The 1997 Defense Reform Initiative noted that over 550 boards, commissions and working groups existed throughout the Department. While perhaps individually advantageous at the time of their creation, the aggregate effect of so many committees and boards involving so many employees resulted in too many hours not spent on core missions and functions.

The Defense Reform Initiative immediately eliminated 22 boards and committees.

The DRI also called for a 25 percent decrease in the total number of committees remaining.

We’ve exceeded this goal by reducing the number of committees to 338…a 40 percent reduction!

And we’ll continue these efforts. Periodic reviews and reassessments will ensure that the number of committees remain under control, and that existing committees remain relevant and focused on their primary goals. More importantly, the reviews will help us maintain our 40 percent reduction.