Purpose: 

To rework the rules to meet the needs of the party at its current size with the required flexibility for future needs as the party grows, while maintaining autonomy over state organizations not well developed or to deal with, on a national level, state organizations not acting on the national party's behalf.

 

Edits and changes made to the current document by comparison:

 

1:  A cosmetic change:  The document is now being presented on a party letterhead with only the Initial Adoption date and Last Amended dates listed at the beginning of the document.  A full listing of the dates of amendments has been moved to the end of the document.

 

2: Article 1: Section 1d

Original “d. Three At-Large Delegates from each State Party Organization.”

 

Suggested: deleted due to duplicate information

 

3: Article 1: Section 2c

Original “c. Be registered with the convention Credentials Committee upon arrival at the Convention site. No person shall be deemed to be a Delegate, who is not so registered;”

 

Suggested “c. Be registered with the convention Credentials Committee upon arrival at the Convention site. No person shall be deemed a Delegate, who is not so registered; or be allowed entry via consensus of registered state delegates approved by the Credentialing Committee at the beginning of the National Convention;”

 

4: Article 1 section 2d

Original was deleted as it was merged with 2c in the suggested document.

Deleted wording “d. Or be seated via consensus of registered state delegates approved by the Credentialing Committee at the beginning of the National Convention.”

 

5: Article 1 section 2e

Is relabeled 2d due to the deletion of the previously mentioned line

 

6: Article 1 Section 4

Original “Any Delegate may be removed by vote of two-thirds of the registered Delegates of the National Convention. The seat of a Delegate so removed shall become automatically and immediately vacant; an advisory notice from the convention Secretary shall be sent to the Credentials Committee upon such removal.”

 

Suggested “Any Delegate may be removed by vote of 2/3 of the registered Delegates of the National Convention. The seat of a Delegate so removed shall become automatically and immediately vacant; an advisory notice from the convention Secretary shall be sent to the Credentials Committee upon such removal.”

 

7: Article 1 Section 5

Original “Section 5. Each State Party Organization is entitled to Alternate Delegates in equal numbers as Delegates. Each Alternate Delegate shall meet the same qualifications as a Delegate, and shall have no voting rights until re-registered as a Delegate.

Suggested “Section 5. Each State Party Organization is entitled to Alternate Delegates in equal numbers as Delegates. Each Alternate Delegate shall meet the same qualifications as a Delegate, and shall have no voting rights unless and until re-registered as a Delegate.”

 

8: Article 1 Section 6b1

Original “1. Be mailed to each affiliated State Party Organization and the National Committee representatives not more than ninety days and not less than thirty days prior to the date of the first scheduled business meeting of the session being called, ”

Suggested “1: Be mailed or emailed to each affiliated State Party Organization and the National Committee representatives not more than ninety days and not less than thirty days prior to the date of the first scheduled business meeting of the session being called,”

 

9: Article 1 Section 6b2

Original “2. Specify the date, hour, and place of the convention,”

 

Suggested “2. Specify the date, hour, and place of the convention. A convention may be held in person, by teleconference, or video-conference as directed by the body that called for the convention,” 

 

10: Article 1 Section 6b3

Suggested added rule “3. Contain an outline of intended materials to be covered as agreed upon by the Committee that called for the National Convention,”

 

11: Article 1 Section 6b4

Is the same as the current Article 1 Section 6b3 renumbered due to the suggested addition.

 

12: Article 1 Section 6c

Original “c. A quorum of the National Convention shall be a majority of all registered Delegates. “

 

Suggested “c. A quorum of the National Convention shall be a majority of all registered and credentialed Delegates.

 

13: Article 1 Section 6d2

Original “2. Each Delegate shall report to the State Party Organization of which he or she is a member;”

 

Suggested “2. Each Delegate shall report to the State Party Organization of which he or she is a member; for those delegates not part of a Affiliated State Party Organization level 3, they shall report their their Regional Representative or the National Secretary;”

14:  Article 1 Section 7

Original: “Section 7. Special Conventions may be called for specific purposes.

a. Special conventions may meet by teleconference or videoconference.

b. Reasonable notice of at least 7 days shall be given to each affiliated State Party Organization and the National Committee Representatives.”

 

Suggested ( Section 7a has been removed as meetings has been defined) “Section 7. Special Conventions may be called for specific purposes.

a. Reasonable notice of at least 14 days shall be given to each affiliated State Party Organization and the National Committee Representatives.”

 

15: Article 1 Section 8

Original “Section 8. The minutes and Resolutions of the National Convention shall be recorded in writing, be filed with Reform Party Executive Committee, and distributed to each State Party Organization.”

 

Suggested “Section 8.  The minutes and Resolutions of the National Convention shall be recorded in writing, be filed with Reform Party Executive Committee within 30 days of the closing of the National Convention, and distributed to each State Party Organization in no more than 45 days of the closing of the National Convention.  

1. These duties are to be completed by the National Secretary, or an appointed individual by the National Secretary on the Secretary's behalf.  If the National Secretary is unable to complete this function, the National Chairman is given the right to either perform this function or appoint a delegate to do so in the National Secretary's stead.”

16: Article 2 Section 1

Original “Section 1. The National Committee shall be responsible for the day-to-day business and affairs of the Reform Party between sessions of the National Convention. Such responsibilities shall include:

a. Election of National Committee Officers and filling Officer vacancies;

b. Determining the disbursement of monies in the national treasury to Reform Party federal candidates;

c. Formulating and promoting statements of public policy consistent with the Reform Party adopted platform and Statement of Principles;

d. Providing for national Reform Party public relations and voter education;

e. Assisting the state party organizations with technology, expertise, etc;

f. Providing a clear interpretation of an ambiguous individual rule in the Rules that has not been previously clarified by a national convention;

g. Making a substitute nomination for candidates for president and/or vice-president of the United States in the event of death, disability, or resignation of the convention nominated candidates;

h. All other actions appropriate or necessary for the successful operation at the national level between national conventions;

i. Assist affiliated State Party Organizations in the election of their candidates for federal office and voter education.”

