Legal Definitions - reference committee

A reference committee is a subordinate group to which a deliberative assembly or organization refers business for consideration, investigation, oversight, or action. It is a committee that helps the main group to handle its work efficiently without wasting time and effort on unmeritorious submissions.

For example, a convention may establish a resolutions committee, also known as a reference committee or screening committee, to screen the original main motions offered for consideration. The committee will then recommend which motions should be adopted, amended, or rejected by the convention.

Another example is a legislative committee, which is a group of legislators appointed to help a legislature conduct its business, especially by providing careful consideration of proposals for new legislation within a particular field. The committee will then prepare favored measures for passage by the entire body.

In summary, a reference committee is a group that assists a larger organization or assembly in handling its business efficiently and effectively.