What are histories and tracings?
Legislative histories and tracings provide a comprehensive overview of the entire legislative journey of an item, policy or bill, as it progresses through the process of becoming law. Typically, these histories include a summary of the subject, dates of when bills were deliberated in committees, details about hearings, reports pertaining to the legislative matter, and additional relevant information. Additionally, these resources can illustrate the incorporation of a policy into the United States Code or at a local level, such as within the San Diego Bylaws, Policies, and Administrative Regulations.
Why use histories and tracings?
Legislative histories and tracings offer in-depth contextual insights into the formation of legislation. Changes to bills, congressional testimonies, and the observation of political proceedings unveil the intricate and interconnected dynamics of public policy.
For example, after you have found a bill you are interested in, the Legislative History will provide you with information such as summaries, debates, versions, reports, and hearings. This contextual information can help with your understanding of a bill in ways that improves your own research.
Search available federal Legislative and Executive Publications in ProQuest Congressional. Limit your search to "Legislative Histories" on the search page.
