The **United States House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform** is a powerful standing committee within the House of Representatives, tasked with overseeing the federal government’s operations to ensure efficiency, effectiveness, and accountability[1][3][6]. Established in 1816, it has evolved into the House's chief watchdog committee with broad investigatory powers covering nearly all aspects of government, from national security and healthcare to information technology and federal workforce policies[1][4][6].
The committee’s mission is to protect taxpayers by making sure government funds are well spent and government agencies operate transparently and efficiently. It actively investigates waste, fraud, abuse, and mismanagement, working closely with citizen watchdogs and employing bipartisan oversight to hold federal agencies accountable[3][6]. It has legislative jurisdiction over areas such as government procurement, federal personnel systems, the Postal Service, and the District of Columbia, among others[3]. This broad scope allows it to address emerging issues across government functions, including cybersecurity and innovation, economic growth, law enforcement, and regulatory reforms[1][6].
The committee is composed of members from both major political parties, with its membership and leadership fluctuating based on the House majority. During the current 119th Congress (2025), it consists of 47 members and is divided into several permanent subcommittees specializing in sectors like Healthcare and Financial Services, Cybersecurity, Government Operations, and Military and Foreign Affairs[1][6]. These divisions enable detailed and focused oversight and legislative reviews.
Key achievements of the committee include exposing government inefficiencies, preventing wasteful spending, and driving reforms to improve federal operations. Its ability to conduct government-wide oversight makes it uniquely influential in shaping policy and ensuring government responsiveness to public needs[4][7]. Under the current chairmanship of James Comer, the committee continues to emphasize transparency and reform, particularly in technology and government innovation sectors[6].
In summary, the House Oversight Committee stands as a central pillar of congressional accountability, combining historic authority