Resolutions of Inquiry Used by the House of Representatives

The resolution of inquiry is a simple House resolution that seeks factual information from the executive branch. Such resolutions are given privileged status under House rules and may be considered at any time after being properly reported or discharged from committee. Such resolutions apply only to requests for facts - not opinions - within an Administration’s control. This book examines the history, procedure, specific uses of resolutions of inquiry, and notes recent increases in their usage.