Resolutions & Amendments

Overview Bylaws – Purpose and Structure Changing of Bylaws Amendments Elements in Amendments Resolutions Review Forms and Summary Tips

Bylaws - Purpose Contains Basic Rules of Operation Outlines the Structure and Functions of the Organization Includes all Rules That are so Important that it Cannot be Changed Without Prior Notice to Members and at least a 2/3 vote Only Take a Majority Vote to Accept a Set of Bylaws, but Prior Notice and 2/3 Vote to Change

Bylaws Structure Articles – I, II, III, etc. Sections – 1, 2, 3, etc. Paragraphs – a, b, c, etc.

N.C. Federation Bylaws Article I Name Article II Objectives Article III Members Article IV Officers Aritcle V Meetings Article VI Executive Board Article VII Standing Committees Article VIII Resolutions Article IX Parliamentary Authority Article X Amendments of Bylaws

Changing of Bylaws Through Proposed Amendments May be Initiated by a Chapter, the Federation Executive Board, or the Bylaws Committee Proposed Amendment Should be Submitted on NARFE Form F3C Must be Submitted to Federation Secretary and Chair of Bylaws Committee at least 90 Days Prior to Convention Normally Publicized Through Newspaper or By Letter to Chapter Presidents

Amendments to Bylaws Amendments to bylaws can be offered in two ways: (1) by an ordinary amendment to the bylaws, and (2) by revision of the bylaws. An ordinary amendment is a proposed change in a specific article, section, or paragraph. May amend by inserting or deleting one or more words in a paragraph, section, or article. May amend by adding or deleting an entire article, section, or paragraph. May rescind an entire article.

Elements in Amendments Subject or Title Bylaw Article and Section in question Whereas: describes the point of concern Be it Resolved: states the proposed change

Examples of Bylaw Amendments Board Member Holding Chapter Office Chapter Assistance

Resolutions A Motion Consisting of a Recommendation of Some Action that the Convention Should Take. A Formal Expression of Opinion, Will, or Intent voted by an Official Body or Assembled Group.

Example: Membership Dues Whereas much concern has been expressed over the current member dues structure and a special study is needed. Be it resolved that the Executive Board appoint a special committee to study this concern and come back with recommendations at our next convention.

Courtesy Resolutions Resolutions Expressing Appreciation to a Person or Group for Some Achievement or Contribution

Example: Courtesy Resolution Whereas, NC Federation has held a most successful convention; and whereas, the success of this convention has been brought about by careful planning and effective execution of our host committee; therefore Be it Resolved, that this convention go on record as expressing its sincere appreciation to the Host Committee for making this convention a most pleasant and rewarding experience.

Review Forms Proposed Bylaw/Standing Rule Amendment Proposed Convention Resolution

Summary Tips Keep it Accurate, Clear and Brief Make sure you have a clear subject and proper reference The fewer “whereas” sections you have, the better. In “whereas” section, states the proposed change. There should be only one “Be It Resolved” statement The “Be It Resolved” statement should provide the summation of the proposal and include the exact proposed wording if related to a bylaw change. If related to national affairs, the proposal should be sent to the Federation for review.