Definition: The House Committee on Foreign Affairs oversees legislation and budgetary matters related to the international relations of the United States. Unlike the U.S. Senate, the U.S. House of Representatives has no constitutional role in approving treaties or diplomatic appointments, thereby limiting the scope of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.
The committee, one of the oldest in the House, typically has 40 to 50 members split proportionately between political parties. Members form a variety of subcommittees covering various regions of the world (such as Africa and Europe) and functional issues (such as international organizations and terrorism).
Also Known As: House Foreign Affairs Committee, House Committee on International Relations