 

Suggested “Section 1. The National Committee shall be responsible for the annual business and affairs of the Reform Party between sessions of the National Convention. Such responsibilities shall include:

a. Election of National Committee Officers and filling Officer vacancies;

b. Determining the disbursement of monies in the national treasury to Reform Party federal candidates;

c. Formulating and promoting statements of public policy consistent with the Reform Party adopted platform and Statement of Principles;

d. Providing for national Reform Party public relations and voter education through the Executive Committee;

e. Assisting the state party organizations with technology, expertise, training, party building, etc;

f. Providing a clear interpretation of an ambiguous individual rule in the Rules that has not been previously clarified by a national convention, to be upheld until the next National convention is held and the ruling is finalized in the Party by-laws;

g. Making a substitute nomination for candidates for president and/or vice-president of the United States in the event of death, disability, or resignation of the convention nominated candidates;

h. Assist affiliated State Party Organizations in the election of their candidates for federal office and voter education.

 

1. All other actions appropriate or necessary for the successful operation at the national level between national conventions;”

 

17: Article 2 Section 2

Original “Section 2. The National Committee shall be composed of:

a. The Regional Representatives;

b. Three Committee Representatives from each State Party Organization;

c. One Representative from the District of Columbia Party Organization and each U.S. Territory Party Organization. “

 

Suggested “Section 2. The National Committee shall be composed of: 3 committee members from each affiliated State Organization, and one committee member for the District of Columbia and each  US Territory Party Organization.  All Executive Committee members shall be elected from this body.”

 

18: Article 2 Section 6

Original “Section 6. The sessions of the National Committee shall be such that:

a. The National Committee shall meet annually. In national nominating convention years the national committee shall meet at the convention location, during or immediately following the adjournment of the national convention;

b. Special meetings of the national committee may be held when necessary. A special meeting of the national committee may adjourn to another date only if necessary to conclude the business/agenda from the original meeting;

c. A National Committee meeting may be called by the national chairman, the Executive Committee, or by written request of one-fourth of all National Committee representatives;

d. A special session of the National Committee may meet by teleconference or electronic means upon a resolution by 8 Executive Committee representatives or written request of ¼ of all National Committee representatives;

e. The National Committee may conduct a vote by mail on any matter that does not require a debate. A vote by mail of the National Committee may be conducted by resolution of the Executive Committee.”

 

Suggested “Section 6. The sessions of the National Committee shall be such that:

a. The National Committee shall meet annually at minimum;

b. Special meetings of the national committee may be held when necessary. A special meeting of the National Committee may adjourn to another date only if necessary to conclude the business/agenda from the original meeting;

c. A special session of the National Committee may be called by the National Chairman, upon a resolution 3 Executive Committee members, or written request of ¼ of all National Committee representatives;

d. The National Committee may conduct a vote by mail or email on any matter that does not require a debate. A vote by mail of the National Committee may be conducted by resolution of the Executive Committee.”

 

19: Article 2 Section 7 (this change has been suggested to protect the party from State representatives boycotting the National Committee Meeting so as to avoid quorum)

 

Original “Section 7. A quorum of the National Committee shall be a majority of the registered National Committee Representatives for that session.”

 

Suggested “Section 7. A quorum of the National Committee shall be a majority of the registered National Committee Representatives that have attended at least ¾ of the previous year's National Committee meetings; if only 1 National Committee meeting has been held in the past year, then quorum is determined to be ¾ of the National Committee Representatives that attended the last 2 National Committee meetings.”

 

20: Article 2 Section 9

 

Original “Section 9. Whenever an official communication to a National Committee Representative shall have been returned by the postal or other delivery service, the National Secretary shall immediately notify the Chairman and Secretary of the Representative's State Party Organization.”

 

Suggested “Section 9. Whenever an official communication to a National Committee Representative has been returned by the postal or other delivery service, the National Secretary shall immediately notify the Secretary of the Representative's State Party Organization.” (The State Chairman should be notified by the State Secretary.  This is information shared from secretary to secretary)

 

21: Article 3 Section 1

 

Original “Section 1. The Executive Committee shall be composed of the National Committee Officers and the Regional Representatives.”

 

Suggested “Section 1. The Executive Committee shall be composed of the National Committee Officers and the Regional Representatives. The National Committee Officers are the corresponding Executive Committee officers in name and function.”

 

22: Article 3 Section 2

 

Original “Section 2. The Executive Committee shall conduct the day-to-day business and affairs of the Reform Party between meetings of the National Committee. The responsibilities and duties of the Executive Committee shall include:

a. Public relations and voter education in keeping with the adopted platform and principles;

b. Approval of all press releases prior to release;

c. Providing for the raising, budgeting, and accounting of monies for the operation of the Reform Party;

d. Maintaining and providing all national records, lists of convention delegates and lists of national committee representatives;

e. Creation and supervision of a Credentials Committee, which shall consist of one person from each region chosen by the respective Regional Representative from among persons selected by the State Party Organizations in the region. The Credentials Committee shall use the delegate and national committee representative lists submitted from affiliated State Party Organizations to register all convention delegates and national committee representatives at each session;

f. Procuring facilities and necessary paraphernalia for national conventions and National Committee meetings;

g. Providing for such organizational, administrative and financial support as the National Convention may require for its organization and operation;

h. Insuring the Standing Committees and the Special Committees are functioning so as to fulfill the provisions of these Rules and the object of the Reform Party;

i. All actions appropriate or necessary to carry out the provisions of these Rules, actions of the National Convention, and resolutions and directives of the National Committee.”

 

Suggested “Section 2. The Executive Committee shall conduct the day-to-day business and affairs of the Reform Party, according to the directives of the National Committee. The responsibilities and duties of the Executive Committee shall include:

a. Public relations and voter education in keeping with the adopted platform and principles;

b. Approval of all national press releases prior to release;

c. Providing for the raising, budgeting, and accounting of monies for the operation of the Reform Party of the United States;

d. Maintaining and providing all national records, lists of convention delegates and lists of national committee representatives;

e. Creation and supervision of a Credentials Committee, which shall consist of one person from each region chosen by the respective Regional Representative from among persons selected by the State Party Organizations in the region. The Credentials Committee shall use the delegate and national committee representative lists submitted from affiliated State Party Organizations to register all convention delegates and national committee representatives at each session;

f. Procuring facilities, services, and necessary materials for national conventions and National Committee meetings;

g. Providing for such organizational, administrative and financial support as the National Convention may require for its organization and operation;

h. Insuring the Standing Committees and the Special Committees are functioning so as to fulfill the provisions of these Rules and the mission of the Reform Party of the United States;

i. Carrying out all actions appropriate or necessary to the provisions of these Rules, actions of the National Convention, and resolutions and directives of the National Committee.”

