Government articles
How much debt does the US have?
The US has $39.1T in debt as of March 2026. The federal government borrows money when its spending and investments cannot be funded by federal revenue alone; this debt enables the government to pay for programs and services when funds aren’t immediately available.
What does the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) do?
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is a subdivision of the Department of Agriculture responsible for helping farmers and landowners conserve natural resources. It was established in 1935.
What does the Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education (OCTAE) do?
The Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education (OCTAE) is a subdivision of the US Department of Education responsible for administering and overseeing programs that prepare individuals for postsecondary education and the workforce. OCTAE focuses on improving career and technical education, adult education, and literacy, ensuring that all students and adults have the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in a global economy. It was established in 1966.
What does the Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO) do?
The Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO) is a subdivision of the Department of Housing and Urban Development responsible for enforcing federal laws that prohibit discrimination in housing. The agency ensures equal access to housing and promotes inclusive communities through the administration of fair housing laws, public education, and outreach. It also investigates complaints of housing discrimination and works to eliminate discriminatory practices. It was established in 1968.
What does the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) do?
The Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) is a subdivision of the Department of the Interior responsible for providing quality education opportunities from early childhood through life in accordance with a tribe's needs for cultural and economic well-being. It was established in 2006.
What does the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) do?
The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is a subdivision of the Department of Commerce responsible for advancing US national security, foreign policy, and economic objectives by ensuring an effective export control and treaty compliance system. The agency controls which sensitive goods and technologies can be sold or shared abroad. It makes sure companies follow international arms control rules and works to stop the spread of weapons of mass destruction. It was established in it's current form in 2002. Prior to then, it was known as the Bureau of Export Administration.
What does the Farm Credit System Insurance Corporation (FCSIC) do?
The Farm Credit System Insurance Corporation (FCSIC) is a subdivision of the Farm Credit Administration responsible for ensuring the timely payment of principal and interest on insured notes, bonds, and other obligations issued by the Farm Credit System banks. The agency manages the Farm Credit Insurance Fund, which is used to protect investors in Farm Credit System debt securities. It was established in 1988.
What does the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) do?
The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is a subdivision of the Department of Agriculture responsible for executing the strategic marketing of agricultural products in domestic and international markets. The agency sets standards, provides grading, and shares market information for farm products to support fair trading and a competitive marketplace. It also oversees organic farming through certification and compliance programs. It was established in 1939.
What does the Program Support Center (PSC) do?
The Program Support Center (PSC) is a subdivision of the US Department of Health and Human Services responsible for providing a wide range of administrative and operational support services to various components of the department and other federal agencies. These services include financial management, human resources, procurement, and other essential functions that help ensure the efficient operation of government programs. The PSC aims to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of government operations through shared services and innovative solutions. It was established in 1995.
What does the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) do?
The Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is a subdivision of the Department of Justice responsible for the administration of the federal prison system. The agency ensures that federal inmates are confined in facilities that are safe, humane, cost-efficient, and secure. It also provides programs and services to inmates that facilitate their successful reintegration into society. The Bureau of Prisons was established in 1930.
What does the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) do?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is a subdivision of the US Department of Labor responsible for measuring labor market activity, working conditions, and price changes in the economy. The agency collects, analyzes, and disseminates essential economic information to support public and private decision-making. It also conducts research and provides data on employment, unemployment, inflation, productivity, and other economic indicators. It was established in 1884.
What does the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) do?
The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is a subdivision of the US Department of Agriculture responsible for ensuring that the nation's commercial supply of meat, poultry, and egg products is safe, wholesome, and correctly labeled and packaged. The agency conducts inspections, enforces food safety regulations, and works to prevent foodborne illnesses through rigorous testing and monitoring. It also provides guidance and education to industry and consumers on food safety practices. It was established in 1977.
What does the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) do?
The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is a subdivision of the Department of Transportation responsible for ensuring the safety of the nation's railroad system. The agency develops and enforces rail safety regulations, administers financial assistance programs to support rail infrastructure, and conducts research to improve rail safety and efficiency. It was established in 1966.
