Congressional Briefing for the Forest Service

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

In addition to a comprehensive look at congressional processes and organization, participants will receive specifically tailored briefings on the current status and insider analysis of legislative issues of most interest and importance to officials of the Forest Service.

Topics may 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 Forest Service 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 USDA Forest Service

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