Resolving the Presidential Signing Statement Controversy: New York State as a Separation of Powers Laboratory

Authors

Kristien G. Knapp, Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law

Abstract

The note examines the controversy surrounding presidential signing statements and their constitutional implications, comparing them to New York's gubernatorial approval memoranda. It argues that while presidential signing statements, particularly those of constitutional nature, raise concerns about separation of powers and legislative intent, New York's approval memoranda are widely accepted as a legitimate tool for clarifying legislation. The analysis highlights structural and functional differences between federal and state systems, suggesting that state-level practices could offer insights into resolving the federal controversy over signing statements.

Disciplines

Law | State and Local Government Law

Recommended Citation

Kristien G. Knapp, Resolving the Presidential Signing Statement Controversy: New York State as a Separation of Powers Laboratory, 6 Cardozo Pub. L. Pol’y & Ethics J. 737 (2008).
Available at: https://larc.cardozo.yu.edu/cplpej/vol6/iss3/6