Official Record of Bylaws Modifications

Article V: Board of Directors
Section 1: Composition of Board Directors
Article VI: Duties of Officers
Section 6: Duties of Professional Development Director
Section 9: Outreach and Recruitment Director
Article VII: Election and Appointment of Officers
Section 1: Officers to be Elected and/or Appointed
Section 3: Election Procedures

Rationale:
ASLTA has found a greater need for a Conference Director than an Outreach and Recruitment Director.

Voted in Favor: 83

Voted Against: 2

Abstained: 2

Current Language:

Article V – BOARD of DIRECTORS
Section 1, Composition of Board of Directors. The President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Evaluation and Certification Director, Recruitment and Outreach Director, Professional Development Director, Communications Director, and ASLHS National Coordinator shall constitute the Board of Directors, and shall be responsible for business matters of the organization between regular meetings. All Board of Directors members, with the exception of the President, shall be voting members of the Board. In case of a tie vote, the President will cast a vote to break the tie.

Article VI – DUTIES of OFFICERS
Section 6, Duties of Professional Development Director. The Professional Development Director shall be responsible for coordinating all aspects of professional development activities, including but not limited to conference planning and coordinating professional development opportunities for ASLTA members.

Section 9, Duties of Recruitment and Outreach Director. The Recruitment and Outreach Director shall be responsible for coordinating effort to expand membership. In addition, the Recruitment and Outreach Director will be responsible for coordination of the biennial General Meetings.

ARTICLE VII – ELECTION and APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS
Section 1, Officers to be Elected and/or Appointed. The officers to be elected, and who shall serve until their successors are duly elected, shall be President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Professional Development Director, and Communications Director. The additional Board of Director positions, ASLHS National Director and Evaluation and Certification Director are appointed by the Board of Directors. All nine (9) positions shall be members of the Board of Directors. The President, Vice President, Evaluation and Certification Director, and Professional Development Director must hold ASLTA permanent Master certification, be members in good standing for at least two years prior to the election or appointment to the Board of Directors, and have a minimum of one year of service experience. The Secretary, Treasurer, Recruitment and Outreach Director, and Communications Director must hold a minimum Certified certification, be members in good standing for at least two years prior to election or appointment to the Board of Directors, and have a minimum of one year of service experience.

Section 3, Election Procedures. There shall be alternating elections every two (2) years. Groups of officers to be elected in alternate elections are as follows: 1. The President, Secretary, and Professional Development Director, and 2. The Vice President, Treasurer, Recruitment and Outreach Director, and Communications Director. Elections will take place by electronic ballot through the ASLTA website to be opened at 12:00 am on the second day of the biennial meeting in the time zone where the meeting is held and closed at 11:59 pm on the second day of the biennial meeting in the time zone where the meeting is held. All voting members in good standing 30 days before the biennial meeting shall be provided with one (1) electronic ballot. Election results will be announced at the regular biennial meeting, in the ASLTA newsletter and on the ASLTA website.

Proposed Language:

Article V – BOARD of DIRECTORS

Section 1, Composition of Board of Directors. The President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Evaluation and Certification Director, Recruitment and Outreach Director, Conference Director, Professional Development Director, Communications Director, and ASLHS National Coordinator shall constitute the Board of Directors, and shall be responsible for business matters of the organization between regular meetings. All Board of Directors members, with the exception of the President, shall be voting members of the Board. In case of a tie vote, the President will cast a vote to break the tie.

Article VI – DUTIES of OFFICERS
Section 6, Duties of Professional Development Director. The Professional Development Director shall be responsible for coordinating all aspects of professional development activities, including but not limited to conference planning and coordinating professional development opportunities for ASLTA members. curate and oversee all educational programming, including webinars, symposiums, and ongoing learning opportunities. For biennial conferences, the Director is responsible for the selection and coordination of educational content, including workshops, keynotes, and plenary presenters. 

Section 9, Duties of Recruitment and Outreach Director. The Recruitment and Outreach Director shall be responsible for coordinating effort to expand membership. In addition, the Recruitment and Outreach Director will be responsible for coordination of the biennial General Meetings.

Section 9, Duties of Conference Director. The Conference Director shall develop and oversee the conference framework, lead logistical and operational planning, manage venue and service contracts, and serve as the central point of contact for the biennial General Meetings.

ARTICLE VII – ELECTION and APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS
Section 1, Officers to be Elected and/or Appointed. The officers to be elected, and who shall serve until their successors are duly elected, shall be President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Professional Development Director, and Communications Director. The additional Board of Director positions, Conference Director, ASLHS National Director and Evaluation and Certification Director are appointed by the Board of Directors. All nine (9) positions shall be members of the Board of Directors. The President, Vice President, Evaluation and Certification Director, and Professional Development Director must hold ASLTA permanent Master certification, be members in good standing for at least two years prior to the election or appointment to the Board of Directors, and have a minimum of one year of service experience. The Secretary, Treasurer, Conference Director, Recruitment and Outreach Director, and Communications Director must hold a minimum Certified certification, be members in good standing for at least two years prior to election or appointment to the Board of Directors, and have a minimum of one year of service experience.

