Final answer:
Committees do keep full records of important votes, as mandated by legislative rules. The U.S. Congress, including both the House and Senate, must maintain and publish a journal of proceedings, recording the votes of members when required, with certain exceptions for secrecy.
Step-by-step explanation:
It is true that committees keep full records of important votes. According to the rules that govern legislative bodies like the U.S. Congress, both the House of Representatives and the Senate are required to maintain a journal of their proceedings. This journal includes a record of the votes cast by members on significant legislative questions. Congress must publish the journal periodically, except for parts deemed secret. If at least one-fifth of the members present demand it, the specific votes of members, known as the Yeas and Nays, must be entered into the journal.
Committees play a central role in the legislative process, and they have the power to shape policy through their detailed review and development of legislation. Committees are responsible for holding hearings, examining bills, and providing recommendations to their respective chambers. Subcommittees within these committees further focus on specific issues under the committees' jurisdiction.
The importance of keeping complete records of votes within these committees cannot be overstated, as they serve as an official account of legislative actions and decisions, influencing public policy and law-making.