Agency description:

The Department of Agriculture (USDA) deals with the regulation of farming, food, natural resources, and animals (both livestock and the importation of domestic animals).

Website:

www.usda.gov

Enabling Statute:

“There shall be at the seat of government a Department of Agriculture, the general design and duties of which shall be to acquire and to diffuse among the people of the United States useful information on subjects connected with agriculture, rural development, aquaculture, and human nutrition, in the most general and comprehensive sense of those terms, and to procure, propagate, and distribute among the people new and valuable seeds and plants.” 7 U.S.C. § 2201

Key issues:

Animal health, diseases, research, and care; veterinary biologics; biotechnology; food recalls; safe food handling; food borne illness; food assistance, including food stamps and women, infants and children (WIC); plant health; forestry; rural and community development; national security related to harvest safety.

Sub-agencies:

Agricultural Marketing Service; Agricultural Research Service; Animal Plant Health Inspection Service; Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion; Commodity Credit Corporation; Economic Research Service; Farm Service Agency; Food and Nutrition Service; Food Safety and Inspection Service; Foreign Agricultural Service; Forest Service; Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration; National Agricultural Statistics Service; National Institute of Food and Agriculture; Natural Resources Conservation Service; Risk Management Agency; Rural Development

Agency description:

The Agricultural Marketing Service oversees programs to ensure the competitive and efficient sale and marketing of agricultural products.

Website:

www.ams.usda.gov

Key issues:

Marketing and promoting cotton, dairy, fruits, vegetables, livestock, seed, poultry, eggs, and tobacco; Grading, certification, and verification of agricultural products; National Organic Product Program; farmers markets and local food markets.

Agency description:

The Agricultural Research Service is the primary research agency of the USDA.

Website:

www.ars.usda.gov

Key issues:

National Agricultural Library, which covers information about alternative farm systems, animal welfare, nutrition, food safety, invasive species, rural community information, and water quality.

Agency description:

The Animal Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) monitors the health and value of agricultural products, animals, and natural resources.

Website:

www.aphis.usda.gov

Key issues:

Animal health and welfare; outbreaks of animal or plant disease; import and export of plants, animals, and animal products; pest detection; wildlife conservation; reduction of damage caused by wildlife.

Agency description:

The Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion develops dietary guidelines.

Website:

www.cnpp.usda.gov

Key issues:

Food pyramid; dietary guidelines; cost of food.

Agency description:

The Commodity Credit Corporation is a government corporation that strives to stabilize farm income, prices, and supplies of agricultural commodities.

Website:

www.apfo.usda.gov

Key issues:

Payments to farmers of cotton, rice, wheat, and feed grains based on target prices; the sale of agricultural products to other agencies and foreign governments; donation of food products to relief agencies.

Agency description:

The Economic Research Service conducts research to provide information about food, farming, and agricultural policy to agency decisionmakers.

Website:

www.ers.usda.gov

Key issues:

Food economics; farm economy; economic outlook for select sectors such as feed, sugar and sweeteners, rice, wheat, and oil; economic analysis of WIC.

Agency description:

The Farm Service Agency is responsible for providing economic services that promote continuation of farming and an efficient and stable market.

Website:

www.fsa.usda.gov

Key issues:

Farm loans; commodity programs; conservation efforts; disaster assistance, including crop losses.

Agency description:

The Food and Nutrition Service seeks to provide children and families in need healthy food through assistance programs.

Website:

www.fns.usda.gov

Key issues:

Community outreach to educate on nutrition; emergency food programs after disasters; food safety.

Agency description:

The Food Safety and Inspection Service monitors the safety, labeling, and packaging of commercial meat, poultry, and eggs.

Website:

www.fsis.usda.gov

Key issues:

Meat and poultry inspection programs; recalls of meat, poultry, and eggs; Food Defense Plan.

Agency description:

The Foreign Agricultural Service oversees international agricultural market development, trade negotiations, and global food security.

Website:

www.fas.usda.gov

Key issues:

International food aid; international agricultural development;

Agency description:

The Forest Service seeks to preserve and promote the diversity, productivity, and health of forests and grasslands.

Website:

www.fs.fed.us

Key issues:

Forest fire management and prevention; management of the national forest system.

Agency description:

The Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration promotes the production and marketing of agricultural products such as poultry, meat, livestock, cereals, and oilseeds.

Website:

www.gipsa.usda.gov

Key issues:

Consistent standards for the processing and sale of grains and rice; oversight of stockyard and meat packing transactions; export information related to grain and livestock.

Agency description:

The National Agricultural Statistics Service collects statistical information related to the nation’s agriculture.

Website:

www.nass.usda.gov

Key issues:

Census of Agriculture; estimates of annual crops; use of chemicals in agriculture; agricultural finance.

Agency description:

The National Institute of Food and Agriculture manages grant programs with the goal of promoting research and education about agricultural issues.

Website:

www.csrees.usda.gov

Key issues:

Land-Grant University System; health and nutrition; agricultural productivity; investing in rural communities.

Agency description:

The Natural Resources Conservation Service promotes conservation through partnerships with private landowners.

Website:

www.nrcs.usda.gov

Key issues:

Mississippi River Basin Healthy Watersheds Initiative; Great Lakes Restoration Initiative; Grazing Lands Conservation Initiative; Chesapeake Bay Watershed.

Agency description:

The Risk Management Agency provides market-based analysis of risks in the agricultural field to promote economic stability.

Website:

www.rma.usda.gov

Key issues:

Federal Crop Insurance Program.

Agency description:

Rural Development provides financial support to improve public facilities in rural areas.

Website:

www.rurdev.usda.gov

Key issues:

Loans and grants for business and coops; housing loans; utilities loans and grants.

Agency description:

The Department of Commerce (Commerce) is charged with promoting economic growth and jobs for the nation.

Website:

www.commerce.gov

Enabling Statute:

“There shall be at the seat of government an executive department to be known as the Department of Commerce, and a Secretary of Commerce, who shall be the head thereof, who shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, and whose term and tenure of office shall be like that of the heads of the other executive departments; and the provisions of title 4 of the Revised Statutes, including all amendments thereto, shall be applicable to said department. The said Secretary shall cause a seal of office to be made for the said department of such device as the President shall approve, and judicial notice shall be taken of the said seal.” 15 U.S.C. § 1501

Key issues:

Economic analysis and development; international trade; intellectual property; Census; faith-based and neighborhood partnerships; Native American affairs.

Sub-agencies:

Bureau of Economic Analysis; Bureau of Industry and Security; Bureau of the Census; Economic Development Administration; Economics and Statistics Administration; International Trade Administration; Office of Marine and Aviation Operations; Minority Business Development Agency; National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service; National Institute of Standards and Technology; National Marine Fisheries Service; National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration; National Ocean Service; National Technical Information Service; National Telecommunications and Information Administration; National Weather Service; Patent & Trademark Office

Agency description:

The Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) provides statistical information to promote a better understanding of the current status of U.S. economy.