Section 3, Election Procedures. There shall be alternating elections every two (2) years. Groups of officers to be elected in alternate elections are as follows: 1. The President, Secretary, and Professional Development Director, and 2. The Vice President, Treasurer, Recruitment and Outreach Director, and Communications Director. Elections will take place by electronic ballot through the ASLTA website to be opened at 12:00 am on the second day of the biennial meeting in the time zone where the meeting is held and closed at 11:59 pm on the second day of the biennial meeting in the time zone where the meeting is held. All voting members in good standing 30 days before the biennial meeting shall be provided with one (1) electronic ballot. Election results will be announced at the regular biennial meeting, in the ASLTA newsletter and on the ASLTA website.

Language, if adopted, would read:

Article V – BOARD of DIRECTORS
Section 1, Composition of Board of Directors. The President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Evaluation and Certification Director, Conference Director, Professional Development Director, Communications Director, and ASLHS National Coordinator shall constitute the Board of Directors, and shall be responsible for business matters of the organization between regular meetings. All Board of Directors members, with the exception of the President, shall be voting members of the Board. In case of a tie vote, the President will cast a vote to break the tie.

Article VI – DUTIES of OFFICERS
Section 6, Duties of Professional Development Director. The Professional Development Director shall curate and oversee all educational programming, including webinars, symposiums, and ongoing learning opportunities. For biennial conferences, the Director is responsible for the selection and coordination of educational content, including workshops, keynotes, and plenary presenters. 

Section 9, Duties of Conference Director. The Conference Director shall develop and oversee the conference framework, lead logistical and operational planning, manage venue and service contracts, and serve as the central point of contact for the biennial General Meetings.

ARTICLE VII – ELECTION and APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS
Section 1, Officers to be Elected and/or Appointed. The officers to be elected, and who shall serve until their successors are duly elected, shall be President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Professional Development Director, and Communications Director. The additional Board of Director positions, Conference Director, ASLHS National Director and Evaluation and Certification Director are appointed by the Board of Directors. All nine (9) positions shall be members of the Board of Directors. The President, Vice President, Evaluation and Certification Director, and Professional Development Director must hold ASLTA permanent Master certification, be members in good standing for at least two years prior to the election or appointment to the Board of Directors, and have a minimum of one year of service experience. The Secretary, Treasurer, Conference Director, and Communications Director must hold a minimum Certified certification, be members in good standing for at least two years prior to election or appointment to the Board of Directors, and have a minimum of one year of service experience.

Section 3, Election Procedures. There shall be alternating elections every two (2) years. Groups of officers to be elected in alternate elections are as follows: 1. The President, Secretary, and Professional Development Director, and 2. The Vice President, Treasurer, and Communications Director. Elections will take place by electronic ballot through the ASLTA website to be opened at 12:00 am on the second day of the biennial meeting in the time zone where the meeting is held and closed at 11:59 pm on the second day of the biennial meeting in the time zone where the meeting is held. All voting members in good standing 30 days before the biennial meeting shall be provided with one (1) electronic ballot. Election results will be announced at the regular biennial meeting, in the ASLTA newsletter and on the ASLTA website.

Article III: Membership
Section 1: Membership Categories

Rationale:
Institutional membership has greatly decreased over the years and energy is better spent elsewhere.

Voted in Favor: 83

Voted Against: 2

Abstained: 2

Current Language:

6. Institutional Member: Educational institutions, agencies, corporations, and other associations which support the mission of the Association may choose to join as an institutional member. Institutional members shall not have voting privileges. The institutional member shall be listed in the Association’s membership directory.

Proposed Language:

6. Institutional Member: Educational institutions, agencies, corporations, and other associations which support the mission of the Association may choose to join as an institutional member. Institutional members shall not have voting privileges. The institutional member shall be listed in the Association’s membership directory.

Language, if adopted, would read:

n/a

Article IV: Duties of Officers
Section 2: Duties of the Vice President
Section 3: Duties of the Secretary

Rationale:
To better align information exchange between committees and the Board as well as record maintenance.

Voted in Favor: 83

Voted Against: 3

Abstained: 1

Current Language:

Section 2, Duties of the Vice President. The Vice President shall serve in the absence of the President. They shall succeed to the office of President should that office become vacant prior to the expiration of the term of office of the President. The Vice President will oversee bylaws compliance, maintenance of Association policies and procedures, and the coordination and implementation of committee work. In addition, the Vice President shall perform all duties as assigned by the President and approved by the Board of Directors.

Section 3, Duties of the Secretary. The Secretary shall keep accurate and complete minutes of all meetings of the organization and the Board of Directors. The Secretary shall keep on file all documents, disks, communications, and other papers related to the business of ASLTA.

Proposed Language:

Section 2, Duties of the Vice President.  The Vice President shall serve in the absence of the President and shall succeed to the office of President should that office become vacant prior to the expiration of the President’s term. The Vice President will oversee bylaws compliance, maintenance of Association policies and procedures., and the coordination and implementation of committee work.. In addition, the Vice President shall perform all other duties as assigned by the President and approved by the Board of Directors.