 

23: Article 3 Section 3

 

Original “Section 3. The Executive Committee shall meet as necessary to conduct the business of the Reform Party. Executive Committee meetings may be called by the Committee Chairman or upon action of any three Executive Committee Members. The Executive Committee may meet by teleconference or other electronic means.”

 

Suggested “Section 3. The Executive Committee shall meet monthly or more as necessary to conduct the business of the Reform Party. Executive Committee meetings may be called by the Committee Chairman or upon action of any 3 Executive Committee Members. The Executive Committee may meet by teleconference or other electronic means.”

 

24: Article 3 Section 6

 

Original “Section 6. Regional Representatives:

a. Regional Representatives shall be elected by the respective region's National Committee Representatives, who shall meet in caucus for the election;

b. A Regional Representative's term of office shall begin at the close of the national convention in presidential election years, or on September 15 in non-presidential election years. Each National Committee Representative shall serve for two calendar years and until their successor is elected;

c. To be eligible as a Regional Representative a person must be a member of an affiliated State Party Organization.

Section 7. The duties of each Regional Representative shall be:

a. Be a Member of the Executive Committee;

b. Be a conduit for information between the State Party organizations in the respective Region and the Executive Committee;

c. Provide all organizational help possible and practical to the State Party organizations in the respective Region when requested;

d. Compile a list of qualified candidates for Committee Chairmen who have the ability, experience and knowledge for Committees, and make recommendations for these positions;

e. Compile a list of any special talents that have been identified within the state parties for potential service to the national party committee.”

 

Suggested “Section 7. The duties of each Regional Representative shall be:

a. Be a Member of the Executive Committee;

b. Be a conduit for information between the State Party organizations in the respective Region and the Executive Committee and forward all information not deemed confidential by the Executive Committee back to the regions' State Party Organizations.;

c. Provide all organizational help possible and practical to the State Party organizations in the respective Region when requested;

d. Compile a list of qualified candidates for Committee Chairmen who have the ability, experience and knowledge for Committees, and make recommendations for these positions;

e. Compile a list of any special talents that have been identified within the state parties for potential service to the national party committee.”

25. Article 3 Section 8

Original “Section 8. The regions are defined as:

a. Northeast Region – Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont;

b. Midatlantic Region – Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C., West Virginia;

c. Southeast Region – Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee;

d. Midwest Region – Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, Minnesota;

e. Southwest Region – Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas;

f. Northwest Region – Colorado, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, Wyoming;

g. Pacific Region – Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Washington.”

 

Suggested “Section 8. The regions are defined as:

a. Northeast Region – Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont;

b. Midatlantic Region – Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C., West Virginia;

c. Southeast Region – Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee;

d. Midwest Region – Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, Minnesota;

e. Southwest Region – Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas;

f. Northwest Region – Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, Wyoming;

g. Pacific Region – Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Oregon, Washington.” 

(Idaho has been moved to the MW region due to population and to lessen the responsibilities to more manageable levels for the Pacific region)

 

26: Article 3 Section 10

Original “Section 10. In the event of a Regional Representative vacancy, such vacancy shall be filled for the remainder of the term by vote at a caucus of the National Committee Representatives in the particular region.”

 

Suggested “Section 10. In the event of a Regional Representative vacancy, such vacancy shall be filled for the remainder of the term by vote at a caucus of the National Committee Representatives in that region within 30 days of the vacancy being created.”

 

27. Article 3 Section 11 was approved in April 2021 in its entirety but was not posted to the shared drive.  No changes were made.

 

28. Article 4 Section 1

 

Original “Section 1. There shall be Standing Committees as follows.

a. Rules – The Rules Committee shall report to the National Convention. The Rules Committee shall be responsible for: developing and proposing amendments to these Rules and other procedural rules, including amendments thereto, for the conduct of the national convention; such other duties as may be assigned;

b. Platform – The Platform Committee shall report to the National Convention. The Platform Committee shall be responsible for: receiving the platform planks adopted by affiliated state party organizations. The received platform planks shall be the basis for recommended planks for adoption by the National Convention based upon planks received from the State Party Organizations; developing and proposing amendments to the national party Statement of Principles; other such duties as may be assigned;

c. Communications – The Communications Committee shall report to the Executive Committee. The Communications Committee shall be responsible for: developing plans to keep party members informed on various public and internal issues; developing internal party communications including maintenance of the national website; other such duties as may be assigned;

d. Finance – The Finance Committee shall report to the Executive Committee. The Finance Committee shall be responsible for: fundraising at the national level; advising the various State Party Organizations regarding fundraising and other financial issues; other such duties as may be assigned.

 

Section 2. Standing Committee members shall serve a term corresponding to that of the Regional Representatives. Standing Committees shall be comprised as follows:

a. Platform and Rules: One person from each State Party Organization, chosen by each state party organization according to their rules;

b. Communications and Finance: Each committee shall consist of one person from each region, chosen by the Regional Representative from among the qualified persons selected for each respective committee by the State Party Organizations in the region. The National Committee may provide, by election as nominated by the Executive Committee, for a special exception to the regional limit to allow more than one person from each region to serve on these specialized committees;

c. No person shall simultaneously hold more than one of the following positions: Standing Committee Chairman, Standing Committee Vice-Chairman or Officer.”

 

Suggested “Section 1. There shall be Standing Committees as follows.

a. Rules – The Chairman of this Committee shall be the National Committee Chairman and he shall sustain voting rights within this committee.  The Rules Committee shall report to the National Convention. The Rules Committee shall be responsible for: developing and proposing amendments to these Rules and other procedural rules, including amendments thereto, for the conduct of the national convention; such other duties as may be assigned;

b. Platform – The Chairman of this committee shall be a regional representative selected by a majority vote of the members of the Executive Committee.  The Chairman of the National Committee shall be a non-voting member of this committee for the purpose of guidance and  procedure. The Platform Committee shall report to the National Convention. The Platform Committee shall be responsible for: receiving the platform planks adopted by affiliated state party organizations. The received platform planks shall be the basis for recommended planks for adoption by the National Convention based upon planks received from the State Party Organizations; developing and proposing amendments to the national party Statement of Principles; other such duties as may be assigned;

c. Communications – The Chair for this committee will be the Vice Chair of Communications of the National Committee.  The Chairman of the National Committee shall be a non-voting member of this committee for the purpose of guidance and  procedure.  The Communications Committee shall report to the Executive Committee. The Communications Committee shall be responsible for: developing plans to keep party members informed on various public and internal issues; developing internal party communications including maintenance of the national website; other such duties as may be assigned;

d. Finance – The Finance Committee will be chaired by The National Committee Treasurer.  The Chairman of the Executive Committee shall be a non-voting member of this committee for the purpose of guidance and  procedure.  The Finance Committee shall report to the Executive Committee. The Finance Committee shall be responsible for: fundraising at the national level; advising the various State Party Organizations regarding fundraising and other financial issues; other such duties as may be assigned.