Website:

www.bea.gov

Key issues:

Gross Domestic Product (GDP), national, state, and local; levels of personal income; balance of payments; GDP by industry.

Agency description:

The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) seeks to promote national security and achieve economic goals in foreign policy through export control, treaty compliance, and technology leadership.

Website:

www.bis.doc.gov

Key issues:

Encryption; high performance computers; multilateral exports; antiboycott efforts; Wassenaar Arrangement.

Agency description:

The Bureau of the Census collects and provides information about the population and economy.

Website:

www.census.gov

Key issues:

Population and housing census every ten years; economic census every five years; government census every five years; annual American community survey; economic indicators.

Agency description:

The Economic Development Administration promotes community economic growth with a goal of increasing the nation’s economic competitiveness overall.

Website:

www.eda.gov

Key issues:

Public works and economic development; strategic development; revolving loan fund capitalization; economic planning for local and regional groups, such as Indian Tribes; trade adjustment assistance in response to increased imports; Global Climate Change Mitigation Incentive Fund.

Agency description:

The Economics and Statistics Administration oversees the work of the Bureau of the Census, and works with BEA to provide economic analysis and reports.

Website:

www.esa.doc.gov

Key issues:

Women-owned businesses; cost of living; economic recovery following a regional disaster.

Agency description:

The International Trade Administration (ITA) promotes fair trade and international investment.

Website:

www.trade.gov

Key issues:

Market information and access; trade counseling and advocacy; business matchmaking; intellectual property and piracy; strategies for increasing U.S. exports; antidumping investigations.

Agency description:

The Office of Marine and Aviation Operations (OMAO) is an office of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) that uses specialized aircraft to collect data relevant to NOAA’s environmental and scientific research.

Website:

www.omao.noaa.gov

Key issues:

Hydrographic surveys; hurricane and weather research; coastal charting; predictions of flood and snow melt areas; fishery research; marine mammal assessments.

Agency description:

The Minority Business Development Agency promotes the establishment and growth of businesses owned minorities.

Website:

www.mbda.gov

Key issues:

Contract opportunities; strategic business consulting; access to commercial lending and credit; client assessment, market analysis, and financial management.

Agency description:

The National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS) provides global environmental data collected via satellite.

Website:

www.nesdis.noaa.gov

Key issues:

Wildlife monitoring; space commercialization; search and rescue satellite aided tracking.

Agency description:

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is a federal physical science research laboratory.

Website:

www.nist.gov

Key issues:

Calibration services; computer security; measurement services; standards development and conformity; traceability; weights and measures.

Agency description:

The National Marine Fisheries Service is the branch of NOAA responsible for the conservation of marine resources in the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone.

Website:

www.nmfs.noaa.gov

Key issues:

Sustainable aquaculture; seafood inspection; sustainable fisheries; commercial fishing.

Agency description:

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) researches changes in the oceans, weather, climate, and coastal areas to protect and conserve resources.

Website:

www.noaa.gov

Key issues:

Healthy oceans; climate change; weather; commercial fishing; coastal communities; marine mammal protection.

Agency description:

The National Ocean Service is a part of NOAA that deals with potential problems in coast areas such as port congestion, population growth, environmental contaminants, and climate change.

Website:

oceanservice.noaa.gov

Key issues:

Gulf spill restoration; coral reefs; marine protected areas; National Marine Sanctuary System; coasting monitoring; natural hazards; disaster response; ecological forecasting; tides and currents.

Agency description:

The National Technical Information Service publishes government-funded research in the areas of science, engineering, technology, and buiness.

Website:

www.ntis.gov

Key issues:

Technical reports on over 350 subject areas.

Agency description:

The National Telecommunications and Information Administration advises the President on telecommunications policy and researches technical aspects of telecommunications issues.

Website:

www.ntia.doc.gov

Key issues:

Spectrum management; infrastructure development; domestic telecommunications competition; broadband.

Agency description:

The National Weather Service is a branch of NOAA that provides warnings and forecasts of weather events.

Website:

www.nws.noaa.gov

Key issues:

Air quality; severe weather systems; TsunamiReady warning system.

Agency description:

The Patent and Trademark Office (PTO) regulates U.S. patents and registered trademarks.

Website:

www.uspto.gov

Key issues:

Applications for patents and trademarks; international protection of U.S. patents and trademarks.

Agency description:

The Department of Defense (DOD) provides military forces and advises on policy to deter war and ensure the safety of the United States.

Website:

www.defense.gov

Enabling Statute:

“The Department of Defense is an executive department of the United States. The Department is composed of the following: the Office of the Secretary of Defense; the Joint Chiefs of Staff; the Joint Staff; the Defense Agencies; Department of Defense Field Activities; the Department of the Army; the Department of the Navy; the Department of the Air Force; the unified and specified combatant commands. Such other offices, agencies, activities, and commands as may be established or designated by law or by the President.” 10 U.S.C. § 111(a)-(b)(10)

Key issues:

National security; military readiness; intelligence gathering; threat assessment.

Sub-agencies:

Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency; Defense Contract Audit Agency; Defense Contract Management Agency; Defense Finance and Accounting Service; Defense Information Systems Agency; Defense Intelligence Agency; Defense Logistics Agency; Defense Security Cooperation Agency; Defense Security Service; Defense Threat Reduction Agency; Missile Defense Agency; National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency; National Security Agency; Pentagon Force Protection Agency

Agency description:

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) strives to assist U.S. military operations through cutting-edge research.

Website:

www.darpa.mil

Key issues:

High-risk, high-payoff research; stealth technology.

Agency description:

The Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) audits, offers financial advise, and performs necessary accounting functions for DOD contracts

Website:

www.dcaa.mil

Key issues:

Contract audit services; contractor business system audits; negotiation assistance.

Agency description:

The Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) maintains contact with DOD suppliers to ensure all DOD supply needs are met on time and within the estimated cost.

Website:

www.dcma.mil

Key issues:

Quality assurance; engineering support; delivery management; software acquisition management.

Agency description:

The Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) manages payments to DOD employees, retirees, contractors, and vendors.

Website:

www.dfas.mil

Key issues:

Retroactive stop loss pay; TDY travel.

Agency description:

The Defense Information Systems Agency provides combat support and command and control assistance for military field operations.

Website:

www.disa.mil

Key issues:

Satellite communications; voice, video, and data service; Global Information Grid engineering; multinational information sharing.

Agency description:

The Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) provides foreign military intelligence information to key decisionmakers.

Website:

www.dia.mil

Key issues:

Counterintelligence; reconnaissance; military intelligence.

Agency description:

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) provides logistics support to military and civilian agencies worldwide during wartime and peacetime.