Section 3, Duties of the Secretary. The Secretary shall keep accurate and complete minutes of all meetings of the organization and the Board of Directors. The Secretary shall keep on file all documents, disks, communications, and other papers related to the business of ASLTA. The Secretary shall also be responsible for the general oversight of all ASLTA committees (standing and ad hoc).

Language, if adopted, would read:

Section 2, Duties of the Vice President.  The Vice President shall serve in the absence of the President and shall succeed to the office of President should that office become vacant prior to the expiration of the President’s term. The Vice President will oversee bylaws compliance, maintenance of Association policies and procedures. In addition, the Vice President shall perform all other duties as assigned by the President and approved by the Board of Directors.

Section 3, Duties of the Secretary. The Secretary shall keep accurate and complete minutes of all meetings of the organization and the Board of Directors. The Secretary shall keep on file all documents, disks, communications, and other papers related to the business of ASLTA. The Secretary shall also be responsible for the general oversight of all ASLTA committees (standing and ad hoc).

Article IX: Committees
Section: 4, Election by Acclamation

Rationale:
This will save time and energy during elections.

Voted in Favor: 87

Voted Against: 0

Abstained: 0

Current Language:

n/a

Proposed Language:

If, upon the closing of the nomination period specified in Section 3, only one qualified candidate has been nominated for an elected office, the Nominations and Elections Committee shall declare that candidate elected by acclamation, and no electronic ballot for that specific office shall be required.

Language, if adopted, would read:

If, upon the closing of the nomination period specified in Section 3, only one qualified candidate has been nominated for an elected office, the Nominations and Elections Committee shall declare that candidate elected by acclamation, and no electronic ballot for that specific office shall be required.

Article IX: Committees
Section 2: Standing Committees

Rationale:
The Finance Committee and Evaluation and Certification committees do not need to meet every month.

Voted in Favor: 84

Voted Against: 3

Abstained: 0

Current Language:

The National ASLTA will have the following five (5) standing committees: Bylaws Committee, Steering Committee, Finance Committee, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee, and Evaluation and Certification Revision Committee. Standing committees shall meet at least once monthly for 10 months between September 1 and August 31, either in-person or via video conferencing.

Proposed Language:

The National ASLTA will have the following five (5) standing committees: Bylaws Committee, Steering Committee, Finance Committee, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee, and Evaluation and Certification Revision Committee. The Finance Committee shall meet at least twice yearly between September 1 and August 31, either in-person or via video conferencing. The Evaluation and Certification Revision Committee shall meet at least once quarterly between September 1 and August 31, either in-person or via video conferencing. The remaining standing committees shall meet at least once monthly for 10 months between September 1 and August 31, either in-person or via video conferencing.

Language, if adopted, would read:

The National ASLTA will have the following five (5) standing committees: Bylaws Committee, Steering Committee, Finance Committee, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee, and Evaluation and Certification Revision Committee. The Finance Committee shall meet at least twice yearly between September 1 and August 31, either in-person or via video conferencing. The Evaluation and Certification Revision Committee shall meet at least once quarterly between September 1 and August 31, either in-person or via video conferencing. The remaining standing committees shall meet at least once monthly for 10 months between September 1 and August 31, either in-person or via video conferencing.

Article VII: Election and Appointment of Officers
Section: 1,  Officers to be Elected and/or Appointed & 3, Nominations Process
Article IX: Committees
Section: 7, Duties of the Evaluation and Certification Revision Committee

Rationale:
This allows for future changes of the titles and/or levels of certification without having to change the bylaws every time.

Voted in Favor: 82

Voted Against: 4

Abstained: 1

Current Language:

ARTICLE VII – ELECTION and APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS
Section 1, Officers to be Elected and/or Appointed. The officers to be elected, and who shall serve until their successors are duly elected, shall be President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Professional Development Director, and Communications Director. The additional Board of  Director positions, ASLHS National Director and Evaluation and Certification Director are appointed by the Board of Directors. All nine (9) positions shall be members of the Board of Directors. The President, Vice President, Evaluation and Certification Director, and Professional Development Director must hold ASLTA permanent Master certification, be members in good standing for at least two years prior to the election or appointment to the Board of Directors, and have a minimum of one year of service experience. The Secretary, Treasurer, Recruitment and Outreach Director, and Communications Director must hold a minimum Certified certification, be members in good standing for at least two years prior to election or appointment to the Board of Directors, and have a minimum of one year of service experience. 

Section 3, Nominations Process. Nominations for elected members of the Board of Directors shall be made by a Nominations and Elections Committee composed of three (3) ASLTA certified, non-board members in good standing who are accepted by the Board of Directors. At least one of those members must hold master level to serve as the Committee Chair. Recommendations for nominations of officers may be submitted to the Nominations and Election Committee by any voting member of the organization, provided the nomination is accompanied by 1) biographical data detailing the nominee’s qualifications for the office and 2) signature of the nominee giving signed consent. A call for Nominations and Elections Committee members from the membership, shall be announced through ASLTA communications in January and again 30 days before nominations start during the election year. Nominations from the membership can be submitted to the Nominations and Elections Committee between 90 days prior to the biennial conference until 30 days prior to the biennial conference. 

