Bylaws of the Western Montana Local Chapter
of Democratic Socialists of America
Adopted 12/15/2018; approved by the National Political Committee in the current form 3/26/2019
Please Note: These bylaws are currently being rewritten. Click Here for information about the updates.
ARTICLE I. Name.
The name of this Local Chapter shall be the Democratic Socialists of America, Western Montana ("Western MT DSA"), a local chapter ("Chapter") of the Democratic Socialists of America ("DSA"). The name is taken from the region of Montana that the Chapter will serve. DSA is a not-for-profit corporation.
ARTICLE II. Purpose.
The Western MT Local Chapter of Democratic Socialists of America seeks to facilitate the transition to a truly democratic and socialist society, one in which the means/resources of production are democratically and socially controlled.
DSA rejects an economic order based solely on private profit, alienated labor, gross inequalities of wealth and power, discrimination based on race, gender or sexual orientation, and brutality and violence in defense of the status quo.
DSA envisions a humane social order based on popular control of resources, production, and economic planning, equitable distribution, gender and racial equality, and non-oppressive relationships.
Our conception of socialism is a profoundly democratic one. It is rooted in the belief that human beings should be free to develop to their fullest potential, that public policies should be determined not by wealth but by popular participation, and that individual liberties should be carefully safeguarded. It is committed to a freedom of speech that does not recoil from dissent, to a freedom to organize independent trade unions, women’s groups, political parties, and other formations -- recognizing these as essential bulwarks against the dangers of an intrusive state. It is committed to a freedom of religion that acknowledges the rights of those for whom spiritual concerns are central.
We are socialists because we are developing a concrete strategy for achieving that vision. In the present, we are building a visible socialist presence within the broad democratic Left. In the long run, we hope to build a majority movement capable of making democratic socialism a reality in the United States. Our strategy acknowledges the class structure of the U.S. society. This class structure means that there is a basic conflict of interest between those sectors with enormous economic power and the vast majority of the population.
ARTICLE III. Membership.
Section 1. Qualifications.
Membership shall be open to dues-paying members of the DSA whom reside and/or work in Missoula, Mineral, Ravalli, Sanders or southern Lake County areas, otherwise known as western Montana and are not members of another DSA Chapter. Individuals may not be members of the Local Chapter without being members of national DSA. It will be the responsibility of members to approve policies and guidelines for the operation of the Local Chapter, to elect delegates to the national convention, to vote on matters related to national policy, and to make recommendations on issues and other matters to the National Political Committee of DSA.
Section 2. Dues and Voluntary Donations.
Annual dues are set by the DSA National and must be paid to the DSA National office. As mandated by the national Constitution and Bylaws, the Local Chapter may establish a Local Chapter pledge system of voluntary donations for its members. The payment of a Local Chapter donation may not be a requirement for voting or for holding Local Chapter office.
Section 3. "Good Standing."
Members are considered in "good standing" provided that they are considered in good standing with DSA National.
Section 4. Removal of Members.
If a member in good standing is found to be in substantial disagreement with the principles or policies of national DSA, or if they are found to be consistently engaging in undemocratic, disruptive behavior, or if they are found to be under the discipline of any democratic centralist organization, the Local Chapter may vote to expel them from the Local Chapter of DSA. In order for such a finding to be made, another DSA member must formally proffer written charges against the member in question to the Local Chapter Executive Committee, which will set the date of a Local Chapter meeting for deliberations on the charges. The member in question must receive a copy of the written charges and notice of the meeting a minimum of two (2) weeks before that meeting takes place. Expulsion of a member requires a two-thirds vote of the Local Chapter meeting. An expelled member in good standing may appeal to the National Political Committee of DSA.
In addition, pending the outcome of an investigation, grievance, or disciplinary process, the Executive Committee by majority vote may temporarily suspend a member’s access to any Chapter communication channels, social media, events, meetings, or other spaces if necessary to protect the safety of individuals or the Chapter.
Any member of the Executive Committee who cannot reasonably be expected to fairly adjudicate an investigation, grievance, or disciplinary process (such as if they are the complainant or if their own behavior is at issue) shall automatically be recused. All voting thresholds shall be based on the number of non-recused Executive Committee members.
Section 5. Sexual Harassment and Anti-Discrimination Policy.
