"In recent decades, however, presidents of both parties have aggrandized their power and usurped Congress to legislate from the Oval Office," Goodlatte stated on Tuesday. "This is not a Republican or Democratic issue; it’s an American issue and touches the very core of our system of government."
The Judiciary Committee intends to authorize the Task Force for six months to study the alleged increase in presidential power and its impact on the ability of Congress to oversee the executive branch, according to the press release. Moreover, the Task Force will review the ways in which Congressmen can restore the proper balance of powers.
"The separation of powers and its checks and balances are designed to protect individual liberty and we must ensure that it is preserved for future generations," Goodlatte noted.
Republicans have criticized President Barack Obama for his use of executive orders, particularly with regard to gun control.