Website:

www.dla.mil

Key issues:

Storage and disposal of strategic materials; management of distribution depots.

Agency description:

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) coordinates global security efforts between the DOD, the State Department, and other agencies.

Website:

www.dsca.mil

Key issues:

Foreign military sales and financing; international military education and training; humanitarian assistance; disaster relief; mine action.

Agency description:

The Defense Security Service (DSS) provides the DOD with industrial security services and personnel.

Website:

www.dss.mil

Key issues:

Security education and training; clearing facilities, personnel and information systems; foreign ownership in cleared industries.

Agency description:

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) offers support for measures against weapons of mass destruction (WMD).

Website:

www.dtra.mil

Key issues:

Arms control; chemical and biological weapons; nuclear deterrence, defense, and forensics.

Agency description:

The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) develops and tests the Ballistic Missile Defense System.

Website:

www.mda.mil

Key issues:

Surveillance via land, water, and space; interceptor missile technology.

Agency description:

The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) uses satellite imagery to provide map-based intelligence analysis.

Website:

www.nga.mil

Key issues:

Topographical data; satellite imagery; geodesy and geophysics.

Agency description:

The National Security Agency (NSA) provides signal intelligence and information assurance services to government.

Website:

www.nsa.gov

Key issues:

Collection of foreign intelligence information via signals; preventing the interception of intelligence information by foreign governments.

Agency description:

The Pentagon Force Protection Agency is a civilian agency that protects the safety of employees and visitors at the Pentagon and its annex facilities.

Website:

www.pfpa.mil

Key issues:

Pentagon police; security services; chemical, biological, nuclear, and radiological weapons.

Agency description:

The Department of Education works to assist state and local school systems in improving education and offering equal educational opportunities for all students. The Department of Education also supports federal education programs and strives to improve the accountability of those programs to the Executive and Legislative Branches, as well as the public.

Website:

www.ed.gov

Enabling Statute:

“There is established an executive department to be known as the Department of Education. The Department shall be administered, in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, under the supervision and direction of a Secretary of Education. The Secretary shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate.” 20 U.S.C. § 3411

Key issues:

Student loans; Pell grants; No Child Left Behind (NCLB); college accreditation; special education; drug-free schools; early childhood education; elementary and secondary education; adult education.

Sub-agencies:

National Assessment Governing Board; National Center for Education Statistics

Agency description:

The National Assessment Governing Board is an independent, bipartisan group that provides objective information about student performance to policymakers.

Website:

www.nagb.org

Key issues:

National Assessment of Educational Process (NAEP), the Nation’s Report Card.

Agency description:

The National Center for Education Statistics collects and provides information about education in the United States and other countries.

Website:

nces.ed.gov

Key issues:

Early childhood education; elementary and secondary school libraries; post secondary education; adult education.

Agency description:

The Department of Energy promotes the use of science and technology to deal with energy, environmental, and nuclear issues.

Website:

www.energy.gov

Enabling Statute:

“There is established at the seat of government an executive department to be known as the Department of Energy. There shall be at the head of the Department a Secretary of Energy (hereinafter in this chapter referred to as the “Secretary”), who shall be appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. The Department shall be administered, in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, under the supervision and direction of the Secretary.” 42 U.S.C. § 7131

Key issues:

Energy efficiency; Energy Star; clean air, water, soil; climate change; coal; natural gas; oil; solar energy; renewable energy; wind energy; geothermal energy; fossil fuels; bioenergy; fusion energy; nanotechnology.

Sub-agencies:

Bonneville Power Administration; Energy Information Administration; Office of Environmental Management; Federal Energy Regulatory Commission; National Nuclear Security Administration; Office of Scientific and Technical Information; Southeastern Power Administration; Southwestern Power Administration; Western Area Power Administration

Agency description:

The Bonneville Power Administration manages the operation and sale of electricity to areas of the Pacific Northwest from the Bonneville Dam on the Columbia River.

Website:

www.bpa.gov

Key issues:

Impact on fish and wildlife; Albeni Falls Dam; overgeneration projects; I-5 corridor reinforcement; windpower.

Agency description:

The Energy Information Administration (EIA) provides independent energy information and analysis for decisionmakers.

Website:

www.eia.doe.gov

Key issues:

Shale gas; energy outlook predictions; energy consumption, production, and prices; home energy use.

Agency description:

The Office of Environmental Management manages waste management, environmental cleanup, technology development, and facilities operations related to the operation of nuclear facilities.

Website:

www.em.doe.gov

Key issues:

Nuclear cleanup; Waste Isolation Pilot Plant; Transportation Emergency Preparedness Program (TEPP) Radioactive Material Packaging (RAMPAC).

Agency description:

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission oversees hydropower projects as well as the transmission of natural gas, oil, electricity.

Website:

www.ferc.gov

Key issues:

Smart Grid; generator interconnect; dam safety.

Agency description:

The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) manages nuclear nonproliferation programs, nuclear weapons, and naval reactor programs.

Website:

www.nnsa.energy.gov

Key issues:

Emergency preparedness; prevention of proliferation of weapons of mass destruction; nuclear stockpiles; Nuclear Naval Propulsion Program.

Agency description:

The Office of Scientific and Technical Information disseminates information on scientific and technological research and development to the DOE.

Website:

www.osti.gov

Key issues:

Accelerated delivery of scientific information.

Agency description:

The Southeastern Power Administration manages hydropower operations that provide electricity to customers in Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, southern Illinois, Virginia, Tennessee, Kentucky, North Carolina, and South Carolina.

Website:

http://199.44.84.82/

Key issues:

Georgia-Alabama-South Carolina System; Kerr-Philpott System; Cumberland System; im Woodruff System.

Agency description:

The Southwestern Power Administration manages hydropower operations that provide electricity to parts of Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas.

Website:

www.swpa.gov

Key issues:

Interconnections; environmental management.

Agency description:

The Western Area Power Administration manages hydropower operations that provide electricity to fifteen western states.

Website:

www.wapa.go

Key issues:

Renewable energy; Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP); Electric Power Training Center.

Agency description:

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) provides services to protect the health of the population.

Website:

www.hhs.gov

Enabling Statute:

“The Department of Health, Education, and Welfare is hereby redesignated the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare or any other official of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare is hereby redesignated the Secretary or official, as appropriate, of Health and Human ServicesReference to Department, Secretary, etc., of Health, Education, and Welfare deemed reference to Department, Secretary, etc., of Health and Human Services

Any reference to the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, or any other official of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare in any law, rule, regulation, certificate, directive, instruction, or other official paper in force on May 4, 1980, shall be deemed to refer and apply to the Department of Health and Human Services or the Secretary of Health and Human Services, respectively, except to the extent such reference is to a function or office transferred to the Secretary or the Department under this chapter.” 20 U.S.C. § 3508

Key issues:

Healthcare for military families; Head Start; temporary assistance for needy families (TANF); Medicare; Medicaid; State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP); child abuse or neglect; abusive partners; drug abuse; diet and nutrition; vaccinations; physical activity guidelines; disease treatment and prevention; Health Information Privacy (HIPAA); public health emergency preparedness.