The Local Chapter will follow the Harassment Policy of national DSA. Sexual harassment and discrimination on the basis of such inappropriate grounds as age, disability, national origin, race, religion, gender or sexual identity or orientation are antithetical to the principles of democratic socialism and to the vision and mission of Western MT DSA. A member determined to have engaged in sexual harassment or inappropriate discrimination shall be deemed to be in substantial disagreement with the principles or policies of Western MT DSA and may be considered for suspension or expulsion under Article III Section 4.
Western MT DSA may adopt a formal policy that defines sexual harassment and inappropriate discrimination for purposes of this section and/or prescribes procedures for resolving allegations of sexual harassment or inappropriate discrimination.
Section 6. Privacy Concerns.
Care will be taken to protect the privacy of each member’s contact information.
ARTICLE IV. Local Chapter Meetings.
Section 1. General Meeting.
Western MT DSA will hold a minimum of one (1) General Meeting annually for purposes of electing officers. All members of the Local Chapter will be sent notice of, and an agenda for, the General Meeting with at least 30 days notice. Notice may be sent by electronic means, but individuals who have not provided an email address must be sent a paper copy. The members will elect officers, may adopt an annual budget and decide program direction. In general, it is the highest legislative body of the Local Chapter. The General Meeting may coincide with a Regular Meeting.
Section 2. Regular Meetings.
Western MT DSA shall hold Regular Meetings at least four (4) times annually, the time and place of which will be set in a schedule published and distributed by the Executive Committee. The Regular Meetings will set Local Chapter policy and work priorities, reports from any working groups with relevant updates, political education as well as open time for members to raise items not included on the meeting agenda.
The Executive Committee will set the agenda for Regular Meetings. In general, the Regular Meeting is the operating legislative body of the Local Chapter.
Section 3. Emergency Meetings.
The Executive Committee may call an Emergency Meeting of the Local Chapter on five (5) days’ notice when an urgent and important matter requires deliberation. The call to the Emergency Meeting shall specify the matters to be discussed therein and during the meeting, no other matter may be brought to the floor.
Section 4. Voting.
Every member in good standing of the chapter shall have voting rights at General, Emergency and Regular Meetings. Members shall have the ability to renew DSA dues at the start of the General Meeting.
Section 5. Quorum.
A quorum of 10 percent of the members (but not fewer than five (5) persons) is required for General, Regular, or Emergency Meetings to transact business.
ARTICLE V. Officer Positions and Duties.
Section 1. Officers and Terms.
The officers of Western MT DSA will be the two Co-Chairs, Secretary, Treasurer, and Communications Director. The term of office will be one year, and will run from January through December or until their successors are elected. No officer may hold more than one officer position at a time. At least 2 officers or 40%, whichever is greater, must not identify as male.
Section 2. Vacancies.
In the event of a vacancy in any office, the Western MT DSA Executive Committee will appoint a replacement for the remainder of the term.
Section 3. Co-Chairs.
The Co-Chairs will be the chief executive officers of the organization. They will preside over Local Chapter and Executive Committee meetings or will appoint a substitute to assume the powers and duties of the presiding officer. The Co-Chairs will be the official public spokespersons for Western MT DSA and will initiate such actions and policies as the organization’s general welfare may demand. The Co-Chairs must not both identify as male.
The Co-Chairs will be responsible also for coordinating the day-to-day operations and political work of the Local Chapters Branches and Committees.
The Co-Chairs will report to Local Chapter Regular Meetings on the business of the Executive Committee Meetings, at which time a copy of the minutes of those meetings will be available for inspection.
Section 4. Secretary.
The Secretary shall be responsible for answering all correspondence and queries of Western MT DSA, and for maintaining an up-to-date membership list, including notifying members when their dues need to be renewed. They will ensure effective communication with national DSA. They will temporarily assume the responsibilities of the Co-Chair, if neither Co-Chair is able to do so.
The Secretary will be responsible also for the taking of minutes of all Local Chapter and Executive Committee Meetings, and will have custody of these minutes, and the resolutions, reports and other official records. They will transfer official records in good condition to their successor. Official records will include meeting minutes and member lists.
Section 5. Treasurer.
The Treasurer shall have custody of all funds and financial records of the organization. All funds collected by the organization will be turned over to the Treasurer, who will deposit them in a bank account under the name of Western MT DSA. In cooperation with the Secretary, the Treasurer will be responsible for ensuring that membership dues are paid up-to-date. The Treasurer will prepare the annual budget and deliver the financial report to the General Meeting, as well as periodic progress reports as requested by the Executive Committee of Western MT DSA. They will transfer official records in good condition to their successor. Official records will include all banking information, spreadsheets and financial records.