ARTICLE IX – COMMITTEES Section 7, Duties of the Evaluation and Certification Revision Committee.
The Evaluation and Certification Revision Committee will be responsible for developing, maintaining, and modifying the ASLTA certification process. All members of this committee must hold a current (valid) ASLTA Master certification.

Proposed Language:

ARTICLE VII – ELECTION and APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS
Section 1, Officers to be Elected and/or Appointed. The officers to be elected, and who shall serve until their successors are duly elected, shall be President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Professional Development Director, and Communications Director. The additional Board of Director positions, ASLHS National Director and Evaluation and Certification Director are appointed by the Board of Directors. All nine (9) positions shall be members of the Board of Directors. The President, Vice President, Evaluation and Certification Director, and Professional Development Director must hold ASLTA permanent Master the highest level of ASLTA teacher certification, be members in good standing for at least two years prior to the election or appointment to the Board of Directors, and have a minimum of one year of service experience. The Secretary, Treasurer, Recruitment and Outreach Director, and Communications Director must hold a minimum Certified certification an entry-level ASLTA teacher certification, be members in good standing for at least two years prior to election or appointment to the Board of Directors, and have a minimum of one year of service experience. 

Section 3, Nominations Process.
Nominations for elected members of the Board of Directors shall be made by a Nominations and Elections Committee composed of three (3) ASLTA certified, non-board members in good standing who are accepted by the Board of Directors. At least one of those members must hold master level the highest level of ASLTA teacher certification to serve as the Committee Chair. Recommendations for nominations of officers may be submitted to the  Nominations and Election Committee by any voting member of the organization, provided the nomination is accompanied by 1) biographical data detailing the nominee’s qualifications for the office and 2) signature of the nominee giving signed consent. A call for Nominations and Elections Committee members from the membership, shall be announced through ASLTA communications in January and again 30 days before nominations start during the election year. Nominations from the membership can be submitted to the Nominations and Elections Committee between 90 days prior to the biennial conference until 30 days prior to the biennial conference. 

ARTICLE IX – COMMITTEES Section 7, Duties of the Evaluation and Certification Revision Committee.
The Evaluation and Certification Revision Committee will be responsible for developing, maintaining, and modifying the ASLTA certification process. All members of this committee must hold a current (valid) ASLTA Master certification the highest level of ASLTA teacher certification.

Language, if adopted, would read:

ARTICLE VII – ELECTION and APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS
Section 1, Officers to be Elected and/or Appointed. The officers to be elected, and who shall serve until their successors are duly elected, shall be President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Professional Development Director, and Communications Director. The additional Board of Director positions, ASLHS National Director and Evaluation and Certification Director are appointed by the Board of Directors. All nine (9) positions shall be members of the Board of Directors. The President, Vice President, Evaluation and Certification Director, and Professional Development Director must hold the highest level of ASLTA teachercertification, be members in good standing for at least two years prior to the election or appointment to the Board of Directors, and have a minimum of one year of service experience. The Secretary, Treasurer, Recruitment and Outreach Director, and Communications Director must hold an entry-level  ASLTA teacher certification, be members in good standing for at least two years prior to election or appointment to the Board of Directors, and have a minimum of one year of service experience. 

Section 3, Nominations Process.
Nominations for elected members of the Board of Directors shall be made by a Nominations and Elections Committee composed of three (3) ASLTA certified, non-board members in good standing who are accepted by the Board of Directors. At least one of those members must hold the highest level of ASLTA teacher certification to serve as the Committee Chair. Recommendations for nominations of officers may be submitted to the Nominations and Election Committee by any voting member of the organization, provided the nomination is accompanied by 1) biographical data detailing the nominee’s qualifications for the office and 2) signature of the nominee giving signed consent. A call for Nominations and Elections Committee members from the membership, shall be announced through ASLTA communications in January and again 30 days before nominations start during the election year. Nominations from the membership can be submitted to the Nominations and Elections Committee between 90 days prior to the biennial conference until 30 days prior to the biennial conference. 

ARTICLE IX – COMMITTEES Section 7, Duties of the Evaluation and Certification Revision Committee.
The Evaluation and Certification Revision Committee will be responsible for developing, maintaining, and modifying the ASLTA certification process. All members of this committee must hold the highest level of ASLTA teacher certification.

Article IV: Meetings
Section 1: General Meetings 

Rationale:
Establishes a conference committee. Also, matches language in Amendment 53.

Voted in Favor: 85

Voted Against: 1

Abstained: 1

Current Language:

General meetings of the membership shall be held biennially during odd numbered years at a location and date to be determined by the Board of Directors.

Proposed Language:

General meetings of the membership shall be held biennially during the biennial national conference on odd numbered years at a location and date to be determined by the Board of Directors. The conference format and duration shall be determined by a conference committee with support from the Board of Directors. If no biennial national conference is held, a general meeting of the membership must still occur.

Language, if adopted, would read:

General meetings of the membership shall be held during the biennial national conference on odd numbered years at a location and date to be determined by the Board of Directors. The conference format and duration shall be determined by a conference committee with support from the Board of Directors. If no biennial national conference is held, a general meeting of the membership must still occur.

