Constitution & By-Laws
NCSM Constitution
The NCSM Constitution was last modified in 1995.
During fall 2007, the NCSM Constitution underwent an extensive review by a sub-committee of NCSM Board members. The amendments to the Constitution were presented to the Board in writing for review. They were discussed and approved on April 5, 2008 during the Board Meeting in Salt Lake City. As required, once approved by the NCSM Board, all the constitutional amendments were sent to the NCSM Membership to be ratified. Ballots were sent and returned via US mail and counted. The amendments to the NCSM Constitution were approved by an overwhelming majority of votes and took effect immediately unless otherwise stipulated.
What is the purpose of the constitution? The constitution describes the general founding principles and structure of an organization. It describes long-term fundamental facts including the organization's purpose; affiliation and constituency; governing body and structure; election and appointment eligibility, procedures, and terms; and policy.
The constitution remains relatively constant during the life of the organization. It changes little and only if needed when there is considerable change in focus, goals, or structure. The constitution is intended to be written simply and clearly so that all who read it-organizational leaders, members, and the general public-easily understand the purpose, principles, and structure of the organization. Because the constitution provides the foundation for the organization, constitutional amendments must be voted on by the membership to be ratified.
NCSM By-Laws
The NCSM By-Laws underwent the same extensive review as did the NCSM Constitution in fall 2007. The amendments to the By-Laws were submitted to the NCSM Board in writing. The entire Board discussed the amendments. Voting members of the Board approved the amendments during the same meeting on April 5, 2008 in Salt Lake City. The new NCSM By-Laws took effect immediately unless otherwise stipulated.
What is the purpose of the by-laws? The by-laws describe the day-to-day operational and administrative procedures of an organization. Like the constitution, the by-laws are written simply and clearly so that all who read it-organizational leaders, members, and the general public-easily understand the organizational operations. The by-laws remain fluid during the life of the organization, changing as the organization grows and develops, keeping pace with organizational needs, available technology, etc. Amendments to the by-laws only require the requisite votes for approval from the Board, because of operational nature of the by-laws. Like the constitution, the by-laws guide the organization.
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