Section 6. Communications Director.
The Communications Director shall be responsible for maintaining communication with Working Groups and be a de facto member of each working group. They will be responsible for managing the social media communications of Western MT DSA in concert with the Executive Committee.
Section 7. Additional Duties.
The Executive Committee may assign additional temporary duties to an officer of Western MT DSA, so long as such assignments do not conflict with the designation of responsibilities outlined in these Bylaws.
ARTICLE VI. Executive Committee.
Section 1. Composition.
The Executive Committee will be composed of the five (5) officers of the Local Chapter and the chair(s) of any Local Chapter Branches.
Section 2. Duties.
The Executive Committee administers the affairs of Western MT DSA and oversees the implementation of the decisions of the General and Regular Meetings; it may also propose policy to the General and Regular Meetings. It will have the power to receive reports of any Committee or Branch, and advise thereon, to call Emergency Meetings of the organization, and to act on any matter that requires immediate and urgent action. The Executive Committee is the regular executive body of Western MT DSA, and thus subordinate to its Legislative bodies, the General and Regular Meetings.
The Western MT DSA Executive Committee will be responsible for establishing program activities for the organization, for proposing guidelines and policies that will subsequently be voted on by members in good standing of DSA, and for acting on the organization’s behalf between Chapter meetings.
Section 3. Meetings.
The Executive Committee shall meet as a whole at least once per quarter (in person or by conference call). Those meetings shall be open to chapter members unless the Committee goes into executive session by two-thirds vote of the Committee. Meetings of the Executive Committee may also be held at the call of one (1) of the Co-Chairs at such intervals as may be determined by a prior Executive Committee Meeting or by consultation with any three (3) members of the Executive Committee. All members of the Executive Committee must (ordinarily) be given four (4) days oral, written, or electronic notice of regular Executive Committee Meetings; a 24-hour notice may be given under special emergency circumstances.
Section 4. Quorum.
A quorum of a simple majority, including at least three (3) of the five (5) officers, is required for the transaction of Executive Committee business.
ARTICLE VII. Branches.
Section 1. Definition.
A Branch is a subgroup of Western MT DSA consisting of at least five (5) members in good standing with national DSA. Branches may be defined by geography or language. The chairs of Branches will hold membership on the organizations Executive Committee.
Young Democratic Socialists of America (YDSA) Chapters within the geographic area defined by Western MT DSA may affiliate as a Branch, in which case the local YDSA Chapter may send a representative to the Executive Committee.
ARTICLE VIII. Committees.
Section 1. Duration.
The organization will have Ad Hoc Committees or Working Groups, which will exist for a limited and explicit duration. Ad Hoc Committees may be established by a vote of members in good standing at a Regular Meeting.
Section 2. Duties.
Chairs of Ad Hoc Committees will keep the Executive Committee and the Regular Meetings of the organization informed on the activities of the committee.
ARTICLE IX. Delegates to National, Regional, and State Bodies.
Section 1. Election of Delegates.
Delegates and alternates to the National DSA Convention, as well as to any regional or state organizations, will be elected by members in good standing. Elections for the National Convention delegation will be held on the schedule announced by the national organization. Elections to regional or state organizations will be held on the schedule announced by those organizations.
Section 2. Method of Voting.
Following Article V, Section 5 of national DSA’s Constitution, delegates to the National Convention must be elected by secret ballot. Following Article VI, Section 3, of national DSA’s Bylaws, Local Chapters “may determine their own method of election of delegates to the Convention except that a petition from 10% of a Local’s membership or a motion supported by 15% of those present and voting at the Local meeting which determines the method of election will require the use of the Hare system in that Local’s election of delegates to the National Convention.”
ARTICLE X. Prohibited Activity.
Western MT DSA shall not engage in activity prohibited by the IRS guidelines established for 501(c)(4) organizations or similar rules established by the state of Montana. Nor will the organization engage in any activity prohibited by resolutions adopted by DSA’s National Convention or DSA’s National Political Committee.
ARTICLE XI. Nominations, Elections, and Recall.
Section 1. Nominations Committee.
A three (3)-person Nominations Committee shall be established at least one (1) month prior to every election by vote of a Regular Meeting. It will solicit and receive nominations for the positions to be elected.
