CRS

At the Congressional Research Service (CRS), we are at the forefront of public policy innovation, serving as the nation's premier think tank for the United States Congress. For over a century, our mission has been to provide the legislative branch with objective, nonpartisan, and authoritative research and analysis, empowering lawmakers to make informed decisions on the complex challenges facing the country and the world. Through our groundbreaking work, we are revolutionizing how policy is developed by ensuring that the nation's best thinking and most rigorous analysis are directly integrated into the legislative process. Our team of approximately 600 experts—including lawyers, economists, scientists, and historians—operates within the Library of Congress, tackling a vast spectrum of issues from emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and cybersecurity to foundational pillars of governance such as economic policy, foreign affairs, and constitutional law. We don't just report on the present; we anticipate the future, providing Congress with the critical foresight needed to navigate an ever-changing global landscape.

The core of our innovative approach lies in our commitment to comprehensive, multi-disciplinary analysis. We harness cutting-edge research methodologies and technologies to dissect complex topics, presenting clear, actionable insights for Members of Congress and their committees. Whether it's through in-depth reports, confidential memoranda, or direct consultations, CRS provides a continuous, confidential dialogue with lawmakers at every stage of the legislative process. This unique role allows us to support the development of sound, evidence-based policy that stands the test of time. Since 1914, we have been a steadfast, confidential advisor, adapting and evolving to meet the growing informational demands of Congress. By making our non-confidential reports publicly accessible via crsreports.congress.gov, we also contribute to a more informed public, fostering a deeper understanding of the critical issues that shape our nation's path forward. At CRS, we are dedicated to fueling a more effective and knowledgeable legislature through relentless inquiry and intellectual rigor.