Article VII: Election and Appointment of Officers
Section 3: Election Procedures 

Rationale:
Sometimes the general assembly meetings do not start until the second day of the conference, but voting needs to be able to take place on the second day of the conference. Changing the language here allows for that while still allowing the flexibility of when general assembly meetings will occur during the conference.

In addition, there is not a regular ASLTA newsletter.

Voted in Favor: 85

Voted Against: 1

Abstained: 1

Current Language:

There shall be alternating elections every two (2) years. Groups of officers to be elected in alternate elections are as follows: 1. The President, Secretary, and Professional Development Director, and 2. The Vice President, Treasurer, Recruitment and Outreach Director, and Communications Director. Elections will take place by electronic ballot through the ASLTA website to be opened at 12:00am on the second day of the biennial meeting in the time zone where the meeting is held and closed at 11:59pm on the second day of the biennial meeting in the time zone where the meeting is held. All voting members in good standing 30 days before the biennial meeting shall be provided with one (1) electronic ballot. Election results will be announced at the regular biennial meeting, in the ASLTA newsletter and on the ASLTA website.

Proposed Language:

There shall be alternating elections every two (2) years. Groups of officers to be elected in alternate elections are as follows: 1. The President, Secretary, and Professional Development Director, and 2. The Vice President, Treasurer, Recruitment and Outreach Director, and Communications Director. Elections will take place by electronic ballot through the ASLTA website to be opened at 12:00am on the second day of the biennial meeting national conference in the time zone where the meeting conference is held and closed at 11:59pm on the second day of the biennial meeting conference in the time zone where the meeting is held. All voting members in good standing 30 days before the biennial meeting conference shall be provided with one (1) electronic ballot. Election results will be announced at the end of the regular biennial meeting, conference in the ASLTA newsletter and on the ASLTA website.

Language, if adopted, would read:

There shall be alternating elections every two (2) years. Groups of officers to be elected in alternate elections are as follows: 1. The President, Secretary, and Professional Development Director, and 2. The Vice President, Treasurer, Recruitment and Outreach Director, and Communications Director. Elections will take place by electronic ballot through the ASLTA website to be opened at 12:00am on the second day of the biennial national conference in the time zone where the conference is held and closed at 11:59 pm on the second day of the biennial conference in the time zone where the meeting is held. All voting members in good standing 30 days before the biennial conference shall be provided with one (1) electronic ballot. Election results will be announced at the end of the conference and on the ASLTA website.

Article IX: Committees
Section 8: Ad Hoc / Special Committees 

Rationale:
The ASLTA Board needs the authority to establish committees between General Meetings. The current wording requires the National ASLTA (meaning the members) to establish committees. Board members are voted upon by the membership to focus on organizational business between the general meetings, which can include establishing committees.

Voted in Favor: 86

Voted Against: 1

Abstained: 0

Current Language:

In conjunction with General Meetings, a Nominations Committee, Awards Committee, and Conference Committee must be established on odd numbers years. Additionally, the National ASLTA may choose to establish a variety of ad hoc committees as needed. Ad hoc committees shall meet at least once monthly until the purpose and goals of the committee are met, either in-person or via video conferencing.

Proposed Language:

In conjunction with General Meetings, a Nominations Committee, Awards Committee, and Conference Committee must be established on odd numbers years. Additionally, the National ASLTA Board may choose to establish a variety of ad hoc committees as needed. Ad hoc committees shall meet at least once monthly until the purpose and goals of the committee are met, either in-person or via video conferencing.

Language, if adopted, would read:

In conjunction with General Meetings, a Nominations Committee, Awards Committee, and Conference Committee must be established on odd numbers years. Additionally, the National ASLTA Board may choose to establish a variety of ad hoc committees as needed. Ad hoc committees shall meet at least once monthly until the purpose and goals of the committee are met, either in-person or via video conferencing.

Article II: Objectives 

Rationale:
Aligns the ASLTA Objectives with what ASLTA current offers.

Voted in Favor: 86

Voted Against: 1

Abstained: 0

Current Language:

1. To provide a closer relationship between teachers of American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf Studies and other organizations with interests consistent with the mission of the Association. 
2. To provide development opportunities for ASL and Deaf Studies teachers. 
3. To develop and maintain certification standards for ASL teachers and programs offering ASL  and Deaf Studies courses
4. To certify ASL teachers and programs offering ASL and Deaf Studies courses. 
5. To develop standards and procedures for the accreditation of training programs, facilities and personnel involved in the education of teachers of ASL and/or Deaf Studies. 
6. To develop and maintain a national directory of members, certified teachers, and certified ASL and/or Deaf Studies programs. 
7. To provide an effective avenue for the exchange of information regarding methods and materials in the instruction of ASL and Deaf Studies. 
8. To encourage the development and maintenance of affiliated chapters.

Proposed Language:

1. To provide a closer relationship between teachers of American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf Studies and other organizations with interests consistent with the mission of the Association. 
2. To provide development opportunities for ASL and Deaf Studies teachers. 
3. To develop and maintain certification standards for ASL teachers and programs offering ASL and Deaf Studies courses. 
4. To certify ASL teachers and programs offering ASL and Deaf Studies courses ASL lab tutors.
5. To develop standards and procedures for the accreditation of training programs, facilities and personnel involved in the education of teachers of ASL and/or Deaf Studies.
6. To develop and maintain a national directory of members, and certified teachers, and certified ASL and/or Deaf Studies Programs.
7. To provide an effective avenue for the exchange of information regarding methods and materials in the instruction of ASL and Deaf Studies.
8. To encourage the development and maintenance of affiliated chapters.