Section 2. Nominations Process.
Nominations for officers and delegates to the National Convention will be opened at least ten (10) days before and closed at the meeting at which elections take place. The call for nominations will be announced to all members in good standing of DSA as soon as nominations are open.
Section 3. Uncontested Positions.
If a position is uncontested, the nominee may be declared elected by acclamation.
Section 4. Recall.
Any officer of Western MT DSA Chapter of DSA may be recalled for malfeasance or failure to fulfill their duties or obligations as an officer. In order to recall or remove an officer, a member in good standing must formally refer a request to remove said officer to the Executive Committee, which will set a date of a Chapter meeting for deliberations on the accused officer’s removal. The officer in question must receive written documentation of the specific reasons for the removal request and notice of the meeting a minimum of two (2) weeks before the meeting takes place. The accused officer will be given a chance to speak in their own defense at this meeting. Removal of an officer requires a two-thirds vote of the Chapter meeting.
ARTICLE XII. Amendments.
Proposed amendments to these Bylaws must be made by written resolution, endorsed by five (5) members of the Western MT Chapter of DSA and submitted to the Executive Committee at least one (1) month in advance of a General or Regular Meeting. The Executive Committee is required to provide the Local Chapter membership with at least two (2) weeks’ written or electronic notice of the proposed amendments. The amendment must be approved by a majority vote of two (2) consecutive (Regular or General) Chapter meetings.
ARTICLE XIII. Rules of the Local Chapter.
Section 1. Interpretation.
These bylaws shall be interpreted by the Co-Chairs, subject only to appeal by the Executive Committee or by a resolution at the General or Emergency meeting. All powers not delegated to committees or working group either defined in these bylaws or granted through vote of the membership are reserved to the membership.
Section 2. Rules.
The rules contained in the current edition of Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly Revised shall govern the organization in cases to which they are applicable and in which they are not inconsistent with these Bylaws or standing rules of Western MT DSA. Consensus decision-making is desirable where feasible, but meetings must submit to Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly Revised upon the request of a member.
Section 3. Action Out of Order.
Any action taken by an officer or member of Western MT DSA in contravention of these Bylaws is null and void.
ARTICLE XIV. Dissolution.
Upon dissolution of the organization, any residual assets shall become property of the national organization of Democratic Socialists of America.
The name of this Local Chapter shall be the Democratic Socialists of America, Western Montana ("Western MT DSA"), a local chapter ("Chapter") of the Democratic Socialists of America ("DSA"). The name is taken from the region of Montana that the Chapter will serve. DSA is a not-for-profit corporation.
ARTICLE II. Purpose.
The Western MT Local Chapter of Democratic Socialists of America seeks to facilitate the transition to a truly democratic and socialist society, one in which the means/resources of production are democratically and socially controlled.
DSA rejects an economic order based solely on private profit, alienated labor, gross inequalities of wealth and power, discrimination based on race, gender or sexual orientation, and brutality and violence in defense of the status quo.
DSA envisions a humane social order based on popular control of resources, production, and economic planning, equitable distribution, gender and racial equality, and non-oppressive relationships.
Our conception of socialism is a profoundly democratic one. It is rooted in the belief that human beings should be free to develop to their fullest potential, that public policies should be determined not by wealth but by popular participation, and that individual liberties should be carefully safeguarded. It is committed to a freedom of speech that does not recoil from dissent, to a freedom to organize independent trade unions, women’s groups, political parties, and other formations -- recognizing these as essential bulwarks against the dangers of an intrusive state. It is committed to a freedom of religion that acknowledges the rights of those for whom spiritual concerns are central.
We are socialists because we are developing a concrete strategy for achieving that vision. In the present, we are building a visible socialist presence within the broad democratic Left. In the long run, we hope to build a majority movement capable of making democratic socialism a reality in the United States. Our strategy acknowledges the class structure of the U.S. society. This class structure means that there is a basic conflict of interest between those sectors with enormous economic power and the vast majority of the population.
ARTICLE III. Membership.
Section 1. Qualifications.
Membership shall be open to dues-paying members of the DSA whom reside and/or work in Missoula, Mineral, Ravalli, Sanders or southern Lake County areas, otherwise known as western Montana and are not members of another DSA Chapter. Individuals may not be members of the Local Chapter without being members of national DSA. It will be the responsibility of members to approve policies and guidelines for the operation of the Local Chapter, to elect delegates to the national convention, to vote on matters related to national policy, and to make recommendations on issues and other matters to the National Political Committee of DSA.