Sub-agencies:

Administration for Children and Families; Administration on Aging; Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality; Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services; Food and Drug Administration; Health Resources and Services Administration; Indian Health Service; National Institutes of Health; Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration

Agency description:

The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) promotes economic and social welfare.

Website:

www.acf.hhs.gov

Key issues:

Adoption and foster care; child abuse and neglect; childcare; disabilities; Head Start; Healthy Marriage Initiative; Human Trafficking; TANF; Native American programs; missing children; state social service agencies.

Agency description:

The Administration on Aging promotes the development of home and community based services to assist the elderly in maintaining their health and independence.

Website:

www.aoa.gov

Key issues:

Long-term care planning; H1N1; seasonal influenza; aging statistics; resources to check healthcare benefit programs.

Agency description:

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality researches health care services and provides information to HHS and the general public.

Website:

www.ahrq.gov

Key issues:

Comparisons of medical treatments; chronic care; women’s health; elder care; continuing education for health care providers; Telemedicine; safe care.

Agency description:

The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) is directed by Congress to make public health assessments of specific issues.

Website:

www.atsdr.cdc.gov

Key issues:

Lead; Asbestos; Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs); Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs); mercury; hazardous materials incidents; emergency response.

Agency description:

The Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) promotes the prevention and control of disease, injury, and disability.

Website:

www.cdc.gov

Key issues:

MRSA; HIV/AIDS; environmental health; motorcycle safety; traveler health; workplace safety; healthy living.

Agency description:

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services operate the Medicare and Medicaid and other government health programs.

Website:

www.cms.gov

Key issues:

Prescription drug coverage; end-stage renal disease; fraud and abuse; Medicare Advantage; Medicare Secondary Payer Recovery; Medicare contracting; Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

Agency description:

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates the safety and efficacy of human and veterinary drugs, medical devices, biologics, foods, cosmetics, and radiation emitting products.

Website:

www.fda.gov

Key issues:

Medwatch reporting of adverse events with human medical products; dietary supplements; nutrition labeling; new drug and medical device testing and approval; annual influenza vaccines; tobacco products; cigarette warning labels.

Agency description:

The Health Resources and Services Administration promotes equal access to quality health care services.

Website:

www.hrsa.gov

Key issues:

HIV/AIDS; rural health; maternal and child health; organ donation and transplant; National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program; National Health Service Corps.

Agency description:

The Indian Health Service seeks to ensure quality, culturally acceptable care for the American Indian and Native American population.

Website:

www.ihs.gov

Key issues:

Child health; dental care; Native American Cardiology Program; behavioral health.

Agency description:

The National Institutes of Health conducts and supports health research to improve human health and lessen the problems of disease and disability.

Website:

www.nih.gov

Key issues:

Stem cell research; Human Genetic Cell Repository; Mercury Free Campaign; bioethics; radiation safety.

Agency description:

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration seeks to minimize the impact of substance abuse and mental illness.

Website:

www.samhsa.gov

Key issues:

Suicide prevention; mental illness and homelessness; youth education; evaluation of substance abuse treatments; data on drug abuse and related emergencies.

Agency description:

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is tasked with protecting the nation from the threat of terrorism and enforcing the country’s immigration laws.

Website:

www.dhs.gov

Enabling Statute:

“There is established a Department of Homeland Security, as an executive department of the United States within the meaning of Title 5. The primary mission of the Department is to prevent terrorist attacks within the United States; reduce the vulnerability of the United States to terrorism; minimize the damage, and assist in the recovery, from terrorist attacks that do occur within the United States; carry out all functions of entities transferred to the Department, including by acting as a focal point regarding natural and manmade crises and emergency planning; ensure that the functions of the agencies and subdivisions within the Department that are not related directly to securing the homeland are not diminished or neglected except by a specific explicit Act of Congress; ensure that the overall economic security of the United States is not diminished by efforts, activities, and programs aimed at securing the homeland; ensure that the civil rights and civil liberties of persons are not diminished by efforts, activities, and programs aimed at securing the homeland; and monitor connections between illegal drug trafficking and terrorism, coordinate efforts to sever such connections, and otherwise contribute to efforts to interdict illegal drug trafficking. Except as specifically provided by law with respect to entities transferred to the Department under this chapter, primary responsibility for investigating and prosecuting acts of terrorism shall be vested not in the Department, but rather in Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies with jurisdiction over the acts in question.” 6 U.S.C. § 111

Key issues:

Border security; deportation; travel security; chemical security; secure identification; disaster response and recovery; cybersecurity.

Sub-agencies:

Computer Emergency Readiness Team; Federal Emergency Management Agency; Federal Law Enforcement Training Center; Transportation Security Administration; U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services; U.S. Coast Guard; U.S. Customs and Border Protection; U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement; U.S. Secret Service

Agency description:

The Computer Emergency Readiness Team provides defense against cyber attacks on government (.gov) networks.

Website:

www.us-cert.gov

Key issues:

Phishing; software updates; spyware; Trojan horse or virus recovery.

Agency description:

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) supports citizens and first responders in the event of a disaster.

Website:

www.fema.gov

Key issues:

Emergency preparedness; natural disasters; terrorism; disaster recovery.

Agency description:

The Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) provides training for law enforcement officers from federal, state, local, tribal, and international agencies.

Website:

www.fletc.gov

Key issues:

Human trafficking; counterterrorism; rural policing; driver and firearms training.

Agency description:

The Transportation Security Administration oversees security operations in the nation’s airports.

Website:

www.tsa.gov

Key issues:

Passenger screening; baggage screening; air cargo screening; civil liberties.

Agency description:

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services regulates and enforces lawful immigration procedures.

Website:

www.uscis.gov

Key issues:

Citizenship and naturalization; deportation; asylum; international adoptions; visas for employees, family members, tourists, and students.

Agency description:

The U.S. Coast Guard protects the maritime borders and security.

Website:

www.uscg.mil

Key issues:

Search and rescue; port and dock safety; credentialing merchant mariners; commercial inspections of U.S. flagged vessels.

Agency description:

U.S. Customs and Border Protection strives to prevent terrorist and weapons from entering the country, and monitors cross-border traffic to enforce the nation’s immigration and drug laws.

Website:

www.cbp.gov

Key issues:

Border patrol; border fence; human trafficking; cargo security; airport security.

Agency description:

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is an investigative agency charged with criminal and civil enforcement of laws related to immigration, border control, trade, and customs.

Website:

www.ice.gov

Key issues:

Human smuggling and trafficking; identify fraud; worksite enforcement; narcotics enforcement; firearms smuggling; alien detention; deportation.