Language, if adopted, would read:

1. To provide a closer relationship between teachers of American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf Studies and other organizations with interests consistent with the mission of the Association. 
2. To provide development opportunities for ASL and Deaf Studies teachers. 
3. To develop and maintain certification standards for ASL teachers.
4. To certify ASL teachers and ASL lab tutors. 
5. To develop and maintain a national directory of members and certified teachers.
6. To provide an effective avenue for the exchange of information regarding methods and materials in the instruction of ASL and Deaf Studies.

Article IX: Chapter Affiliation

Section: 

Rationale: Having Chapters affiliated with the National ASLTA has become much more complex under IRS regulations. There has been a continuous lack of compliance with IRS regulations related to local chapters. To protect the National organization, it is in the best interest of the members that local chapters are independent and no longer affiliated with the National ASLTA. The National ASLTA Board is working on behalf of members to Trademark “ASLTA” so that local organizations cannot use the name. 

Voted in Favor: 27

Voted Against: 2

Abstained: 4

Current Language:

Section 1, Recognition of Local Chapters. The Chapters Affiliation Director shall have the authority to officially recognize local chapters of ASLTA.

Section 2, Dues. Dues for affiliated ASLTA Chapters shall be determined by majority vote of the Board of Directors. Dues are payable yearly. The membership cycle is September 1 through August 31. Affiliated ASLTA Chapters in arrears for more than three months after payment is due shall be dropped from membership.

Section 3, Compliance With Guidelines for Local Chapters. Affiliated ASLTA chapters must comply with requirements as stipulated in the Guidelines for Local Chapter Affiliation and Maintenance. If an affiliated ASLTA chapter updates their bylaws, they shall send their updated bylaws with their renewal fees (due September 1).

Section 4, Termination of Official Recognition of Local Chapters. The Chapters Affiliation Director, with the approval of the Board of Directors, shall have the authority to terminate the recognition of any local ASLTA chapter that fails to abide by the philosophy, bylaws and policies of ASLTA, and / or to maintain itself as an active organization.

Proposed Language:

Section 1, Recognition of Local Chapters. The Chapters Affiliation Director shall have the authority to officially recognize local chapters of ASLTA.

Section 2, Dues. Dues for affiliated ASLTA Chapters shall be determined by majority vote of the Board of Directors. Dues are payable yearly. The membership cycle is September 1 through August 31. Affiliated ASLTA Chapters in arrears for more than three months after payment is due shall be dropped from membership.

Section 3, Compliance With Guidelines for Local Chapters. Affiliated ASLTA chapters must comply with requirements as stipulated in the Guidelines for Local Chapter Affiliation and Maintenance. If an affiliated ASLTA chapter updates their bylaws, they shall send their updated bylaws with their renewal fees (due September 1).

Section 4, Termination of Official Recognition of Local Chapters. The Chapters Affiliation Director, with the approval of the Board of Directors, shall have the authority to terminate the recognition of any local ASLTA chapter that fails to abide by the philosophy, bylaws and policies of ASLTA, and / or to maintain itself as an active organization.

Language if adopted would read:

Article VI: Duties of Officers

Section: 

Rationale: This amendment has both minor and major changes to this article. The minor changes are simple language changes to correct and standardize formatting. The major changes will help to develop a better structure within the organization and to clarify duties of some of the Board positions. 

One change includes the elimination of the Chapters Affiliation Director position. It is the goal of the Board and the Bylaws Committee to hold discussions during the 2023 conference on developing a new Board position to replace that one. Some of the changes are simple language changes to correct and standardize formatting. 

Voted in Favor: 28

Voted Against: 0

Abstained: 2

Current Language

Section 1, Duties of the President. The President shall be the primary elected officer. They shall preside at all Board meetings and be responsible for the oversight of all Board duties. They shall also be responsible for coordination of all Board activities, including but not limited to preparation of the Board meeting agendas, appointing committee chairs and overseeing the implementation of committee work.

Section 2, Duties of the Vice President. The Vice President shall serve in the absence of the President. They shall succeed to the office of President should that office become vacant prior to the expiration of the term of office of the President. The Vice President will oversee bylaws compliance and maintenance of Association policies and procedures. In addition, the Vice President shall perform all duties as assigned by the President and approved by the Board of Directors.

Section 3, Duties of the Secretary. The Secretary shall keep accurate and complete minutes of all meetings of the organization and the Board of Directors. The Secretary shall maintain a roster of all members of the Association, and shall keep on file all documents, disks, communications and other papers related to the business of ASLTA.

Section 4, Duties of the Treasurer. The Treasurer shall ensure that accurate financial records are kept and maintained, and reports are made at each Board meeting, and an audit is performed annually. The Treasurer shall obtain their ASLTA certification within one year of being elected to the position.