Section 2. Dues and Voluntary Donations.
Annual dues are set by the DSA National and must be paid to the DSA National office. As mandated by the national Constitution and Bylaws, the Local Chapter may establish a Local Chapter pledge system of voluntary donations for its members. The payment of a Local Chapter donation may not be a requirement for voting or for holding Local Chapter office.
Section 3. "Good Standing."
Members are considered in "good standing" provided that they are considered in good standing with DSA National.
Section 4. Removal of Members.
If a member in good standing is found to be in substantial disagreement with the principles or policies of national DSA, or if they are found to be consistently engaging in undemocratic, disruptive behavior, or if they are found to be under the discipline of any democratic centralist organization, the Local Chapter may vote to expel them from the Local Chapter of DSA. In order for such a finding to be made, another DSA member must formally proffer written charges against the member in question to the Local Chapter Executive Committee, which will set the date of a Local Chapter meeting for deliberations on the charges. The member in question must receive a copy of the written charges and notice of the meeting a minimum of two (2) weeks before that meeting takes place. Expulsion of a member requires a two-thirds vote of the Local Chapter meeting. An expelled member in good standing may appeal to the National Political Committee of DSA.
In addition, pending the outcome of an investigation, grievance, or disciplinary process, the Executive Committee by majority vote may temporarily suspend a member’s access to any Chapter communication channels, social media, events, meetings, or other spaces if necessary to protect the safety of individuals or the Chapter.
Any member of the Executive Committee who cannot reasonably be expected to fairly adjudicate an investigation, grievance, or disciplinary process (such as if they are the complainant or if their own behavior is at issue) shall automatically be recused. All voting thresholds shall be based on the number of non-recused Executive Committee members.
Section 5. Sexual Harassment and Anti-Discrimination Policy.
The Local Chapter will follow the Harassment Policy of national DSA. Sexual harassment and discrimination on the basis of such inappropriate grounds as age, disability, national origin, race, religion, gender or sexual identity or orientation are antithetical to the principles of democratic socialism and to the vision and mission of Western MT DSA. A member determined to have engaged in sexual harassment or inappropriate discrimination shall be deemed to be in substantial disagreement with the principles or policies of Western MT DSA and may be considered for suspension or expulsion under Article III Section 4.
Western MT DSA may adopt a formal policy that defines sexual harassment and inappropriate discrimination for purposes of this section and/or prescribes procedures for resolving allegations of sexual harassment or inappropriate discrimination.
Section 6. Privacy Concerns.
Care will be taken to protect the privacy of each member’s contact information.
ARTICLE IV. Local Chapter Meetings.
Section 1. General Meeting.
Western MT DSA will hold a minimum of one (1) General Meeting annually for purposes of electing officers. All members of the Local Chapter will be sent notice of, and an agenda for, the General Meeting with at least 30 days notice. Notice may be sent by electronic means, but individuals who have not provided an email address must be sent a paper copy. The members will elect officers, may adopt an annual budget and decide program direction. In general, it is the highest legislative body of the Local Chapter. The General Meeting may coincide with a Regular Meeting.
Section 2. Regular Meetings.
Western MT DSA shall hold Regular Meetings at least four (4) times annually, the time and place of which will be set in a schedule published and distributed by the Executive Committee. The Regular Meetings will set Local Chapter policy and work priorities, reports from any working groups with relevant updates, political education as well as open time for members to raise items not included on the meeting agenda.
The Executive Committee will set the agenda for Regular Meetings. In general, the Regular Meeting is the operating legislative body of the Local Chapter.
Section 3. Emergency Meetings.
The Executive Committee may call an Emergency Meeting of the Local Chapter on five (5) days’ notice when an urgent and important matter requires deliberation. The call to the Emergency Meeting shall specify the matters to be discussed therein and during the meeting, no other matter may be brought to the floor.
Section 4. Voting.
Every member in good standing of the chapter shall have voting rights at General, Emergency and Regular Meetings. Members shall have the ability to renew DSA dues at the start of the General Meeting.
Section 5. Quorum.
A quorum of 10 percent of the members (but not fewer than five (5) persons) is required for General, Regular, or Emergency Meetings to transact business.
ARTICLE V. Officer Positions and Duties.
