WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Todd Young, R-Indiana recently announced his four committee assignments for the 119th Congress.

For the first time, Young was selected to serve on the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. The Intelligence Committee was created by the Senate in 1976 to "oversee and make continuing studies of the intelligence activities and programs of the United States Government," and to "provide vigilant legislative oversight over the intelligence activities of the United States to assure that such activities are in conformity with the Constitution and laws of the United States."

"As a former U.S. Marine Corps intelligence officer, I have a deep appreciation for our dedicated intelligence professionals and the importance of unbiased intelligence to our national security. I look forward to working with my colleagues on the committee to ensure policymakers are receiving the best intelligence possible as they make critical decisions," he said.

The Intelligence Committee has 17 senators: nine from the majority party and eight from the minority. The one-seat majority is dictated by Senate resolution and, unlike most other committees, does not change in proportion with the overall Senate ratio of majority to minority membership. The committee structure is intended to reflect the nonpartisan nature of intelligence and encourage the committee to work in a bipartisan manner.

Young will continue to serve on the Senate Committee on Finance; the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation; and the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship. The Senate Finance Committee will play a pivotal role in tax reform efforts next year.

"I'm honored to continue my work on these committees to tackle the issues most important to Hoosiers, including stimulating economic growth, reducing costs for families, and ensuring America maintains global leadership in technology," said Senator Young.

The committee assignments will begin in January.