Section 5, Duties of Evaluation and Certification Director. The Evaluation and Certification Director will manage the Evaluation, Revision and Appeals Committee and serve as liaison between the Evaluation Committee and Board of Directors. Any Board items related to Evaluation and Certification will require the Evaluation and Certification Director’s presence at the ASLTA Board meeting.

Section 6, Chapter Affiliation Director. The Chapter Affiliation Director shall have charge of all affiliated ASLTA chapters. They shall oversee the affiliation process and maintenance process of chapters, including submission of chapter bylaws, fulfillment of required procedures for affiliation and annual maintenance of chapters in good standing.

Section 7, Professional Development Director. The Professional Development Director shall be responsible for coordinating all aspects of professional development activities, including but not limited to conference planning and coordinating professional development opportunities for ASLTA members.

Section 8, Communications Director. The Communications Director will be responsible for all publicity and outreach by the Board to the membership.

Section 9, ASlHS National Coordinator. The National Coordinator, as a program representative to the ASLTA Board, will ensure program goals, projects, and initiatives are completed that focus on providing additional value to ASL teachers and students to enhance ASL education in heritage language and world language contexts. On an annual basis, the National Coordinator will present ASLHS plans, projects, and budget for the next following year’s activities to the Board.

Section 10, Compensation. Members of the Board of Directors shall serve without compensation except for standard expenses as approved by the Board of Directors.

Proposed Language

Section 1, Duties of the President. The President shall be the primary elected officer. They shall preside at all Board meetings and be responsible for the oversight of all Board duties. They shall also be responsible for coordination of all Board activities, including but not limited to preparation of the Board meeting agendas, appointing committee chairs and overseeing the implementation of committee work.

Section 2, Duties of the Vice President. The Vice President shall serve in the absence of the President. They shall succeed to the office of President should that office become vacant prior to the expiration of the term of office of the President. The Vice President will oversee bylaws compliance, and maintenance of Association policies and procedures, and the coordination and implementation of committee work. In addition, the Vice President shall perform all duties as assigned by the President and approved by the Board of Directors.

Section 3, Duties of the Secretary. The Secretary shall keep accurate and complete minutes of all meetings of the organization and the Board of Directors. The Secretary shall maintain a roster of all members of the Association, and shall keep on file all documents, disks, communications, and other papers related to the business of ASLTA.

Section 4, Duties of the Treasurer. The Treasurer shall ensure that accurate financial records are kept and maintained, and reports are made at each Board meeting, and an audit is performed annually. The Treasurer shall obtain their ASLTA certification within one year of being elected to the position.

Section 5, Duties of Evaluation and Certification Director. The Evaluation and Certification Director will shall manage the Evaluation, Revision and Appeals Committee and serve as liaison between the Evaluation Committee and Board of Directors. Any Board items related to Evaluation and Certification will require the Evaluation and Certification Director’s presence at the ASLTA Board meeting.

Section 6, Chapter Affiliation Director. The Chapter Affiliation Director shall have charge of all affiliated ASLTA chapters. They shall oversee the affiliation process and maintenance process of chapters, including submission of chapter bylaws, fulfillment of required procedures for affiliation and annual maintenance of chapters in good standing. As of July 1, 2023, the Chapter Affiliation Director position will be dissolved and this Section will be removed from the Association Bylaws.

Section 7, Professional Development Director. The Professional Development Director shall be responsible for coordinating all aspects of professional development activities, including but not limited to conference planning and coordinating professional development opportunities for ASLTA members.

Section 8, Communications Director. The Communications Director will shall be responsible for all publicity and outreach by the Board to the membership and the public at-large.

Section 9, ASLHS National Coordinator. The National Coordinator, as a program representative to the ASLTA Board, will ensure program goals, projects, and initiatives are completed that focus on providing additional value to ASL teachers and students to enhance ASL education in heritage language and world language contexts. On an annual basis, the National Coordinator will present ASLHS plans, projects, and budget for the next following year’s activities to the Board.

Section 10, Compensation. Members of the Board of Directors shall serve without compensation except for standard expenses as approved by the Board of Directors.

Language if adopted would read;

Section 1, Duties of the President. The President shall be the primary elected officer. They shall preside at all Board meetings and be responsible for the oversight of all Board duties. They shall also be responsible for coordination of all Board activities, including but not limited to preparation of the Board meeting agendas.

Section 2, Duties of the Vice President. The Vice President shall serve in the absence of the President. They shall succeed to the office of President should that office become vacant prior to the expiration of the term of office of the President. The Vice President will oversee bylaws compliance, maintenance of Association policies and procedures, and the coordination and implementation of committee work. In addition, the Vice President shall perform all duties as assigned by the President and approved by the Board of Directors.

Section 3, Duties of the Secretary. The Secretary shall keep accurate and complete minutes of all meetings of the organization and the Board of Directors. The Secretary shall keep on file all documents, disks, communications, and other papers related to the business of ASLTA.

Section 4, Duties of the Treasurer. The Treasurer shall ensure that accurate financial records are kept and maintained, reports are made at each Board meeting, and an audit is performed annually. The Treasurer shall obtain their ASLTA certification within one year of being elected to the position.