Agency description:

The Secret Service protects that nation’s leaders as well as the financial infrastructure of the country.

Website:

www.secretservice.gov

Key issues:

Counterfeiting; most wanted fugitives; Presidential security.

Agency description:

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) promotes sustainable communities with quality affordable homes for everyone by strengthening the housing market, protecting consumers, and encouraging discrimination-free communities.

Website:

www.hud.gov

Enabling Statute:

“There is hereby established at the seat of government an executive department to be known as the Department of Housing and Urban Development (hereinafter referred to as the “Department”). There shall be at the head of the Department a Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (hereinafter referred to as the “Secretary”), who shall be appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. The Department shall be administered under the supervision and direction of the Secretary.” 45 U.S.C. § 3532(a)

Key issues:

Avoiding foreclosure; purchasing a home; home improvements; Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8); housing discrimination; fair lending.

Sub-agencies:

Government National Mortgage Association; Federal Housing Administration; Fair Housing Finance Agency

Agency description:

The Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae) guarantees payments of principal and interest on mortgage-backed securities, primarily on loans insured by the Federal Housing Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, the Rural Housing Service, or the Office of Public and Indian Housing.

Website:

www.ginniemae.gov

Key issues:

Mortgage securities; Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduits (REMICs).

Agency description:

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) provides mortgage insurance on single family homes, multifamily homes, manufactured homes, and hospitals.

Website:

www.fha.gov

Key issues:

Fair housing; homebuying programs; avoiding foreclosure.

Agency description:

The Fair Housing Finance Agency oversees Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and Federal Home Loan Banks to ensure sound financial efforts in the home loan market.

Website:

www.fhfa.gov

Key issues:

Housing market changes; home mortgages; stability in the mortgage market.

Agency description:

The Department of Justice enforces the laws of the United States and serves as legal counsel to defend and advise the President and the heads of executive agencies in accordance with the law.

Website:

www.justice.gov

Enabling Statute:

“The Department of Justice is an executive department of the United States at the seat of Government.” 28 U.S.C. § 501

“The President shall appoint, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, an Attorney General of the United States. The Attorney General is the head of the Department of Justice.” 28 U.S.C. § 503

Key issues:

Health care reform; counterterrorism; hate crimes; drug trafficking; Guantanamo Bay detainees; civil rights violations; Deep Water Horizon oil spill; fraud; antitrust.

Sub-agencies:

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; Community Oriented Policing Services; Drug Enforcement Administration; Federal Bureau of Investigation; Federal Bureau of Prisons; Office of Justice Programs; U.S. Marshals Service; U.S. National Central Bureau of Interpol; U.S. Trustee Program

Agency description:

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives is a law enforcement agency that focuses on violent crimes and criminal organizations, terrorism, the storage and illegal use of explosives and firearms, and the illegal transport or sale of alcohol and tobacco products.

Website:

www.atf.gov

Key issues:

Gang violence; drug cartels and drug trafficking; organized crime; arms trafficking; terrorism; bombings.

Agency description:

Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) provides information and grants to state, local, and tribal police agencies.

Website:

www.cops.usdoj.gov

Key issues:

Methamphetamine initiative; school security; tribal assistance; child sexual predators.

Agency description:

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) enforces laws related to controlled substances.

Website:

www.justice.gov/dea/

Key issues:

Drug trafficking; illegal sale of prescription drugs; cleanup of clandestine drug labs.

Agency description:

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is charged with protecting the nation against terrorist and foreign intelligence threats within its borders and enforcing federal criminal laws.

Website:

www.fbi.gov

Key issues:

Most wanted fugitives and terrorists lists; kidnappings; missing persons; parental kidnappings; white collar crimes such as money laundering, wire fraud, mail fraud, mortgage fraud.

Agency description:

The Federal Bureau of Prisons manages the operation of federal prisons.

Website:

www.bop.gov

Key issues:

Corrections programs; federal executions; security.

Agency description:

The Office of Justice Programs provides information and strategies for effective law enforcement methods to federal, state, local, and tribal justice agencies.

Website:

www.ojp.usdoj.gov

Key issues:

Juvenile justice; tribal law enforcement; sex offender management in corrections facilities; substance abuse; crime fighting technology.

Agency description:

The U.S. Marshals Service is the oldest federal law enforcement agency; it serves as the enforcement branch of the federal court system.

Website:

www.usmarshals.gov

Key issues:

Fugitive investigations; federal arrest warrants; Witness Security Program.

Agency description:

The U.S. National Central Bureau of Interpol is the nation’s representative to the International Criminal Police Organization, INTERPOL.

Website:

www.justice.gov/usncb/

Key issues:

Drug investigations; alien/fugitive investigations; financial fraud; stolen antiquities; human trafficking.

Agency description:

The U.S. Trustee Program administers bankruptcy cases and private trustees.

Website:

www.justice.gov/ust

Key issues:

Bankruptcy; credit-counseling.

Agency description:

The Department of Labor oversees the development and welfare of employees and retirees, as well as working conditions and worker rights and benefits.

Website:

www.dol.gov

Enabling Statute:

“There shall be an executive department in the Government to be called the Department of Labor, with a Secretary of Labor, who shall be the head thereof, to be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, and whose tenure of office shall be like that of the heads of the other executive departments. The provisions of title 4 of the Revised Statutes, including all amendments thereto, shall be applicable to said department. The purpose of the Department of Labor shall be to foster, promote, and develop the welfare of the wage earners of the United States, to improve their working conditions, and to advance their opportunities for profitable employment. The said Secretary shall cause a seal of office to be made for the said department of such device as the President shall approve and judicial notice shall be taken of the said seal.” 29 U.S.C. § 551

Key issues:

Wages; unemployment insurance; health coverage; disability rights; work hours; workers’ compensation; termination; leave benefits; affirmative action; retirement plans.

Sub-agencies:

Bureau of International Labor Affairs; Bureau of Labor Statistics; Employee Benefits Security Administration; Employment and Training Administration; Mine Safety and Health Administration; Occupational Safety and Health Administration; Veterans’ Employment and Training Services

Agency description:

The Bureau of International Labor Affairs seeks to improve work conditions and protect worker rights worldwide.

Website:

www.dol.gov/ilab/

Key issues:

Child labor; forced labor; human trafficking.

Agency description:

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) measures and provides data about labor market activity.

Website:

stats.bls.gov

Key issues:

Inflation; consumer price index; employment costs; national compensation data; national unemployment rate; labor productivity and cost; workplace injuries

Agency description:

The Employee Benefits Security Administration regulates employee welfare benefits such as retirement and health care plans.

Website:

www.dol.gov/ebsa

Key issues:

Health care reform; COBRA plans; pension plans; ERISA.

Agency description:

The Employment Training Administration oversees job training programs, worker dislocation programs, grants for public service employment at the state level, and unemployment insurance.

