What do oversight hearings primarily aim to assess?

Oversight hearings primarily focus on assessing the accountability of executive activities within government operations. These hearings are conducted by legislative bodies to evaluate how effectively and efficiently executive agencies are implementing laws and managing public resources. During these sessions, lawmakers may examine specific actions taken by agencies, review compliance with regulations, and ensure that public funds are being spent appropriately.

The emphasis on accountability is crucial because it helps maintain checks and balances within government. This process allows legislators to hold the executive branch accountable for its actions, ensuring transparency and ethical governance. By scrutinizing executive activities, oversight hearings play a vital role in upholding the public's trust in government institutions.

The other options, while related to government operations, do not capture the primary intent of oversight hearings as precisely as the focus on accountability does. Types of fiscal instruments pertain to financial mechanisms, investment in government projects deals with funding matters, and legislative policy effectiveness refers to how well laws achieve their intended outcomes. Therefore, the essence of oversight hearings lies in verifying and ensuring that executive functions are conducted responsibly and transparently.