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Researching an issue can be an overwhelming task, particularly when the objective of the project is not clearly defined. Ask your supervisor for specific directions.
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Use the Subject Index, found in the Clerk's office and/or the State Library, to identify the bills that have been filed on the issue. List the bills and their sponsors and summarize them briefly.
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Locate the committee staff person who is responsible for the issue. Discuss the issue with him/her. Ask for copies of memos and fact sheets that he/she might have. Also ask for a list of opponents and proponents. Check with the sponsors of the bill for relevant data.
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There is a publication entitled the Encyclopedia of Associations available at the reference desk or on the in-house computers in the State Library. It lists all the associations and includes brief descriptions of the organizations. Contact the opponents and the proponents. Ask for a fact sheet. If none is available, summarize the pro and con views yourself.
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Check the State Library for publications on the issue. The Editorial Research Reports, Congressional Digest, Reference Shelf, and Public Affairs Pamphlets provide research information on public policy issues. Ask about law review articles at the Reference Desk. Periodicals and newspapers are on the fourth floor balcony.
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Photostat relevant newspaper articles and periodicals remembering to label them with the date and source. Back issues of The Boston Globe, The New York Times, and other newspapers are on microfilm on the fourth floor of the State Library. Research of Boston Globe articles and periodicals can be done quickly with the computers on the fourth floor of the Library.
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Find out what is happening in other states. The National Conference of State Legislatures located in Colorado provides invaluable research assistance and publishes a monthly magazine for state legislatures which focuses on state government and related issues.
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Prepare a short background report. Briefly state your opinion and recommendation for action. List the pros and cons for the different proposals and do not forget to substantiate your findings with facts. Compile all information into a comprehensive package.
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Make certain when presenting the information to your Legislator or supervisor, you also give a copy to the staff person responsible for this particular issue.
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Source:
Legislative Intern Handbook. Boston, Mass. : Senate Legislative Education Office, 2003. |
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