Final answer:
In New York laws, 'Secretary' usually refers to a member of the executive branch at the federal level, appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. This individual heads a cabinet department or agency and ensures the faithful execution of laws.
Step-by-step explanation:
When the word 'Secretary' appears in New York laws, it typically refers to a member of the executive branch of government, who has been appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. In this context, each cabinet department within the federal government is headed by a Secretary, who reports directly to the President. A Secretary is responsible for overseeing the various offices and agencies within their department, working to fulfill the department's mission-oriented functions.
For instance, the Department of Justice, rather than being headed by a Secretary, is led by the Attorney General. Each department may also have several undersecretaries, assistant secretaries, and deputy secretaries to manage specific areas within the department. In the broader context of New York state law, references to a 'Secretary' would generally pertain to a federal role, unless the context makes clear that a state-level or other administrative position is being discussed.
This definition aligns with the principles laid out in the U.S. Constitution, which grants the President certain powers, such as appointing officers and department heads. The Secretary of a department plays a crucial role in ensuring that the laws and policies enacted by Congress are 'faithfully executed,' as required by the Constitution.