[We merged Section 2 of this article to section 1 as it was a continuation of Standing Committees]

 

1. Membership Committee – The Membership Committee chair will be the Vice Chair of Operations for the National Committee.  The Chairman of the Executive Committee shall be a non-voting member of this committee for the purpose of guidance and  procedure.  The Membership Committee shall report to the Executive Committee. The Membership Committee shall be responsible for: creating education materials, supporting activities in states without a state party organization, and holding party building conferences.
2. Credentials and Records Committee – The Secretary of the national Committee shall chair this committee.  The Chairman of the National Committee shall be a non-voting member of this committee for the purpose of guidance and  procedure.  The Credentials and Records Committee shall report to the National Committee and National Convention. It will credential all National Committee delegates before a National Committee meeting. I will credential all National Convention Delegates before a National Convention. Prior to all National Committee meetings or National Conventions, it will take possession of all party records from the Secretary and Treasurer to hand over to successor officers. In the event records are missing or incomplete, the committee will be tasked with making the records whole.

 

[We did away with the regulation of no person shall chair or co-chair two standing committees as the Chairman roles are clearly defined for each]”

 

29. Article 4 Section 2

 

[Section 2 now simply describes how members of standing committees are chosen, no discussion on purpose as is covered solely in section 1]

Suggested “Section 2. Standing Committee members shall serve a term corresponding to that of the Regional Representatives. Standing Committees shall be comprised as follows:

a. Platform: One person from each State Party Organization, chosen by each state party organization according to their rules;

b. Communications, Rules, Credentialing and Records, Membership and Finance: Each committee shall be populated by choice of Executive Committee vote;

 

1. Credentialing and Records: shall consist of one person from each region, chosen by the Regional Representative from among the qualified persons selected for each respective committee by the State Party Organizations in the region ;”

 

30. Article 4 Section 3

 

Original “Section 3. Each Sub-Committee shall report only to its parent Committee. All reports shall have been adopted by majority vote of the Standing Committee; each committee may provide for a minority report.”

 

Suggested “Section 3. All reports shall be adopted by majority vote of the Standing Committee and given to the Executive Committee; each committee is permitted to provide a dissenting report.”

 

31. Article 4 Section 5

 

Original “Section 5. Each Standing Committee shall meet as necessary to conduct the committee's business. Committee meetings may be called by the Committee Chairman or upon action of any two of the committee members. Standing Committees may meet by teleconference or other electronic means. “

 

Suggested “Section 5. Each Standing Committee shall meet as necessary to conduct the committee's business, but not less than monthly. Committee meetings may be called by the Committee Chairman or upon action of any two of the committee members.”

 

32. Article 4 Section 6

 

Original “Section 6. Any standing committee member repeatedly found to be in violation of the rules shall be reported by the committee chairman to the entity selecting the offending member for resolution or corrective action.”

 

Suggested “Section 6. Any standing committee member repeatedly found to be in violation of the rules shall be reported by the Standing Committee Chairman to the entity selecting the offending member for resolution or corrective action.

 

1. A member of any of the Standing Committees may also be removed by a ¾ majority vote by Standing Committee members as well.”

 

33. Article 4 Section 8

 

Original “Section 8. The National Chairman shall appoint each standing committee's chairman from among that committee's members, based on qualifications, with the approval of the Executive Committee”

 

Suggested: Deleted due to redundancy as how members and Chairman are chosen is previously detailed.

34. Article 5

 

Original “ARTICLE V Special Committees

Section 1. Special Committees may be established for specific purposes within the authority of the creating assembly, by action of the Executive Committee, or National Committee:

a. Members of any Special Committee shall be selected by the authority creating the committee;

b. The National Chairman shall appoint each special committee's chairman from among that committee's members, based on qualifications, with the approval of the Executive Committee.

c. The responsibilities of each Special Committee shall be stated when the committee is established;

d. The membership of each Special Committee shall be announced prior to the first committee meeting;

e. Each Special Committee shall be subject to the provisions of these Rules and to the resolutions and directives of its creating authority.

Section 2. A Special Committee shall meet at the call of its chairman or upon action of any two members and may conduct business by teleconference or other electronic means.

Section 3. Each Special Committee shall report to its creating authority. Any Sub-Committee shall report to its parent Committee. All reports shall have been adopted by a majority vote.”

 

Suggested “ARTICLE V Special Committees

Section 1. Special Committees may be established for specific purposes within the authority of the creating assembly, by action of the Executive Committee, or National Committee:

a. Members of any Special Committee shall be selected by the authority creating the committee;

b. The Executive Committee shall appoint each special committee's chairman from among that committee's members, based on qualifications. [reworded for simplification]

c. The responsibilities of each Special Committee shall be stated when the committee is established by the creating entity;

d. The membership of each Special Committee shall be announced prior to the first committee meeting;

e. All members of the Special Committee will be appointed by the Executive Committee and upon completion of the Special Committee's function, the Chairman shall present a report of the committee and if present, a dissenting report.

 

2. Each Special Committee shall be subject to the provisions of these Rules and to the resolutions and directives of its creating authority.
   
   Section 2. A Special Committee shall meet at the call of its Chairman or upon action of any two members.
   
   Section 3. The Chairman of a Special Committee upon completion of its function shall report to its creating authority and if present, give a dissenting report as well.”

 

35. Article 6

 

Original “ARTICLE VI National Committee Officers

Section 1. The National Committee Officers shall be Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Secretary, and Treasurer.