Website:

www.doleta.gov

Key issues:

Tax credits and incentives for businesses; community-based job training; job skills training; veterans’ employment.

Agency description:

The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) aims to protect miners from workplace-related death, disease, and injury.

Website:

www.msha.gov

Key issues:

Asbestos; mining accidents; black lung; miner’s rights; dust control; diesel equipment safety.

Agency description:

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulates safe working conditions.

Website:

www.osha.gov

Key issues:

Workplace inspections; construction industry safety; manufacturing industry safety.

Agency description:

Veterans’ Employment and Training Services provides training and employment assistance for the nation’s veterans.

Website:

www.dol.gov/vets/

Key issues:

Transition services; veterans’ preference; e-VETS Resource Advisor.

Agency description:

The Department of State (DOS) represents United States’ interests abroad and advises policymakers on issues of international diplomacy.

Website:

www.state.gov

Enabling Statute:

“There shall be at the seat of government an executive department to be known as the “Department of State”, and a Secretary of State, who shall be the head thereof.” 22 U.S.C. § 2651

Key issues:

Energy; climate change; arms control; human trafficking; terrorism; drug trafficking; international aid and development; nonproliferation.

Agency description:

The Department of the Interior (Interior) oversees the protection of natural and cultural resources, and regulates aspects of energy policy.

Website:

www.doi.gov

Enabling Statute:

“There shall be at the seat of government an executive department to be known as the Department of the Interior, and a Secretary of the Interior, who shall be the head thereof.” 43 U.S.C. § 1451

Key issues:

Climate change; land conservation; renewable energy; clean-energy; Native American communities; water management.

Sub-agencies:

Bureau of Indian Affairs; Bureau of Land Management; Bureau of Reclamation; Fish and Wildlife Service; U.S. Geological Survey; Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation and Enforcement; National Interagency Fire Center; National Park Service; Office of Surface Mining, Reclamation, and Enforcement

Agency description:

The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) manages land and sub-surface minerals held in trust for Native American and Alaska Native tribes.

Website:

www.bia.gov

Key issues:

Energy and economic development; education; self-governance; land consolidation.

Agency description:

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) oversees the management of a variety of natural resources

Website:

www.blm.gov

Key issues:

Abandoned mines; filming on public lands; noxious weeds; rights-of-way; cultural and paleontological sites.

Agency description:

The Bureau of Reclamation constructed dams in the western United States and is the largest provider of water.

Website:

www.usbr.gov

Key issues:

Dam safety; drought management; hydropower operation and research; irrigation; rural water supply; water conservation.

Agency description:

The Fish and Wildlife Service oversees the conservation and protection of fish and wildlife.

Website:

www.fws.gov

Key issues:

Fire management; hunting; fisheries; invasive species; migratory birds; permits.

Agency description:

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is a scientific agency that provides information about ecosystems, the environment, natural resources, and natural hazards.

Website:

www.usgs.gov

Key issues:

Maps and aerial photographs; earthquakes; tsunamis; volcanoes; floods; landslides.

Agency description:

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation and Enforcement oversees energy resources on the Outer Continental Shelf.

Website:

www.boemre.gov

Key issues:

Deep Water Horizon oil spill; off-shore drilling; off-shore wind energy.

Agency description:

The National Interagency Fire Center manages logistical support for major fire events.

Website:

www.nifc.gov

Key issues:

Forest fires; brush fires; fire prevention and education; fire shelters.

Agency description:

The National Park Service manages federally-owned parks around the nation.

Website:

www.nps.gov

Key issues:

Tourism; education; conservation.

Agency description:

The Office of Surface Mining, Reclamation, and Enforcement regulates the adverse effects of coal mining.

Website:

www.osmre.gov

Key issues:

Reclamation of abandoned mines; dam safety; reforestation.

Agency description:

The Department of the Treasury (Treasury) is charged with maintaining a strong economy, protecting the financial system, and managing government resources and finances.

Website:

www.treasury.gov

Enabling Statute:

“The Department of the Treasury is an executive department of the United States Government at the seat of the Government. The head of the Department is the Secretary of the Treasury. The Secretary is appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate.” 31 U.S.C. § 301(a)-(b)

Key issues:

Wall Street reform; debt limit; mortgage reform; funding of terrorism; economic policy; financial education; tax policy.

Sub-agencies:

Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau; Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection; Bureau of Engraving and Printing; Bureau of Public Debt; Financial Management Service; Internal Revenue Service; Office of the Comptroller of the Currency; Office of Thrift Supervision; U.S. Mint

Agency description:

The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) collects taxes on alcohol, tobacco, firearms, and ammunition, as well as overseeing the proper labeling and advertisement of such products.

Website:

www.ttb.gov

Key issues:

Alcoholic beverage advertising on television and in print; tobacco advertising; the manufacture and importation of firearms.

Agency description:

The Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection oversees the operation of banks and financial institutions with the goal of protecting consumers deceptive or abusive practices.

Website:

www.consumerfinance.gov

Key issues:

Consumer complaints; deceptive mortgage practices; unexpected bank fees; financial education; budgeting; credit counseling; student loan education.

Agency description:

The Bureau of Engraving and Printing manages the design and production of U.S. currency.

Website:

www.bep.treas.gov

Key issues:

Counterfeiting; damaged currency.

Agency description:

The Bureau of Public Debt borrows money for the operation of the federal government and does the accounting for that debt.

Website:

www.publicdebt.treas.gov

Key issues:

National debt calculation; interest rates; public debt reports.

Agency description:

The Financial Management Service oversees the payment and collection of funds to and from federal program agencies and provides and accounting of money owed.

Website:

www.fms.treas.gov

Key issues:

Debt management; cash management tools.

Agency description:

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) administers federal tax laws and ensures the correct and prompt payment of federal taxes by individuals and businesses.

Website:

www.irs.gov

Key issues:

Tax fraud; tax shelters; tax evasion; online filings.

Agency description:

The Office of the Comptroller of Currency regulates all nation banks as well as federal branches and agencies of foreign banks.

Website:

www.occ.gov

Key issues:

Money laundering; Bank Information Technology (BIT); foreclosure prevention; Truth in Lending.

Agency description:

The Office of Thrift Supervision manages the availability of affordable home financing.

Website:

www.ots.treas.gov

Key issues:

Community Reinvestment Act; reverse mortgages; interest rate risk.

Agency description:

The U.S. Mint oversees the creation and sale of U.S. coinage and assets.

Website:

www.usmint.gov

Key issues:

Coin production; public education; commemorative coins.

Agency description:

The Department of Transportation (DOT) oversees the implementation and operation of safe, efficient, accessible transportation systems across the nation.

