Local Legislators' Toolkit - The Sangguniang Panlalawigan ng ...

Tool 2Guide Questions for Organizing Sanggunian CommitteesRules pertaining to committees must be defined in the Internal Rules of Procedure to ensurean efficient and responsive legislative process. <strong>The</strong> following questions can help thesanggunian determine the structure, composition, function, size and responsibilities of itscommittees.1) How many committees does the sanggunian need?2) What are the areas of legislative concern of the sanggunian?3) What are the powers and responsibilities of each standing committee?4) How many members including the chair and vice chair should each committee have?5) What are the duties of a committee chair? Of a committee vice chair? Of committeemembers?6) What is the basis for selecting the chair of the committee? Should the body elect thechair? Should the Presiding Officer appoint the chair?7) What are the duties and responsibilities of committee members? What sanctionsshould apply to committee members who do not perform their duties?8) How often should the committees meet? How often should committee hearings beheld? Where should committees meet?9) When should committee reports be submitted? Should committees be discharged toreport out measures referred to it after a specified period for study has lapsed?10) How can committees ensure the attendance and active participation of civil societyorganizations in committee hearings? Are committee meetings and committeehearings sufficient to get the participation of civil society in the legislative process?65