[2] The secretary is responsible for the regulation of a number of businesses and professions, including private investigators, cosmetologists, real estate brokers, appraisers, and notaries public.

[3][4][5] They are also responsible for publishing on their website a complete codification of all local laws in effect that have been adopted by the legislative body of each county.

From 1823 to 1845, the secretary was elected by joint ballot of the New York State Legislature for a term of three years.

The secretary elected in 1895 received an additional year and served a three-year term, and from 1898 on, the secretary and other state officers were elected in even years to a two-year term at the same time as the governor, and they served concurrently.

In 1926, during the governorship of Al Smith, the state administration was reorganized, and the office became appointive and has remained so.