Section 2. The Officers shall have the following responsibilities:

a. The Chairman shall preside over meetings of the National Committee and Executive Committee, appoint the standing and special committee chairmen with the approval of the Executive Committee, and act on behalf of the party to carry out the resolutions of the National Convention, the Executive Committee, and the National Committee;

b. The Vice-Chairman shall assist the Chairman and serve as the presiding officer in the absence of the Chairman;

c. The Secretary shall: have custody of the official copy of these Rules and any other rules adopted by the party; attend all National Conventions, National Committee and Executive Committee meetings and record the proceedings thereof, maintain the records (except financial) of the party; provide official notice of all National Conventions and meetings of the Executive Committee and National Committee; perform other duties as may be assigned by the National Convention, National Committee, or Executive Committee;

d. The Treasurer shall: have custody of the party funds and shall keep full and accurate records thereof in books belonging to the party; deposit all monies and other valuable effects to the name and to the credit of the Party in such depositories as may be designated by the Executive Committee; prepare and timely file required federal reports; disburse funds in accordance with the resolutions of the Executive Committee or the National Committee; report on the financial status of the Party at each meeting of the Executive Committee and National Committee.

Section 3. Each Officer shall be elected by a majority vote of the National Committee. Each Officer shall be elected by roll call vote, reported by state.

Section 4. Each Officer shall serve for four calendar years and until their successor is elected, with Chairman and Treasurer terms of office beginning January 1 st of the year following the presidential election and with Secretary and Vice-chairman terms of office beginning January 1 st of the 3rd year following the presidential election.

Section 5. To be eligible as an Officer a person must be a member of an affiliated State Party Organization and a current National Committee representative. Nominations shall be accepted from the floor when made by any member of the electing assembly.

Section 6. No Officer shall serve in the same Office for more than three consecutive terms. No person shall serve as an Officer for more than six consecutive terms.

Section 7. An Officer may be removed for cause by a two-thirds vote of the National Committee.

Section 8. Officer vacancies may be filled by a majority vote of the National Committee. A person filling such a vacancy must be eligible for election as a National Officer. An Officer vacancy shall be filled for the remainder of the existing term, and the person so elected shall assume office immediately upon election.  In the event a vacancy occurs for any office, after elections for new terms of office and prior to the beginning of the new term, that vacancy shall be filled by the officer elected to that office for the upcoming term, extending the term of office for that particular office, to include the remainder of the prior term of office.

Section 9. Each Officer shall be subject to the Rules, the directives and actions of the Executive Committee and National Committee.

Section 10. The National Committee Chairman shall be a non-voting ex-officio member of all Standing and Special committees except the Nominations Committee and Credentials Committee.” 

 

Suggested “ARTICLE VI National Committee Officers

Section 1. The National Committee Officers shall be Chairman, Vice-Chairman of Operation, Vice-Chairman of Communications, Secretary, and Treasurer.
[VC of Communications has been created as the responsibilities of the National and ExComm Secretary role are too numerous for a single individual to contend with and maintain the needs of the party in function]

Section 2. The Officers shall have the following responsibilities:

a. The Chairman shall preside over meetings of the National Committee and Executive Committee and act on behalf of the party to carry out the resolutions of the National Convention, the Executive Committee, and the National Committee; [discussion of standing and special committees was removed as it is already outlined]

b. The Vice-Chairmen shall assist the Chairman and serve as the presiding officers in the absence of the Chairman;

c. The Secretary shall have custody of the official copy of these Bylaws & Regulations and any other rules adopted by the National Party; attend all National Conventions, National Committee and Executive Committee meetings and record the proceedings thereof, maintain the records of the party; provide official notice of all National Conventions and meetings of the Executive Committee and National Committee; Record the minutes of any National Committee, National Convention or  Executive Committee and to perform other duties as may be assigned by the National Convention, National Committee, or Executive Committee;

d. The Treasurer shall: have custody of the party funds and shall keep full and accurate records thereof in books belonging to the party; deposit all monies and other valuable effects to the name and to the credit of the Party in such depositories as may be designated by the Executive Committee; prepare and timely file required federal reports; disburse funds in accordance with the resolutions of the Executive Committee or the National Committee; report on the financial status of the Party at each meeting of the Executive Committee and National Committee.

 

3. All National Committee Officers must sign a non-disclosure agreement with the National Party to protect the integrity of the party and its functioning.[added to protect the party]
   
   Section 3. Each Officer shall be elected by a majority vote of the National Committee. Each Officer shall be elected by National Committee vote to be held no earlier the Sept 31st and later than Nov 15th of that year.  Upon completion of election, the newly elected officers will assume their duties at midnight Jan 1st of the following year.
   
   Section 4. Each Officer shall serve for four calendar years and until their successor is elected, with Chairman and Treasurer terms of office beginning January 1 st of the year following the presidential election and with Secretary and Vice-chairmen terms of office beginning January 1 st of the 3rd year following the presidential election.
   
   Section 5. To be eligible as an Officer a person must be a member of an affiliated State Party Organization level 3 in accordance to Article VII General Provisions and a current National Committee representative. Unless there are less than 17 Level 3 State Affiliates, in which case a member of a Level 2 State Affiliate may be nominated by a member of the existing Executive Committee Officers. Nominations shall be accepted from the floor when made by any member of the electing assembly.
   
   Section 6. No Officer shall serve in the same Office for more than three consecutive terms. No person shall serve as an Officer for more than six consecutive terms.
   
   Section 7. An Officer may be removed for cause by a two-thirds vote of the National Committee.
   
   Section 8. Officer vacancies may be filled by a majority vote of the National Committee. A person filling such a vacancy must be eligible for election as a National Officer as outlined previously in Section 5 of this Article. An Officer vacancy shall be filled for the remainder of the existing term, and the person so elected shall assume office immediately upon election.  In the event a vacancy occurs for any office, after elections for new terms of office and prior to the beginning of the new term, that vacancy shall be filled by the officer elected to that office for the upcoming term, extending the term of office for that particular office, to include the remainder of the prior term of office.
   
   Section 9. Each Officer shall be subject to the rules, the directives and actions of the Executive Committee and National Committee.

 

[Section 10 was removed as the Chairman's role in Standing and Special Committteees has already been defined in this document]

 

36. Article VII

 

Original “ARTICLE VII State Party Organizations

Section 1. An Affiliated State Party Organization shall be responsible for conducting all Reform Party state level business and affairs in its constituent state and for providing for the successful operation of a state political party, which is in keeping with the Principles and Object of the Reform Party of the United States of America. No state party organization shall be obligated to use the name Reform Party.

Section 2. An affiliated State Party Organization shall be responsible for establishing and maintaining minimal levels of party organization, including local, county and state, in keeping with the operation of a state political party. A state convention should be comprised of delegates from a designated pre-state level convention.