Section 1. Officers and Terms.
The officers of Western MT DSA will be the two Co-Chairs, Secretary, Treasurer, and Communications Director. The term of office will be one year, and will run from January through December or until their successors are elected. No officer may hold more than one officer position at a time. At least 2 officers or 40%, whichever is greater, must not identify as male.
Section 2. Vacancies.
In the event of a vacancy in any office, the Western MT DSA Executive Committee will appoint a replacement for the remainder of the term.
Section 3. Co-Chairs.
The Co-Chairs will be the chief executive officers of the organization. They will preside over Local Chapter and Executive Committee meetings or will appoint a substitute to assume the powers and duties of the presiding officer. The Co-Chairs will be the official public spokespersons for Western MT DSA and will initiate such actions and policies as the organization’s general welfare may demand. The Co-Chairs must not both identify as male.
The Co-Chairs will be responsible also for coordinating the day-to-day operations and political work of the Local Chapters Branches and Committees.
The Co-Chairs will report to Local Chapter Regular Meetings on the business of the Executive Committee Meetings, at which time a copy of the minutes of those meetings will be available for inspection.
Section 4. Secretary.
The Secretary shall be responsible for answering all correspondence and queries of Western MT DSA, and for maintaining an up-to-date membership list, including notifying members when their dues need to be renewed. They will ensure effective communication with national DSA. They will temporarily assume the responsibilities of the Co-Chair, if neither Co-Chair is able to do so.
The Secretary will be responsible also for the taking of minutes of all Local Chapter and Executive Committee Meetings, and will have custody of these minutes, and the resolutions, reports and other official records. They will transfer official records in good condition to their successor. Official records will include meeting minutes and member lists.
Section 5. Treasurer.
The Treasurer shall have custody of all funds and financial records of the organization. All funds collected by the organization will be turned over to the Treasurer, who will deposit them in a bank account under the name of Western MT DSA. In cooperation with the Secretary, the Treasurer will be responsible for ensuring that membership dues are paid up-to-date. The Treasurer will prepare the annual budget and deliver the financial report to the General Meeting, as well as periodic progress reports as requested by the Executive Committee of Western MT DSA. They will transfer official records in good condition to their successor. Official records will include all banking information, spreadsheets and financial records.
Section 6. Communications Director.
The Communications Director shall be responsible for maintaining communication with Working Groups and be a de facto member of each working group. They will be responsible for managing the social media communications of Western MT DSA in concert with the Executive Committee.
Section 7. Additional Duties.
The Executive Committee may assign additional temporary duties to an officer of Western MT DSA, so long as such assignments do not conflict with the designation of responsibilities outlined in these Bylaws.
ARTICLE VI. Executive Committee.
Section 1. Composition.
The Executive Committee will be composed of the five (5) officers of the Local Chapter and the chair(s) of any Local Chapter Branches.
Section 2. Duties.
The Executive Committee administers the affairs of Western MT DSA and oversees the implementation of the decisions of the General and Regular Meetings; it may also propose policy to the General and Regular Meetings. It will have the power to receive reports of any Committee or Branch, and advise thereon, to call Emergency Meetings of the organization, and to act on any matter that requires immediate and urgent action. The Executive Committee is the regular executive body of Western MT DSA, and thus subordinate to its Legislative bodies, the General and Regular Meetings.
The Western MT DSA Executive Committee will be responsible for establishing program activities for the organization, for proposing guidelines and policies that will subsequently be voted on by members in good standing of DSA, and for acting on the organization’s behalf between Chapter meetings.
Section 3. Meetings.
The Executive Committee shall meet as a whole at least once per quarter (in person or by conference call). Those meetings shall be open to chapter members unless the Committee goes into executive session by two-thirds vote of the Committee. Meetings of the Executive Committee may also be held at the call of one (1) of the Co-Chairs at such intervals as may be determined by a prior Executive Committee Meeting or by consultation with any three (3) members of the Executive Committee. All members of the Executive Committee must (ordinarily) be given four (4) days oral, written, or electronic notice of regular Executive Committee Meetings; a 24-hour notice may be given under special emergency circumstances.
Section 4. Quorum.
A quorum of a simple majority, including at least three (3) of the five (5) officers, is required for the transaction of Executive Committee business.
ARTICLE VII. Branches.
Section 1. Definition.
