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New York State Legislative History

A legislative history is compiled as a method to determine the intent of the legislative body enacting the law.

Bill and Veto Jackets - New York State Digital Library

This collection consists of files, or “jackets” dating from 1995-recent, which document the governor’s legislative decision-making process on bills that have been signed into law or vetoed by the executive.  The jackets, which are compiled by the Counsel to the Governor on an annual basis, are comprised mainly of memoranda and correspondence to the governor from state agencies, legislators, legislative committees, commissions, legal associations, lobbyists, private firms, and citizens, expressing approval of or opposition to particular legislation.

Approval Jackets are referenced by session law citation, ex. 1998 c. 122.

Veto Jackets include the Governor's veto message.  The veto number is found in the bill status information in the New York Legislative Digest.

Bill Jackets: Microform Holdings

Approval Jackets:  1950-1958 on microfilm in Cabinet 17.  Family Court Act, 1962 c. 682 is in microfiche.

Veto Jackets: 1975-1982 in microfiche, Lektriever #4, Shelf 23, Drawers H-N.

New York Assembly Sponsors memoranda, 1989-1990 in microfiche, Lektriever 4, Shelf 27, Drawer N.

New York Senate Sponsors memoranda, 1989-1990 in microfiche, Lektriever 4, Shelf 27, Drawer N.



Print Sources for Memoranda