Hello everyone!
I'm Eliza Kragh,
and today I'm joined by Mark Apodaca, a parliamentary procedure expert.
Today we're discussing an essential topic regarding reprimands.
Mark, could you explain how a member properly reprimands a board member?
Robert's Rules contains three chapters on disciplinary procedures.
It's important to note that discipline and reprimand are two distinct concepts.
We must first consider the reason for the reprimand.
The organization's bylaws should address how to handle such situations.
Policy procedures should also provide guidance on this matter.
Typically, reprimands are handled within the board itself.
After the conference concludes, newly elected officers begin their terms.
Most state organizations operate with two-year officer terms.
The board assumes primary responsibility for organizational governance.
Members may communicate concerns to the board through email or direct approach.
However, the board must take appropriate action.
If specific procedures aren't outlined in the bylaws or policy manual,
the organization's objectives become the guiding principles.
When a board member violates these objectives, the governance committee addresses the issue.
The governance committee meets with the board member to seek resolution.
If the president determines no violation occurred, but the board disagrees, they may challenge this decision.
The board can inform the president of clear violations of organizational objectives.
The president must then decide whether to agree or disagree with these concerns.
Members may challenge the president's ruling by declaring it "out of order."
If the president dismisses this concern despite evidence of an objective violation,
members can motion to appeal the president's decision, requiring a second to proceed.
Members may request the president's explanation for the ruling.
The president must provide their reasoning.
Members may present opposing viewpoints if they disagree with the president's decision.
The membership can vote to override the president's decision.
For serious violations of organizational objectives, the board may issue a reprimand.
The board maintains authority during their two-year term to operate the organization.
This concludes the reprimand procedure.
You've explained how the board can reprimand a board member.
What rights do individual members have in this process?
Evidence must be gathered to support any violation claims.
Documentation such as emails can serve as evidence of violations.
Without evidence, there is no basis for disciplinary action.
Hearsay evidence cannot justify reprimands, as this may lead to further complications.
Documented proof makes the violation actionable.
The board should develop comprehensive guidance and policies.
These should outline procedures for handling violations and implementing reprimands.
Due process procedures must be clearly defined.
Without established due process, reprimands cannot be properly executed.
This leads to ongoing organizational challenges.
Clear guidance for due process is essential.
When serious violations occur, these guidelines provide a framework for action.
Many organizations lack proper due process procedures in their policies.
Some boards have issued reprimands without sufficient justification.
For organizational efficiency, establish clear due process guidelines for reprimands.
This prevents unnecessary complications and delays.
Members should review bylaws for existing due process procedures.
Should these be absent, amendments can be proposed at annual meetings.
I recommend adding these to policy procedure guidance.
They shouldn't be in the bylaws.
Bylaws explain the structure of the organization,
how it's established and operated.
Policy procedures explain how to handle emerging issues.
These policies guide the board in resolving issues.
Without policy guidelines, issue resolution becomes challenging.
Organizations with strong policies successfully resolve issues through established guidance.
Publishing policies on the organization's website increases member accessibility.
During their term, the board maintains authority over reprimand processes.
Members need access to both bylaws and procedures to understand their rights.
Both documents are essential for organizational function.
New members should receive copies of bylaws for review.
Bylaws explain organizational structure.
Policy manuals detail procedures for organizational operations.
Additionally...
Many bylaws I've reviewed lack a code of conduct.
These should address conflicts of interest, confidentiality, and bylaw violations.
Many bylaws omit these elements.
This creates potential organizational challenges.
A code of conduct is essential in organizational bylaws.
Policy procedures should expand on these guidelines.
This prevents complications and delays.
Education is indeed the key.
Understanding parliamentary procedures benefits both board and members.
Do you recommend this specific book?
[Shows Robert's Rules of Order Newly Revised In Brief]
This book provides a concise overview of Robert's Rules of Order.
It's an excellent resource.
For deeper understanding, consult Robert's Rules of Order Newly Revised, 12th Edition.
The brief version references specific sections in the complete edition.
It's valuable for learning basic parliamentary procedures.
It's designed for clear understanding and implementation.
I encourage organization members to start with this book.
Apply this knowledge during annual meetings.
Familiarize yourself with state nonprofit statutes regarding annual meetings.
Understanding parliamentary procedure prepares members for effective participation.
This enhances meeting efficiency.
I recommend purchasing this version.
Education enables collective growth.
Together we can advance the Deaf community.
As a Professional Registered Parliamentarian, I complete annual continuing education.
Our training workshops span multiple days.
Ongoing education is required.
We must understand various perspectives.
I've had excellent instructors.
Many are certified parliamentary procedure educators.
I regularly attend NAP conferences and leadership training sessions.
Topics include bylaws and disciplinary procedures.
Thank you for explaining due process for all members.
I recommend purchasing this helpful guide.
Thank you, Mark!