What does the Senate do?
The Senate is one of two chambers of the legislative branch responsible for creating and passing federal laws. It has 100 members — two from each state — who serve six-year terms with no limit. As one of the chambers of Congress, the Senate enacts federal laws, sets federal budgets, declares wars and approves treaties, confirms presidential appointments like judges and cabinet members, and conducts impeachment trials for federal officials. It was established in 1789.
What does the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) do?
The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) is a subdivision of the Department of Health and Human Services responsible for promoting the economic and social well-being of families, children, individuals, and communities. The agency runs programs that provide services and support for vulnerable populations, including child welfare, early childhood education, and family assistance. It was established in 1991.
What does the Coast Guard (USCG) do?
The US Coast Guard (USCG) is a subdivision of the US Department of Homeland Security responsible for ensuring the safety, security, and stewardship of the nation's waters. The agency conducts search and rescue operations, enforces maritime law, and protects the marine environment. It also supports national defense and responds to natural and man-made disasters. It was established in 1790.
What does the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) do?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is a subdivision of the Department of Health and Human Services responsible for protecting public health and safety through the control and prevention of disease, injury, and disability. The agency conducts research, provides health information, and supports public health efforts to respond to health threats ranging from infectious diseases to chronic conditions. It also works with state and local partners to monitor health trends and promote health equity. It was established in 1946.
What does the National Institutes of Health (NIH) do?
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is a subdivision of the US Department of Health and Human Services responsible for conducting and supporting medical research to improve public health. The agency funds and conducts research in various fields of biomedical science, including the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases. It also provides training for researchers and disseminates health information to the public. It was established in 1887.
What does the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) do?
The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) is a subdivision of the Department of the Interior responsible for managing the development of the nation's offshore resources in an environmentally and economically responsible way. The agency oversees leasing for oil and gas exploration, renewable energy development, and marine mineral extraction on the Outer Continental Shelf. It was established in 2011.
What does the Office of Insular Affairs (OIA) do?
The Insular Affairs is a subdivision of the US Department of the Interior responsible for overseeing federal administration of the US territories. The agency works to ensure that the territories receive appropriate federal support and services and coordinates with territorial governments to address their needs. It was established in 1934.
What does the National Park Service (NPS) do?
The National Park Service (NPS) is a subdivision of the US Department of the Interior responsible for managing and preserving national parks, monuments, and other historical sites across the United States. The agency's primary mission is to conserve the natural and cultural resources within these areas for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of current and future generations. It also works to protect the ecological integrity of these sites while providing recreational opportunities for the public. It was established in 1916.
What does the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) do?
The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) is a subdivision of the Department of Health and Human Services responsible for improving access to health care services for people who are uninsured, geographically isolated, or medically vulnerable. The agency provides funding to health providers, supports health workforce training, and oversees discounted prescription drug progams. It was established in 1982.
What does the Risk Management Agency (RMA) do?
The Risk Management Agency (RMA) is a subdivision of the Department of Agriculture responsible for helping farmers and ranchers manage their business risks. The agency provides crop insurance to protect against agricultural production losses due to natural disasters. It was established in 1996.
What does the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) do?
The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is a subdivision of the National Foundation on the Arts and Humanities responsible for administering grants to America's museums, libraries, and related organizations. It was established in 1996.
What does the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) do?
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is a subdivision of the Department of Commerce responsible for advising the president on telecommunications and information policy issues. It was established in 1978.
What does the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) do?
The Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) is a subdivision of the Department of Commerce responsible for promoting the growth and competitiveness of minority-owned businesses. The agency provides resources, advocacy, and support to help these businesses access capital, contracts, and markets. It was established in 1969.
What does the Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) do?
The Office of The United States Trade Representative (USTR) is a subdivision of the Executive Office of the President responsible for developing and coordinating US international trade, commodity, and direct investment policy, and overseeing negotiations with other countries. The agency works to create trade opportunities for American businesses and workers, enforce US trade laws, and ensure that trade agreements are fair and beneficial to the US economy. It was established in 1963.
What does the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) do?
