Constitution_&_Bylaws

Constitution & Bylaws

Department Constitution & Bylaws

Order is maintained in any group be that a community or organization by the rule of law.  Within an organization there are three primary parts that give us our rule of law.  With all three in place, all members of the group have clear understanding of the rules to abide by.

1)    The Constitution defines the group’s purpose and provides the very basics of the group’s structure.   Careful thought is given to creating a clear and concise constitution but within its rules there is always a provision for making changes (Amending).  The Constitution is rarely amended.  Amendments too must be carefully considered and are therefore purposely made difficult to pass. 

2)      Bylaws provide further structure for conducting business and governing procedures.  They are more likely to be revised as procedural changes occur. (i.e.: amount of dues – are dues up to date in yours?)

3)      Standing Rules cover details for each administrative year.  These must be reviewed, changed as needed and voted on annually.

Every member should have a copy of their Constitution and Bylaws and every Unit should make an effort to explain and refer to them frequently to familiarize the membership with their content. 

Each Unit should annually review their Constitution and Bylaws in the following manner: 

1)      Order two copies of the Suggested Unit Constitution & Bylaws or download from the NY website:  
   Click here Suggested Unit Constitution & Bylaws

2)      Give members advance notice of meeting to review and a second meeting date for voting

3)      Give members timely notice of proposed changes after the review meeting

4)      Upon voting a 2/3 vote will be required for passage by those present

5)      Complete ALL blanks & signatures in Suggested Unit Constitution & Bylaws

6)      Send both copies accompanied by transmittal form   to: Chairman listed below.  After being approved; one copy will be returned to you & one kept in the Department office. (Transmittal Form CAN be filled out using your Computer Keyboard )

Remember, you can not add, change, include anything in your Constitution & Bylaws that would be in conflict with the National or Department Constitution & Bylaws.

 If questions,  DO NOT contact the National organization.  Units should contact your county Constitution & Bylaws Chairman.  If she cannot resolve the question, she will contact the Department Constitution & Bylaws Chairman. If a ruling is needed by the Judge Advocate, it must be requested by the Department.

Obtain your 2 copies today, and you are on your way to a successful year. 

Mary Anne Casadei, Chairman
Department Constitution & Bylaws
Email: rcasadei@juno.com

 Member -  Anna Ballard

 Suggested Unit Constitution & Bylaws |  Resolutions | Unit Audit Data Form

Department Constitution & Bylaws