Government publications encompass a variety of materials released by government agencies and bodies.
Government publications include reports, guidance documents, administrative decisions, and other materials published by government agencies and legislative bodies. For instance, Congressional Research Service (CRS) reports provide in-depth, non-partisan analysis on a broad range of policy and legal topics.
Government publications can be helpful in legal research as they provide authoritative and detailed information on legal and policy matters. They often contain original research, empirical data, and thorough analysis that can illuminate the legislative intent behind laws, clarify regulatory requirements, and offer insights into current policy debates.
Government publications are typically available through government websites and databases. For instance, CRS reports can be accessed directly through the CRS website or resources like the University of North Texas Libraries' CRS Report Archive. Utilizing these sources involves identifying the relevant agency or body, then searching their publications for information related to your research topic. As with all secondary sources, verify the information with primary sources where possible.