WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady (R-TX) announced the release of the 2016 version of the Ways and Means Green Book, which is officially titled “Background Material and Data on the Programs within the Jurisdiction of the Committee on Ways and Means.” This document, prepared by the Congressional Research Service (CRS) under the direction of the staff of the Ways and Means Committee, has served as an important reference for legislators, program administrators, researchers, and the public since it was first published in 1981.  

Upon releasing the document, Chairman Brady said: 

“I am pleased to announce the release of the 2016 Ways and Means Green Book. This publication provides timely data to policymakers, researchers, and the public. This edition also provides information on changes to Trade Adjustment Assistance and other critical programs under the Committee’s jurisdiction. I would like to thank all of the hardworking individuals at the Congressional Research Service who contributed to this latest version of the Green Book.”  

Background:

The Green Book combines a description of key health, welfare, retirement, disability, and related programs under the jurisdiction of the Committee on Ways and Means with current data on these programs, the individuals they serve, and relevant historical information. It also contains data and discussion on cross-cutting matters of interest to the Committee, including federal policy affecting low-income households, noncitizen eligibility for federal benefit programs, and social welfare programs in the U.S. territories. 

The latest version of the Green Book, consistent with recent practice, is available only electronically. Similar to the 2011, 2012, and 2014 Green Books, the 2016 Green Book uses CRS reports made available specifically for this purpose, as well as the continuation of certain charts, graphs and tables that users of prior Green Books have found especially useful. This format has allowed these recent Green Books to be available on a more frequent basis, significantly increasing its utility for readers. Readers accessing the 2016 Green Book on the Ways and Means website will also be able to readily access electronic versions of the 1994, 1996, 1998, 2000, 2004, 2008, 2011, 2012 and 2014 editions of the Green Book. Click here to access the 2016 Green Book.