Website:

www.dot.gov

Enabling Statute:

“The Department of Transportation is an executive department of the United States Government at the seat of Government. The head of the Department is the Secretary of Transportation. The Secretary is appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate.” 49 U.S.C. § 102(a)-(b)

Key issues:

Distracted driving; air passenger consumer protection; truck driver hours of service; high speed rail; light rail; fuel efficiency; highway construction.

Sub-agencies:

Bureau of Transportation Statistics; Federal Aviation Administration; Federal Highway Administration; Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration; Federal Railroad Administration; Federal Transit Administration; Maritime Administration; National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration; Research and Innovative Technology Administration; Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation; Surface Transportation Board

Agency description:

The Bureau of Transportation Statistics provides objective data and research on the nation’s transportation industry.

Website:

www.bts.gov

Key issues:

Airline traffic data; airfare information; air travel on time data; maritime trade and transportation; household travel information; bridge data.

Agency description:

The Federal Aviation Administration regulates air craft operation and air travel.

Website:

www.faa.gov

Key issues:

Air traffic safety; aircraft security; airport safety; pilot and air traffic controller fatigue.

Agency description:

The Federal Highway Administration oversees the design, construction, and maintenance of the highway system.

Website:

www.fhwa.dot.gov

Key issues:

Highway funding; congestion management; road and bridge safety; construction safety.

Agency description:

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates the nation’s trucking industry and the interstate operation of commercial motor vehicles.

Website:

www.fmcsa.dot.gov

Key issues:

Texting ban; fatigue; hours of service regulations; drug and alcohol testing; cross-border trucking programs; bus safety.

Agency description:

The Federal Railroad Administration regulates the railroad industry.

Website:

www.fra.dot.gov

Key issues:

Railroad freight; Amtrak; high speed rail; tank care safety.

Agency description:

The Federal Transit Administration regulates the operation of public transit.

Website:

www.fta.dot.gov

Key issues:

Metropolitan planning; clean fuels; grants to fund safety improvements.

Agency description:

The Maritime Administration oversees the maintenance of merchant marines to assist in maritime commerce and auxiliary military services during times of war.

Website:

www.marad.dot.gov

Key issues:

Ship disposal; United States Merchant Marine; port and cargo security.

Agency description:

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) regulates the safety of highways and vehicles.

Website:

www.nhtsa.gov

Key issues:

Automobile recalls; distracted driving; aggressive driving; motorcycle safety; bicycle road safety; child seats; crash avoidance; crashworthiness.

Agency description:

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration manages the safe transportation of hazardous materials.

Website:

www.phmsa.dot.gov

Key issues:

Hazmat labeling; pipeline security.

Agency description:

The Research and Innovative Technology Administration (RITA) manages DOT’s research and education programs.

Website:

www.rita.dot.gov

Key issues:

Distracted driving initiatives; airline passenger consumer protection; crash fatality rates.

Agency description:

The Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation operates the Saint Lawrence Seaway between Lake Erie and the Port of Montreal.

Website:

www.seaway.dot.gov

Key issues:

Seaway security; recreational boating safety.

Agency description:

The Surface Transportation Board deals with railroad rate and service disputes.

Website:

www.stb.dot.gov

Key issues:

Competition in the rail industry; mitigating environmental hazards.

Agency description:

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) oversees benefits and services for the nation’s veterans

Website:

www.va.gov

Enabling Statute:

“The Department of Veterans Affairs is an executive department of the United States. The purpose of the Department is to administer the laws providing benefits and other services to veterans and the dependents and the beneficiaries of veterans.” 38 U.S.C. § 301(a)-(b)

Key issues:

Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); health care; life insurance; pensions; transition assistance; burials and memorials; the Reserve and National Guard.

Sub-agencies:

National Cemetery Administration; Veterans Benefits Administration; Veterans Health Administration

Agency description:

The National Cemetery Administration oversees burials and memorials for veterans.

Website:

www.cem.va.gov

Key issues:

Military funerals; Presidential Memorial Certificates.

Agency description:

The Veterans Benefits Administration manages benefits for veterans, including life insurance and pensions.

Website:

www.vba.va.gov

Key issues:

Vocational rehabilitation; affordable home loans; GI Bill.

Agency description:

The Veterans Health Administration manages health care and services for veterans.

Website:

www.va.gov/health

Key issues:

Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); women’s health; bereavement counseling; Resources for Enhancing Alzheimer's Caregiver Health (REACH).

Agency description:

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) monitors the safety of consumer products that may pose risk of injury or death to adults or children. Consumers can report potentially dangerous products on the CPSC website.

Website:

www.cpsc.gov

Enabling Statute:

“An independent regulatory commission is hereby established, to be known as the Consumer Product Safety Commission, consisting of five Commissioners who shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. In making such appointments, the President shall consider individuals who, by reason of their background and expertise in areas related to consumer products and protection of the public from risks to safety, are qualified to serve as members of the Commission. The Chairman shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, from among the members of the Commission. An individual may be appointed as a member of the Commission and as Chairman at the same time. Any member of the Commission may be removed by the President for neglect of duty or malfeasance in office but for no other cause.” 15 U.S.C. § 2053(a)

Key issues:

Children’s products such as toys, cribs; construction products such as Chinese drywall; outdoor products such as all-terrain vehicles, garden equipment; household products such as appliances, cellular phones; sports and recreation products such as bicycles, motorcycle helmets; and specialty products such as soda machines, emergency exit signs.

Agency description:

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates environmental quality and strives to protect human health from environmental dangers.

Website:

www.epa.gov

Enabling Statute:

“The purposes of this chapter are: To declare a national policy which will encourage productive and enjoyable harmony between man and his environment; to promote efforts which will prevent or eliminate damage to the environment and biosphere and stimulate the health and welfare of man; to enrich the understanding of the ecological systems and natural resources important to the Nation; and to establish a Council on Environmental Quality.” 42 U.S.C. § 4321

Key issues:

Clean water, clean air, climate change, hazardous waste cleanup, lead contamination, pesticides, asbestos, radon exposure, recycling.

Agency description:

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces laws the prohibit employment discrimination based on age, disability, race, national origin, sex, religion, or genetic information.

Website:

www.eeoc.gov

Enabling Statute:

“There is hereby created a Commission to be known as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, which shall be composed of five members, not more than three of whom shall be members of the same political party. Members of the Commission shall be appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate for a term of five years. Any individual chosen to fill a vacancy shall be appointed only for the unexpired term of the member whom he shall succeed, and all members of the Commission shall continue to serve until their successors are appointed and qualified, except that no such member of the Commission shall continue to serve (1) for more than sixty days when the Congress is in session unless a nomination to fill such vacancy shall have been submitted to the Senate, or (2) after the adjournment sine die of the session of the Senate in which such nomination was submitted. The President shall designate one member to serve as Chairman of the Commission, and one member to serve as Vice Chairman. The Chairman shall be responsible on behalf of the Commission for the administrative operations of the Commission, and, except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, shall appoint, in accordance with the provisions of Title 5 governing appointments in the competitive service, such officers, agents, attorneys, administrative law judges, and employees as he deems necessary to assist it in the performance of its functions and to fix their compensation in accordance with the provisions of chapter 51 and subchapter III of chapter 53 of Title 5, relating to classification and General Schedule pay rates: Provided, That assignment, removal, and compensation of administrative law judges shall be in accordance with sections 3105, 3344, 5372, and 7521 of Title 5.” 42 U.S.C. § 2000e-4(a)

Key issues:

Employment discrimination, sexual harassment, retaliation against employees, employer and employee training.

