Joint committees are legislative bodies that consist of members from both houses of a bicameral legislature, such as the United States Congress. These committees are formed to address specific issues or tasks, allowing for collaboration and communication between the two chambers. They can conduct investigations, gather information, and draft legislation, making the legislative process more efficient. There are different types of joint committees, including conference committees, which resolve differences between the House and Senate versions of a bill. By bringing together representatives from both sides, joint committees help ensure that diverse perspectives are considered, ultimately leading to more comprehensive and effective legislation.