The COVID-19 pandemic has completely altered our lives, including how we interact as an organization. To reflect these alterations, we have decided to amend our bylaws slightly to codify the need to meet virtually in the event of an emergency situation. Two sections of our bylaws will be affected (the added verbiage is in bold text):
Article V, Section 2:
Southwest Democrats shall meet monthly at a regularly scheduled location and time with the exception of special circumstances or holidays. For the purpose of conducting organizational business—in the event of a Natural Disaster or an Emergency Declaration by the Harris County Judge, Texas Governor or President of the United States, or where the Executive Committee has determined it's not safe for the members, an online, virtual meeting will be considered a valid meeting. In the event such a situation occurs, the Organization can continue all the functions necessary via online, virtual meeting. In order to be considered a valid, online, virtual meeting—members must be able to see and communicate with one another for discussion and voting purposes either verbally or through written text which can be viewed by all participants.
Article VI, Section 1
Bylaws changes that are in conflict with official bylaws of record may be amended by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the members in good standing who are present and voting at a meeting provided the proposed amendment has been read as a proposed amendment at the preceding meeting by email and on the web 30 days in advance. Bylaw revisions not in conflict with the current bylaws shall be adopted by a majority vote of the members in good standing present and voting at a meeting. For the purpose of conducting organizational business—in the event of a Natural Disaster or an Emergency Declaration by the Harris County Judge, Texas Governor or President of the United States, or where the Executive Committee has determined it's not safe for the members, an online, virtual meeting will be considered a valid meeting. In the event such a situation occurs, the Organization can continue all the functions necessary via online, virtual meeting. In order to be considered a valid, online, virtual meeting—members must be able to see and communicate with one another for discussion and voting purposes either verbally or thru written text which can be viewed by all participants. Voting on simple business can be by voice vote or through an accessible texting section visible by the group. Other voting can be made by roll call, show of hands or through text programs which can be viewed by all and captured for transparency.
You may view the current bylaws here: https://www.southwestdemocrats.org/s/Southwest-Democrats-Bylaws-July-2019.pdf
The membership will be voting on these proposed changes at our September 2020 meeting. Any questions, comments, or concerns should be emailed to info@southwestdemocrats.org