1. I. Membership of the Commission
2. 1. The Commission shall be comprised of no less than five members selected by the Governor.
3. 2. The members of the Commission shall receive no compensation but shall be entitled to reimbursement for any necessary expenses incurred in connection with the performance of their duties. Service on the Commission shall not constitute public employment for purposes of disqualification from holding public office or employment.
4. II. Responsibilities of the Commission
5. 1. The Commission shall solicit and accept nominations from all sources across the State and periodically convene in order to review such nominations. Annually, after evaluating all nominees based on the criteria set forth below, the Commission shall submit a list of medal nominees to the Governor and an account of their backgrounds, character and accomplishments. From the list, the Governor shall select one or more individuals to receive the Jackie Robinson Empire State Freedom Medal.
6. 2. In making its selection of nominees for the Jackie Robinson Empire State Freedom Medal, the Commission shall utilize the following criteria which best exemplify the life and attributes of Jackie Robinson: honesty, courage, leadership, determination, integrity and commitment to the betterment of society.
7. 3. The Commission is hereby authorized to call upon the Department of State to provide such administrative support and assistance as is necessary to carry out its activities and effectuate the purpose of this Order.

8. 4. Every State department, agency, division, board, bureau, commission and other entity over which I have executive power shall also provide assistance and cooperation to the Commission.

   Signed: George E. Pataki Dated: July 1, 1998

WHEREAS, a compelling need exists to recognize individuals for their outstanding accomplishments, dedication and commitment toward the betterment of New York State;

WHEREAS, Jack “Jackie” Roosevelt Robinson was such an outstanding individual;

WHEREAS, Jackie Robinson entered major league baseball on April 15, 1947 as a Brooklyn Dodger;

WHEREAS, Jackie Robinson demonstrated amazing strength and fortitude by pioneering the integration of professional baseball and challenging the deeply rooted color barriers of segregation in America;

WHEREAS, Jackie Robinson was a champion of civil rights, justice and freedom for all Americans;

WHEREAS, Jackie Robinson based his life on the fundamental characteristics of honesty, courage, determination, integrity and commitment for a better society; and

WHEREAS, Jackie Robinson's undaunted pursuit of excellence and reverence toward his fellow man embodies the spirit of New York State;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE E. PATAKI, Governor of the State of New York, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and Laws of the State of New York, do hereby create the Jackie Robinson Empire State Freedom Medal and the Jackie Robinson Empire State Freedom Medal Commission (the “Commission”).