Agency description:

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulates satellite, television, radio, cable, and wire communication.

Website:

www.fcc.gov

Enabling Statute:

“If any railroad or telegraph company referred to in section 9 of this title, or company operating such railroad or telegraph line shall refuse or fail, in whole or in part, to maintain, and operate a telegraph line as provided herein, for the use of the Government or the public, for commercial and other purposes, without discrimination, or shall refuse or fail to make or continue such arrangements for the interchange of business with any connecting telegraph company, then any person, company, corporation, or connecting telegraph company may apply for relief to the Federal Communications Commission, whose duty it shall thereupon be, under such rules and regulations as said Commission may prescribe, to ascertain the facts, and determine and order what arrangement is proper to be made in the particular case, and the railroad or telegraph company concerned shall abide by and perform such order; and it shall be the duty of the Federal Communications Commission, when such determination and order are made, to notify the parties concerned, and, if necessary, enforce the same by writ of mandamus in the courts of the United States, in the name of the United States, at the relation of either of said communication commissioners. The commissioners may institute any inquiry, upon their own motion, in the same manner and to the same effect as though complaint had been made.” 47 U.S.C. § 11

Key issues:

Wireless phone competition; broadband internet; internet competition; rural telecommunications; voice over internet protocol (VoIP); hurricane emergency information; wireless local number portability; National Do-Not-Call Registry; digital television transition.

Agency description:

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) regulates financial stability through its management of insured deposits, receivership, consumer protection, and its supervision of financial institutions.

Website:

www.fdic.gov

Enabling Statute:

“There is hereby established a Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (hereinafter referred to as the "Corporation") which shall insure, as hereinafter provided, the deposits of all banks and savings associations which are entitled to the benefits of insurance under this chapter, and which shall have the powers hereinafter granted.” 12 U.S.C. § 1811(a)

Key issues:

Bank examinations, Call Reports and Thrift Reports of financial institutions, fair credit reporting, home mortgage disclosure, truth in lending, electronic fund transfers, equal credit opportunity.

Agency description:

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) monitors a broad range of industries with the goal of promoting consumer protection and fair competition.

Website:

www.ftc.gov

Enabling Statute:

“A commission is created and established, to be known as the Federal Trade Commission (hereinafter referred to as the Commission), which shall be composed of five Commissioners, who shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Not more than three of the Commissioners shall be members of the same political party. The first Commissioners appointed shall continue in office for terms of three, four, five, six, and seven years, respectively, from September 26, 1914, the term of each to be designated by the President, but their successors shall be appointed for terms of seven years, except that any person chosen to fill a vacancy shall be appointed only for the unexpired term of the Commissioner whom he shall succeed: Provided, however, That upon the expiration of his term of office a Commissioner shall continue to serve until his successor shall have been appointed and shall have qualified. The President shall choose a chairman from the Commission's membership. No Commissioner shall engage in any other business, vocation, or employment. Any Commissioner may be removed by the President for inefficiency, neglect of duty, or malfeasance in office. A vacancy in the Commission shall not impair the right of the remaining Commissioners to exercise all the powers of the Commission.” 15 U.S.C. § 41

Key issues:

Competition in oil and gas, technology, healthcare, and real estate; corporate mergers; medical identity theft; energy guide labels.

Agency description:

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) oversees the operation of nuclear power facilities and the use of nuclear materials.

Website:

www.nrc.gov

Enabling Statute:

“There is established an independent regulatory commission to be known as the Nuclear Regulatory Commission which shall be composed of five members, each of whom shall be a citizen of the United States. The President shall designate one member of the Commission as Chairman thereof to serve as such during the pleasure of the President. The Chairman may from time to time designate any other member of the Commission as Acting Chairman to act in the place and stead of the Chairman during his absence. The Chairman (or the Acting Chairman in the absence of the Chairman) shall preside at all meetings of the Commission and a quorum for the transaction of business shall consist of at least three members present. Each member of the Commission, including the Chairman, shall have equal responsibility and authority in all decisions and actions of the Commission, shall have full access to all information relating to the performance of his duties or responsibilities, and shall have one vote. Action of the Commission shall be determined by a majority vote of the members present. The Chairman (or Acting Chairman in the absence of the Chairman) shall be the official spokesman of the Commission in its relations with the Congress, Government agencies, persons, or the public, and, on behalf of the Commission, shall see to the faithful execution of the policies and decisions of the Commission, and shall report thereon to the Commission from time to time or as the Commission may direct. The Commission shall have an official seal which shall be judicially noticed.” 42 U.S.C. § 5841(a)(1)

Key issues:

Nuclear reactors; medical, veterinary, and industrial uses of nuclear material; uranium recovery; disposal of radioactive waste; nuclear security.

Agency description:

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regulates investments with the goal of protecting investors and ensuring a fair and efficient market.

Website:

www.sec.gov

Enabling Statute:

“There is hereby established a Securities and Exchange Commission (hereinafter referred to as the “Commission”) to be composed of five commissioners to be appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Not more than three of such commissioners shall be members of the same political party, and in making appointments members of different political parties shall be appointed alternately as nearly as may be practicable. No commissioner shall engage in any other business, vocation, or employment than that of serving as commissioner, nor shall any commissioner participate, directly or indirectly, in any stock-market operations or transactions of a character subject to regulation by the Commission pursuant to this chapter. Each commissioner shall hold office for a term of five years and until his successor is appointed and has qualified, except that he shall not so continue to serve beyond the expiration of the next session of Congress subsequent to the expiration of said fixed term of office, and except (1) any commissioner appointed to fill a vacancy occurring prior to the expiration of the term for which his predecessor was appointed shall be appointed for the remainder of such term, and (2) the terms of office of the commissioners first taking office after June 6, 1934, shall expire as designated by the President at the time of nomination, one at the end of one year, one at the end of two years, one at the end of three years, one at the end of four years, and one at the end of five years, after June 6, 1934.” 15 U.S.C. § 78d(a)

Key issues:

Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform Act and Consumer Protection Act; proxy materials; mergers and acquisitions; financial integrity of broker-dealers; misrepresentation or omission of material information about securities; insider trading; analysis of systemic market risk.