Final answer:
Standing committees are known as subject matter committees because they specialize in distinct policy areas, allowing members to develop expertise and influence legislation in these areas.
Step-by-step explanation:
Standing committees are known as subject matter committees because they deal with particular policy matters. Each standing committee specializes in a specific category of policy query. This specialization allows the members to develop expertise in their respective fields. The specialized focus of a standing committee can range from budgetary issues, defense, education, foreign affairs, and so on. The depth of knowledge that members accumulate makes them effective legislators in their designated areas, thereby greatly impacting the legislative process.
Learn more about Standing Committees