Section 5, Duties of Evaluation and Certification Director. The Evaluation and Certification Director shall manage the Evaluation, Revision and Appeals Committee and serve as liaison between the Evaluation Committee and Board of Directors.

Section 6, Chapter Affiliation Director. The Chapter Affiliation Director shall have charge of all affiliated ASLTA chapters. They shall oversee the affiliation process and maintenance process of chapters, including submission of chapter bylaws, fulfillment of required procedures for affiliation and annual maintenance of chapters in good standing. As of July 1, 2023, the Chapter Affiliation Director position will be dissolved and this Section will be removed from the Association Bylaws.

Section 7, Professional Development Director. The Professional Development Director shall be responsible for coordinating all aspects of professional development activities, including but not limited to conference planning and coordinating professional development opportunities for ASLTA members.

Section 8, Communications Director. The Communications Director shall be responsible for all publicity and outreach by the Board to the membership and the public at-large.

Section 9, ASLHS National Coordinator. The National Coordinator, as a program representative to the ASLTA Board, will ensure program goals, projects, and initiatives are completed that focus on providing additional value to ASL teachers and students to enhance ASL education in heritage language and world language contexts. On an annual basis, the National Coordinator will present ASLHS plans, projects, and budget for the next following year’s activities to the Board.

Section 10, Compensation. Members of the Board of Directors shall serve without compensation except for standard expenses as approved by the Board of Directors.

Article IV: Meetings

Section: 4, Board of Directors Meetings

Rationale: Robert’s Rules of Order (RRO) requires that Bylaws explicitly state if a Board can meet electronically / virtually rather than being required to meet in person. 

Voted in Favor: 31

Voted Against: 0

Abstained: 0

Current Language:

Section 2, Standing Committees. The National ASLTA will have the following four (4) standing committees: Bylaws Committee, Finance Committee, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee, and Evaluation and Certification Revision Committee.

Section 7, Ad Hoc/Special Committees. In conjunction with General Meetings, a Nominations Committee, Awards Committee, and Conference Committee must be established on odd numbers years. Additionally, the National ASLTA may choose to establish a variety of ad hoc committees as needed.

Proposed Language:

The National ASLTA will have the following four (4) five (5) standing committees: Bylaws Committee, Steering Committee, Finance Committee, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee, and Evaluation and Certification Revision Committee. Standing committees shall meet at least once monthly, either in-person or via video conferencing.

Section 7, Ad Hoc/Special Committees. In conjunction with General Meetings, a Nominations Committee, Awards Committee, and Conference Committee must be established on odd numbers years. Additionally, the National ASLTA may choose to establish a variety of ad hoc committees as needed. Ad hoc committees shall meet at least once monthly until the purpose and goals of the committee are met, either in-person or via video conferencing.

Language if adopted would read:

The National ASLTA will have the following five (5) standing committees: Bylaws Committee, Steering Committee, Finance Committee, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee, and Evaluation and Certification Revision Committee. Standing committees shall meet at least once monthly, either in-person or via video conferencing.

Section 7, Ad Hoc/Special Committees. In conjunction with General Meetings, a Nominations Committee, Awards Committee, and Conference Committee must be established on odd numbers years. Additionally, the National ASLTA may choose to establish a variety of ad hoc committees as needed. Ad hoc committees shall meet at least once monthly until the purpose and goals of the committee are met, , either in-person or via video conferencing.

Article IV: Meetings

Section: 4, Board of Directors Meetings

Rationale: Robert’s Rules of Order (RRO) requires that Bylaws explicitly state if a Board can meet electronically / virtually rather than being required to meet in person.

Voted in Favor: 31

Voted Against: 0

Abstained: 0

Current Language:

The Board of Directors shall meet at least once monthly. Special meetings of the Board may be called by the President or at least four (4) Board members.

Proposed Language

The Board of Directors shall meet at least once monthly, either in-person or via video conferencing. Special meetings of the Board may be called by the President or at least four (4) Board members.

Language if adopted would read:

The Board of Directors shall meet at least once monthly, either in-person or via video conferencing. Special meetings of the Board may be called by the President or at least four (4) Board members.

Article V: Board of Directors

Section: 2

Rationale: The bylaws contain duties for each individual officer but not for the Board of Directors as a whole. This amendment would add duties for the Board as a whole. 

Voted in Favor: 30

Voted Against: 0

Abstained: 0

Current language: n/a

Proposed Language:

Section 2, Duties of the Board. The National ASLTA Board shall have general supervision of all operations and business dealings of the National ASLTA between biennial meetings. They shall be
responsible for supervising the implementation of any motions and resolutions made at the biennial meetings. They shall create and approve the budget and oversee the spending of funds. They will have the authority to enter into contracts and develop and agree to Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with other organizations. The Board shall endeavor to find ways to grow the organization and ensure its continued success.

Language if adopted would read:

Section 2, Duties of the Board. The National ASLTA Board shall have general supervision of all operations and business dealings of the National ASLTA between biennial meetings. They shall be responsible for supervising the implementation of any motions and resolutions made at the biennial meetings. They shall create and approve the budget and oversee the spending of funds. They will
have the authority to enter into contracts and develop and agree to Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with other organizations. The Board shall endeavor to find ways to grow the organization
and ensure its continued success.