United States Senate Committee on the District of Columbia facts for kids

The United States Senate Committee on the District of Columbia was an important group in the United States Senate. It was created way back in 1816. This committee was in charge of everything related to Washington, D.C., which is also known as the District of Columbia.

What Was This Committee?

This committee was one of the very first "standing committees" in the Senate. A standing committee is a permanent group of senators. They focus on a specific topic. The District of Columbia Committee's job was to oversee the capital city. This meant they handled laws and rules for Washington, D.C.

Why Did the Committee Change?

The committee existed for a very long time. It helped manage Washington, D.C., for over 160 years. But in 1977, things changed for the city. Washington, D.C., was given "home rule." This means the city got more power to govern itself. It could make more of its own decisions. Because of this, the Senate committee's job was no longer needed. Its duties were moved to another group. This new group was called the Committee on Governmental Affairs.