Section 3. The affiliated State Party Organizations shall comprise the membership of the Reform Party.

Section 4. Affiliation shall be granted to no more than one State Party Organization in any state, the District of Columbia, or territory of the United States of America. Each State Party Organization shall be subject to the laws of their state and any applicable federal laws.

Section 5. An affiliated State Party Organization shall be eligible to receive all the Delegate seats, which are available to be allocated to the State Party Organization. An affiliated State Party Organization shall be eligible to participate without restriction in the national affairs of the Reform Party, including all sessions of the National Convention and all national committees, subject only to the limitations contained in these Rules.

Section 6. An affiliated State Party Organization shall ensure that any registered delegate departing prior to the convention's adjournment checks out with the Credentials Committee before leaving.

Section 7. Each Affiliated State Party Organization and each organization which seeks affiliation, shall provide the Secretary with:

a. True, current and complete copies of its Constitution, Rules, or Rules;

b. Copies of all legally required state organizational filings;

c. Any appropriate additional information as is similarly requested of all State Party Organizations;

d. An updated certified list of National Committee Representatives by January 31st in each calendar year. This list may be updated as needed.

Section 8. Official Affiliation of a State Party Organization:

a. Once obtained, Official affiliation shall continue until such time as it is formally removed by a national convention;

b. Additional Official affiliations shall be granted by a recorded vote of the National Convention;

c. Official affiliation of a State Party Organization may be removed by a two-thirds vote of the registered Delegates of the National Convention.

Section 9. Temporary Affiliation of a State Party Organization:

a. Temporary Affiliation shall be granted by a two-thirds vote of the National Committee;

b. Temporary Affiliation shall continue until such time as it is removed or until the close of the National Convention following affiliation; Temporary affiliation automatically and immediately expires on adjournment of the session of the National Convention that follows the date such Temporary Affiliation was granted;

c. Temporary Affiliation grants all rights to the State Party Organization which an Officially Affiliated State Party Organization with the exceptions that:

1. A member of a State Party Organization which has Temporary affiliation shall not be eligible to be elected as an Officer or Regional Representative,
   
   2. A member of a State Party Organization which has been granted Temporary affiliation shall not be entitled to vote on questions pertaining to affiliation of his or her own State Party Organization.

Section 10. Suspension of Official Affiliation of a State Party Organization:

a. Official Affiliation of a State Party Organization may be suspended only by a two-thirds vote of the registered Delegates of the National Convention;

b. Such suspension shall be imposed by means of a Resolution of the National Convention. Such a Resolution shall:

1. Specify the reason and basis for the suspension,
   
   2. specify the provisions of the Rules that support the suspension,
   
   3. specify the conditions under which the suspension shall be lifted,
   
   4. specify the end date of the suspension time period,
   
   5. specify the manner in which the fulfillment of such conditions shall be verified, and
   
   6. specify the authority that shall verify fulfillment of such conditions;
2. 
   Such suspension shall not exceed a period of twelve calendar months;
   
   d. The votes of members of a State Party Organization that is so suspended shall not be counted;
   
   e. A State Party Organization which is so suspended and which fails to fulfill the conditions to lift such suspension shall automatically and immediately forfeit its Official affiliation upon the end date of such suspension.
   
   Section 11. A State Party Organization should allow none of its National Committee seats to remain vacant for more than sixty days from the effective date of a written resignation or removal from position.
   
   Section 12. A State Party Organization that is not affiliated with the national Reform Party of the United States of America shall not use the Reform Party name.” 

 

Suggested [This is a complete rewrite of this section to help delineate powers and responsibilities of State Organizations to and within the National Party] “ARTICLE VII State Party Organizations

Section 1. An Affiliated State Party Organization shall be responsible for conducting all Reform Party state level business and affairs in its constituent state and for providing for the successful operation of a state political party, which is in keeping with the Principles and Object of the Reform Party of the United States of America. No state party organization shall be obligated to use the name Reform Party.  At no time shall an unaffiliated State Party Organization be allowed to utilize the Reform Party service marks.

Section 2.  The Reform Party recognizes the need and so creates a leveling system of Affiliated State Organizations, of which there are three:

1. Level 1:  A level one state affiliate has yet to form a state executive committee or file any paperwork with the National Party. It’s ability to act within the bounds of the national party are limited to: No member of a Level 1 State Organization may hold officer or regional representative status on the National Committee, Members must request to the national Secretary to be seated at the National Convention by a 2/3 majority vote of the National Convention, when credentialed and accepted to a National Convention, this act does not recognize the Affiliated State for any other or future national activities.  At least one member of a Level 1 Affiliated State Organization must make contact in writing, telephone or in person with the Regional Representative on a monthly basis.  An Affiliated State Organization promotes to Level 2 when the Executive Committee appoints at minimum of 2 members to State Organizing Committee officers.
2. Level 2: A level two state affiliate is recognized when the Executive Committee identifies and recognizes at least two active members of the party as leadership of the State Organizing Committee.  These affiliates however cannot have members elected to National Committee Officers positions unless Article VI Section 5 is in effect. Members of a Level 2 also may only be allowed to sit as a non-voting member of any National Standing Committee, again unless the individual has been made a National Committee Officer according to Article VI Section 5.  A Level 2 affiliate may participate in the National Convention, if the acting Secretary of this affiliate requests to be seated by the National Convention Secretary and the National Convention approves by a 2/3 majority vote.  The Secretary of a Level 2 Affiliated State Organization must make contact in writing, telephone or in person with the Regional Representative and the National Secretary on a monthly basis.  Two members of the Affiliate State Organization's State Organizing Committee must sign an agreement of intent to seek a full Affiliation Agreement with the National Committee.   The Executive Committee reserves the right to dissolve a Level 2 Affiliate State Organizations if deemed appropriate by the Executive Committee officers.  
3. Level 3: A level three state affiliate must have: a set of governing documents, a governing body that meets at least quarterly, and has signed an affiliation agreement with the National Committee, and has petitioned and been approved by 2/3 National Convention of all present Level 3 affiliate delegates only vote to become a Level 3 Affiliate State Organization.  All Level 3 Affiliate Organizations must complete their state and federal required filings in a timely manner as required by National Party by-laws, as well as state and federal laws.

Section 3:  All state parties must sign an affiliation agreement and/or reaffirm their agreement to state affiliation annually by no later than Jan 31st.

