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Federal Legislative History: Extras

Find the purpose or intent of a law by researching its legislative history.

Presidential Signing Statements

Once passed by both chambers, the bill then goes before the President. The President may issue a signing statement, another interpretation of the bill, and perhaps the first indication of how the executive branch will enforce the legislation.

Print
Search Diamond for papers
Print
Public Papers of the U.S. Presidents
1929-1931, 1945-
Print
Weekly Compilation of Pres. Docs.
1965-2000
Westlaw
PRES
1984-
Web
1993-

The Law Library of Congress has a very useful site discussing the use and authority of presidential signing statements.

Senators & Representatives

It may sound unconventional, but remember that you can contact your federal Senators and Representatives.  Sponsors have put much time and energy into drafting their bills.  They often have legislative aides in their offices to field information requests.  Consider going straight to the source. 

U.S. House Directory

U.S. Senate Directory