters covered by their committee assignments.
Members attend committee meetings to take testimony or mark-up legislation.
Members prepare questions to pose to witnesses during committee hearings. Members prepare amendments to bills under committee consideration. Members vote on motions, amendments, and decisions on whether or not to report a bill out from committee to the floor. Members write statements for committee reports and studies. Members prepare amendments to bills under committee consideration.