A Branch is a subgroup of Western MT DSA consisting of at least five (5) members in good standing with national DSA. Branches may be defined by geography or language. The chairs of Branches will hold membership on the organizations Executive Committee.
Young Democratic Socialists of America (YDSA) Chapters within the geographic area defined by Western MT DSA may affiliate as a Branch, in which case the local YDSA Chapter may send a representative to the Executive Committee.
ARTICLE VIII. Committees.
Section 1. Duration.
The organization will have Ad Hoc Committees or Working Groups, which will exist for a limited and explicit duration. Ad Hoc Committees may be established by a vote of members in good standing at a Regular Meeting.
Section 2. Duties.
Chairs of Ad Hoc Committees will keep the Executive Committee and the Regular Meetings of the organization informed on the activities of the committee.
ARTICLE IX. Delegates to National, Regional, and State Bodies.
Section 1. Election of Delegates.
Delegates and alternates to the National DSA Convention, as well as to any regional or state organizations, will be elected by members in good standing. Elections for the National Convention delegation will be held on the schedule announced by the national organization. Elections to regional or state organizations will be held on the schedule announced by those organizations.
Section 2. Method of Voting.
Following Article V, Section 5 of national DSA’s Constitution, delegates to the National Convention must be elected by secret ballot. Following Article VI, Section 3, of national DSA’s Bylaws, Local Chapters “may determine their own method of election of delegates to the Convention except that a petition from 10% of a Local’s membership or a motion supported by 15% of those present and voting at the Local meeting which determines the method of election will require the use of the Hare system in that Local’s election of delegates to the National Convention.”
ARTICLE X. Prohibited Activity.
Western MT DSA shall not engage in activity prohibited by the IRS guidelines established for 501(c)(4) organizations or similar rules established by the state of Montana. Nor will the organization engage in any activity prohibited by resolutions adopted by DSA’s National Convention or DSA’s National Political Committee.
ARTICLE XI. Nominations, Elections, and Recall.
Section 1. Nominations Committee.
A three (3)-person Nominations Committee shall be established at least one (1) month prior to every election by vote of a Regular Meeting. It will solicit and receive nominations for the positions to be elected.
Section 2. Nominations Process.
Nominations for officers and delegates to the National Convention will be opened at least ten (10) days before and closed at the meeting at which elections take place. The call for nominations will be announced to all members in good standing of DSA as soon as nominations are open.
Section 3. Uncontested Positions.
If a position is uncontested, the nominee may be declared elected by acclamation.
Section 4. Recall.
Any officer of Western MT DSA Chapter of DSA may be recalled for malfeasance or failure to fulfill their duties or obligations as an officer. In order to recall or remove an officer, a member in good standing must formally refer a request to remove said officer to the Executive Committee, which will set a date of a Chapter meeting for deliberations on the accused officer’s removal. The officer in question must receive written documentation of the specific reasons for the removal request and notice of the meeting a minimum of two (2) weeks before the meeting takes place. The accused officer will be given a chance to speak in their own defense at this meeting. Removal of an officer requires a two-thirds vote of the Chapter meeting.
ARTICLE XII. Amendments.
Proposed amendments to these Bylaws must be made by written resolution, endorsed by five (5) members of the Western MT Chapter of DSA and submitted to the Executive Committee at least one (1) month in advance of a General or Regular Meeting. The Executive Committee is required to provide the Local Chapter membership with at least two (2) weeks’ written or electronic notice of the proposed amendments. The amendment must be approved by a majority vote of two (2) consecutive (Regular or General) Chapter meetings.
ARTICLE XIII. Rules of the Local Chapter.
Section 1. Interpretation.
These bylaws shall be interpreted by the Co-Chairs, subject only to appeal by the Executive Committee or by a resolution at the General or Emergency meeting. All powers not delegated to committees or working group either defined in these bylaws or granted through vote of the membership are reserved to the membership.
Section 2. Rules.
The rules contained in the current edition of Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly Revised shall govern the organization in cases to which they are applicable and in which they are not inconsistent with these Bylaws or standing rules of Western MT DSA. Consensus decision-making is desirable where feasible, but meetings must submit to Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly Revised upon the request of a member.
Section 3. Action Out of Order.
Any action taken by an officer or member of Western MT DSA in contravention of these Bylaws is null and void.
ARTICLE XIV. Dissolution.
Upon dissolution of the organization, any residual assets shall become property of the national organization of Democratic Socialists of America.