Constitution & Standing Rules
Carol Kottom – Chairman
The backbone of every organization is their rules. They should be written in the best interest of the members.
Members should be encouraged to participate in determining what their rules will be.
The ALAFORVETERANS.ORG website has the preferred form for writing and submitting proposed changes to the rules for our Units, District and Department documents. It is called “Three Column Amendment Template”. There is also the form to write a resolution called the “Resolution Form Template” which we used for a resolution that does not pertain to our existing rules. We do accept either format.
These fundamental rules of the organization state how the membership agrees to govern itself, how it will choose its leaders, hold its meetings, and policies of the administration of the organization.
The unit standing rules are strictly for your unit. May contain your fundraisers, memorials for members, do you pay dues for anyone, do you buy gifts for your officers at yearend – things that may be unique to your unit.
All of Minnesota’s governing documents are reviewed annually. Input from members is greatly appreciated.
Is there something in our Unit Bylaws, Unit Constitution, District Constitution/Bylaws, Department Constitution/Bylaws or the Department Standing Rules that you would like to see changed, added or removed? Let me know! It will be reviewed and if we agree, it will be presented at our Department Convention. You can find the current documents on Minnesota’s website. MNALA.ORG On the blue bar select “About Us”. From the drop down select “Governing Documents” and you will find all available documents and forms mentioned above. We do not post standing rules for the units or districts.
Our rules cannot conflict with the National rules. When the national constitution, bylaws, and standing rules change, departments, districts, counties, and units will automatically amend their governing documents to reflect the National changes. These changes do not require a proposal or resolution.
Everyone should be familiar with the governing documents – read them all!
Need help? Call, text or email me. Glad to help.
