WASHINGTON, Feb. 4 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) has been appointed to the Joint Economic Committee of Congress, a select panel made up of members from both houses of Congress. 

The committee is composed of 10 members each from the Senate and the House of Representatives.  It was established by the Employment Act of 1946 to make a continuing study of matters relating to the U.S. economy.  The committee holds hearings, performs research and advises members of Congress.
 
“At a time when unemployment is high and the middle class is struggling, it’s imperative that we develop economic policies that grow the economy, create good paying jobs, and lower the poverty rate.  Membership on the JEC will give me an opportunity to play a role in that process,” said Sanders.

The senator also sits on the Senate Environment and Public Works; Energy and Natural Resources; Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions; Budget; and Veterans committees.  He is chairman on the Green Jobs and the New Economy Subcommittee.