 

Section 4. The affiliated State Party Organizations shall comprise the membership of the Reform Party in their respective states.

Section 5. Affiliation shall be granted to no more than one State Party Organization in any state, the District of Columbia, or territory of the United States of America. Each State Party Organization shall be subject to the laws of their state and any applicable federal laws.  No recognized Affiliated State Organization, at any level, may be affiliated with any other political party.

Section 6. Any affiliated State Party Organization of Level 3 shall be eligible to receive all the Delegate seats, which are available to be allocated to the State Party Organization. An affiliated State Party Organization of level 3 shall be eligible to participate without restriction in the national affairs of the Reform Party, including all sessions of the National Convention and all national committees, subject only to the limitations contained in these Rules.  Affiliated State Party Organizations of  Level 1 or 2 are granted only the rights and abilities as outlined in this article section 2 b&c respectively.

Section 7. An affiliated State Party Organization shall ensure that any registered delegate departing prior to the convention's adjournment is removed from the National and State Party registers.

Section 8. Each Affiliated State Party Organization and each organization which seeks affiliation, shall provide the Secretary with:
a. True, current and complete copies of its Constitution, Rules and regulations, and list of Officers;

b. Copies of all legally required state organizational filings;

c. A signed Intent to Affiliate or a signed Affiliation Agreement by the State Chair and Secretary.

9. Any appropriate additional information as is similarly requested of all State Party Organizations;
   
   e. An updated certified list of National Committee Representatives by January 31st in each calendar year. This list may be updated as needed.
   
   Section 9. Demotion and Termination of  Affiliation Level 3 State Party Organization:
   
   a. A Level 3 Affiliation of a State Party Organization may be demoted or terminated only by a two-thirds vote of the registered Affiliated State Organization Level 3 Delegates of the National Convention.  A state cannot vote in regards to its own demotion or termination. Both actions the National Committee must show cause in regards to;
   
   b. Such demotions shall be re-evaluated once the now level 1 or 2 State affiliate reapplies for level 3 status with the National Convention;
10. A termination is a permanent action of the National Convention and only an application to be recognized as a newly formed Level 1 or 2 affiliate State Organization may be contemplated by the Executive Committee but the leadership of a Level 2 must be new to that State Organization;
    
    Section 11. A State Party Organization should allow none of its National Committee seats to remain vacant for more than sixty days from the effective date of a written resignation, abandonment of office, or removal from position.
    
    Section 12. A State Party Organization that is not affiliated with the national Reform Party of the United States of America shall not use the Reform Party name or any of its service marks without threat of legal action.

Section 13. A state party can only break a signed affiliation agreement if it files an intent to leave with the National Secretary, and is released by a majority vote of National Convention delegates from Affiliate State Organizations level 3, excluding the delegates of the State Organization petitioning for separation.  

Section 14. Districts and Territories of the United States that form an affiliation with the Reform Party and reach Level 3 organizational status shall enjoy 1 National Committee member and 3 National Convention delegates each.”

 

37. Article VIII

 

Original “ARTICLE VIII General Provisions

Section 1. All financial reports and all budget reports, given or approved by any Reform Party Committee or any Reform Party Officer, shall be prepared in keeping with the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles as are established by the Financial Standards and Accounting Board.

Section 2. No dues, fees, financial assessments, administrative fees, subscription fees or member fees shall be implemented or required.

Section 3. No Officer or Committee member shall be compensated for services rendered except for reimbursement of legitimate personal expenses incurred in the performance of one's official duties.

Section 4. An officer shall resign his office upon announcing as a candidate for any public office.

Section 5. A staff member of a candidate for nomination may not hold a party office.

Section 6. The minutes of all Reform Party meetings shall be available upon request.

Section 7. There shall be no proxy voting or voting by proxy.

Section 8. Definitions of certain words used in the Rules shall be such that:

a. The words "Party" and "Reform Party" shall mean the Reform Party of the United States of America;

b. The words "State Party Organization" shall mean an organized body of citizens who have formed an organization for the purpose of nominating candidates for public office and obtaining ballot access for candidates in the name of the organization;

c. An affiliated Party Organization in the District of Columbia shall also be identified as a "State Party Organization" with one (1) Congressional District Delegate and one (1) National Committee Representative for a total of two National Convention Delegates. U.S. Territories and Possessions establishing Party Organizations shall each, upon affiliation, also be identified as a "State Party Organization" with one (1) National Committee Representative and one Congressional District Delegate for a total of two National Convention Delegates;

d. The words "Party Member" shall mean, in the context of the Reform Party of the United States of America, a State Party Organization that is affiliated (and therefore a member) of the RPUSA;

e. The words “Party Member” shall mean, in the context of a State Party Organization, any person eligible to vote in the next election of the President of the United States who identifies himself or herself as a member of the affiliated State Party Organization in his state of residence and meets such requirements as provided in the Rules of their State Party Organization;

f. The word “delegate” shall mean a State Party Organization member who has been selected according to State Party Organization rules to attend the National Convention to whom the State Party Organization has “delegated” some of its authority to act in the name of the State Party Organization;

g. The words “certified list” shall mean, with respect to delegates or national committee representatives, a list of State Party Organization members submitted by the State Party Organization Secretary for use in registering delegates or national committee representatives for a convention or meeting;

h. The words “registered delegate” shall mean those delegates (certified by their State Party Organization) who have registered (signed in) as attending that convention;

i. The words “registered National Committee representative” shall mean those National Committee representatives (certified by their State Party Organization) who have registered (signed in) as attending a particular meeting;

j. The words "mail", "by mail" or "mailed to" shall mean delivery of a written document or documents. Delivery may be made via the First Class Mail service of the United States Postal Service, or via a delivery service that is as or more reliable and that is as fast or faster than the United States Postal Service such as electronic email;

k. The words "vote by mail" shall include fax or other electronic means such as email provided the response can be reliably verified as originating from the qualified voting individual;

l. The words "proper" or "properly" shall mean in keeping with all applicable provisions of these Rules, the adopted parliamentary authority, and all applicable provisions of the rules of State Party Organizations and their state laws;

m. The word "meeting" shall also include teleconferences, video conferences, computer conferences or other electronic means allowing for direct interaction by the qualified participants, provided all participants can be reliably verified, and for which official minutes are taken or a transcript is made documenting the participants and any actions taken;

n. A “session” for the national committee shall mean a meeting or series of connected meetings with a single adopted agenda;

o. An adjourned meeting may only conclude unfinished business from the original meeting;

p. The term “day-to-day business” shall include all matters related to monetary donations and expenditures;

q. The word “ambiguity” shall mean an individual rule that is susceptible to more than one meaning;

r. The phrase “shall serve for two calendar years AND until their successor is elected” shall mean that the individual’s term of office lasts for a minimum of two years from the date they take office and will continue past the two years until their successor is elected.

