Congress and Homeland Security

This 4-day course conducted on Capitol Hill provides a first-hand understanding not only of congressional process and procedure, but also the “culture” that is the United States Congress. It is designed for personnel from the Department of Homeland Security, as well as individuals from any other department, agency or organization with an interest in Congress and homeland security issues.  The purpose of the course is to increase participants’ understanding of Congress’s role in the oversight of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), as well as in Congress’s interactions with other departments and agencies with respect to issues of homeland security.

Over the course of the class participants can expect to hear from a mix of GAI’s expert faculty, former and current congressional staff, political scientists, elections experts, outside interests, news media, and even Members of Congress.

Topics typically include:

• Leadership and organization in Congress
• Key stages in the authorization process
• The budget and appropriations process
• Congressional committees and floor procedures
• The roles of committee and personal staff
• Congressional oversight of the executive branch
• The relationship between the media and Congress
• The role of special interests in policy formulation
• The role of the DHS Office of Legislative Affairs

Participants will also attend committee hearings and/or observe floor action when Congress is in session.

Target Audience:

Employees of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security or other agencies with an interest in homeland security

Meets OPM’s Executive Core Qualifications 1, 4, and 5