What can we put in bylaws?

[Guest skt]

Hi,

Can we put policies like a no-pet policy in our bylaws?

From Robert:"contains its own basic rules that relate to itself as an organization, except for what must be included in the corporate charter of an incorporated society."

1. it is not required in our corporate charter

2. there is no statute requiring or forbidding this

3. the bylaws are our highest governing document

4. our board sets policies

5. we want this policy in a document controlled by the members, not just the board

6. a no-pet policy seems like a basic rule that relates to us as an organization

7. this isn't something I've seen in standard bylaws

 

Opinions please?

Thank you

[Rev Ed]

Double check with a lawyer, but I see no problem.  As far as RONR is concerned, the organization can decide upon its own rules.

[Josh Martin]

Can we put policies like a no-pet policy in our bylaws?

From Robert:"contains its own basic rules that relate to itself as an organization, except for what must be included in the corporate charter of an incorporated society."

1. it is not required in our corporate charter

2. there is no statute requiring or forbidding this

3. the bylaws are our highest governing document

4. our board sets policies

5. we want this policy in a document controlled by the members, not just the board

6. a no-pet policy seems like a basic rule that relates to us as an organization

7. this isn't something I've seen in standard bylaws

 

Based on the facts provided, it seems to be in order. The bylaws can contain anything except what conflicts with a higher level-rule, and you say that it does not. As you note, this isn't something you've seen in standard bylaws. Most societies would probably put this in a lower-level rule, but you've provided several reasons why it is desirable for your organization to put it in the bylaws.

 

By the way, in addition to the basic rules defining the organization, RONR also notes that the bylaws "includes all rules that the society considers so important that they (a) cannot be changed without previous notice to the members and the vote of a specified large majority (such as a two-thirds vote), and (b ) cannot be suspended (with the exception of clauses that provide for their own suspension under specified conditions, or clauses in the nature of rules of order as described on p. 17, ll. 22–25; see also pp. 263–65, 580–82)." (RONR, 11th ed., pg. 13)

[Guest skt]

Thanks for the quick and thorough replies.

skt

Inver Grove Heights, MN