Section 9. No person shall hold any position provided for in these Rules who is not a member of an affiliated State Party Organization.

Section 10. Honorary titles or positions may be conferred upon individuals by Resolution of the National Convention.

Section 11. The interpretation, meaning and effect to be given the provisions of the Rules shall not be inconsistent with federal law or common parliamentary usage.” 

 

Suggested “ARTICLE VIII General Provisions

Section 1. All financial reports and all budget reports, given or approved by any National Reform Party Committee or any National Reform Party Officer, shall be prepared in keeping with the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles as are established by the Financial Standards and Accounting Board and shall be kept by the National Treasurer to be presented to the National Committee annually.

Section 2. No dues, fees, financial assessments, administrative fees, subscription fees or member fees shall be implemented or required from the National Reform Party of the United States or any of its affiliates. 

Section 3. No Officer or Committee member shall be compensated for services rendered except for reimbursement of legitimate personal expenses incurred in the performance of one's official duties.

Section 4. An officer of the National Committee shall resign his office upon announcing as a candidate for any federal office.

Section 5. A staff member of a candidate for nomination may not hold a party office and must disclose their role in the nominee's campaign to the National Convention.

Section 6. The minutes of all Reform Party meetings shall be available upon request 30 days after the meeting has been adjourned.

 

Section 7. There shall be no voting by proxy.

Section 8. Definitions of certain words used in these Bylaws and Regulations shall be such that:

a. The words "Party" and "Reform Party" shall mean the Reform Party of the United States of America or RPUSA;

b. The words "State Party Organization" shall mean an organized body of citizens who have formed an organization for the purpose of nominating candidates for public office and obtaining ballot access for candidates in the name of the organization;

c. The words "Party Member" shall mean, in the context of the Reform Party of the United States of America, a State Party Organization that is affiliated (and therefore a member) of the RPUSA; [c. from the original has been removed as the definition of affiliates is fully described in Article VII]

d. The words “Party Member” shall mean, in the context of a State Party Organization, any person eligible to vote in the next election of the President of the United States who identifies himself or herself as a member of the affiliated State Party Organization in his state of residence and meets such requirements as provided in the Rules of their State Party Organization;

e. The word “delegate” shall mean a State Party Organization member who has been selected according to State Party Organization rules to attend the National Convention to whom the State Party Organization has “delegated” some of its authority to act in the name of the State Party Organization in regards to voting or making recommendations to the National Convention;

f. The words “certified list” shall mean, with respect to delegates or national committee representatives, a list of State Party Organization members submitted by the State Party Organization Secretary for use in registering delegates or national committee representatives for a convention or meeting;

g. The word “registered” shall mean those delegates or representatives(certified by their State Party Organization) who have registered (signed in) as attending that meeting;

h. The words "mail", "by mail", "mailed to", or “email” shall mean delivery of a written document or documents. Delivery may be made via the First Class Mail service of the United States Postal Service, or via a delivery service that is as or more reliable and that is as fast or faster than the United States Postal Service such as electronic email; [This definition does away with the need for definition k. in regards to vote by mail]

i. The words "proper" or "properly" shall mean in keeping with all applicable provisions of these Bylaws and Regulations, the adopted parliamentary authority, and all applicable provisions of the rules of State Party Organizations and their state laws, as well as any governing state or federal regulations;

j. The word "meeting" shall also include in person, teleconferences, video conferences, computer conferences or other electronic means allowing for direct interaction by the qualified participants, provided all participants can be reliably verified, and for which official minutes are taken or a transcript is made documenting the participants and any actions taken;

k. A “session” for the national committee shall mean a meeting or series of connected meetings with a single adopted agenda;

l. An adjourned meeting may only conclude unfinished business from the original meeting;

m. The term “day-to-day business” shall include all matters related to monetary donations and expenditures, party decision making, and clerical functions;

n. The word “ambiguity” shall mean an individual rule or process that is susceptible to more than one meaning;

o. The phrase “shall serve for two calendar years AND until their successor is elected” shall mean that the individual’s term of office lasts for a minimum of two years from the date they take office and will continue past the two years until their successor is elected.

Section 9. No person shall hold any position provided for in these Bylaws & Regulations who is not a member of an affiliated State Party Organization according to Article VII.

Section 10. Honorary titles or positions may be conferred upon individuals by Resolution of the National Convention.

Section 11. The interpretation, meaning and effect to be given the provisions of the Bylaws & Regulations shall not be inconsistent with federal law or common parliamentary usage.”

 

38. Article IX Individual Rights is no longer needed or relevant due to the current lay out of Affiliated State Organizations.

 

39. Article X &XI

 

Original “ARTICLE X Parliamentary Authority and Interpretation

Section 1. The rules contained in the current edition of "Robert's Rules of Order, Newly Revised" shall govern all meetings and conventions in all cases to which they are applicable and are not specifically inconsistent with these Rules.

Section 2. Interpretation of the meaning and effect to be given to the provisions of the Rules shall be as determined by the National Convention. A single rule ambiguity may be interpreted by the assembled national committee if the intent of the national convention cannot be ascertained.

ARTICLE XI Amendment

These Rules may be amended by a two-thirds vote of the National Convention. Previous notice is required for any proposal that could infringe any right of an affiliated State Party Organization.”

 

Suggested “ ARTICLE IX Parliamentary Authority and Interpretation

Section 1. The rules contained in the current edition of "Robert's Rules of Order, Newly Revised" shall govern all meetings and conventions in all cases to which they are applicable and are not specifically inconsistent with these Bylaws and Regulations.

Section 2. Interpretation of the meaning and effect to be given to the provisions of the Bylaws and Regulations shall be as determined by the National Convention. A single rule ambiguity may be interpreted by the assembled national committee if the intent of the national convention cannot be ascertained.

ARTICLE X Amendment

These Bylaws and Regulations may be amended by a two-thirds vote of the National Convention. Previous notice is required for any proposal that could infringe any right of an affiliated State Party Organization.”