The National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) is a subdivision of the Department of Agriculture responsible for providing statistics in service to national agriculture. It was established in 1863.
What does the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) do?
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is a subdivision of the US Department of the Interior responsible for administering public lands in the United States. The agency manages various resources and activities on these lands, including energy development, livestock grazing, recreation, and conservation. It aims to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. It was established in 1946.
What does the Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes (OLHCHH) do?
The Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes (OLHCHH) is a subdivision of the Department of Housing and Urban Development responsible for addressing lead-based paint hazards and other health and safety hazards in homes. The agency works to eliminate lead-based paint hazards in privately-owned and low-income housing, as well as to promote healthy housing through various programs and initiatives. It was established in 1992.
What does the Census Bureau (CENSUS) do?
The Bureau of the Census (Census Bureau) is a subdivision of the US Department of Commerce responsible for collecting and analyzing data about the population and economy of the United States. The agency conducts the decennial census, which provides data for government representation, allocation of federal funds, and policy making. It also conducts numerous other surveys on topics such as housing, business, and demographics. It was established in 1902.
What does the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) do?
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is a subdivision of the Department of the Treasury responsible for administering and enforcing the nation’s tax laws. It processes tax returns, collects federal taxes, issues refunds, and ensures compliance through audits and enforcement actions. The agency also provides guidance and assistance to help individuals and businesses understand and meet their tax obligations. It was established in 1862.
What does the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) do?
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is a subdivision of the Department of Health and Human Services responsible for administering the nation’s major healthcare programs including Medicare, Medicaid, and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The agency ensures that beneficiaries have access to high-quality healthcare services while also working to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare delivery. It was established in 1965.
What does the Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS) do?
The Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS) is a subdivision of the Department of Labor responsible for preparing America's veterans, service members, and their spouses for meaningful careers. The agency provides resources and expertise to assist veterans in obtaining employment and protects their employment rights. It also offers training programs, job search assistance, and employer outreach to ensure veterans have the support they need to transition to civilian employment. It was established in 1974.
What does the Office of English Language Acquisition (OELA) do?
The Office of English Language Acquisition (OELA) is a subdivision of the US Department of Education responsible for providing national leadership to help ensure that English learners and immigrant students attain English proficiency and achieve academic success. The agency administers grant programs, conducts research, and provides resources and technical assistance to support high-quality education for English learners. It was established in 1974.
What does the US Marshals (MARSHALS) do?
The United States Marshals Service (USMS) is a subdivision of the Department of Justice responsible for executing federal court orders, ensuring the safety of federal judicial officials, apprehending fugitives, managing and transporting prisoners, and protecting witnesses. It was established in 1789.
What does the Foreign Claims Settlement Commission (FCSC) do?
The Foreign Claims Settlement Commission of the United States (FCSC) is a subdivision of the Department of Justice responsible for adjudicating claims of US nationals against foreign governments. It was established in 1954.
What does the United States Mint (USMINT) do?
The United States Mint (US Mint) is a subdivision of the Department of the Treasury responsible for producing coinage for the United States to conduct its trade and commerce. The agency designs and manufactures domestic, bullion, and foreign coins, as well as Congressional Gold Medals and silver, gold, and platinum bullion coins. It also maintains physical custody and protection of the nation's gold and silver assets. It was established in 1792.
What does the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) do?
The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) is a subdivision of the Department of the Treasury responsible for enforcing and administering laws covering the production, use, and distribution of alcohol and tobacco products. The agency ensures that these products are labeled, advertised, and marketed in accordance with the law, and it collects excise taxes on alcohol, tobacco, firearms, and ammunition. It also works to prevent unfair and unlawful market practices and to protect consumers. It was established in 2003 under the Homeland Security Act. Regulation of alcohol, tobacco, and firearms have existed in some form by federal agencies since 1789.
What does the National Security Council (NSC) do?
The National Security Council (NSC) is a subdivision of the Executive Office of the President responsible for advising the President on national security and foreign policy matters. The NSC coordinates these policies among various government agencies to ensure a unified national security strategy. It was established in 1947.