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Handbook => Governance => Bylaws
Bylaws Essentials
Bylaws are the framework of how a chapter works. It is a document that defines or organizes an organization and sets forth rules for internal governance and external dealings. Bylaws are the most authoritive governing document of the chapter, with the exception (in order) of a charter, articles of incorporation or association or constitution.
Bylaws should be the governing document whenever questions arise as to chapter operations and procedures. The format of bylaws is a lot like a report outline and can be organized in different ways.
Click here for a sample bylaws outline
All of the bylaws, past and present, should be available to all members, especially if the chapter has a website. If not, the members should be directed to the appropriate board member or organizational support person for the information. New members should receive a copy of the bylaws in their new member welcome packet.
Several samples of chapter bylaws are included below for your reference, as well as the ASHRM bylaws. You may compare or utilize these sample bylaws as models to fashion your own bylaws or to reflect the workings of your particular chapter and tailor it to your chapter's needs. Additionally, review and incorporate language from any appropriate state acts, statutes or regulations.
The Board of Directors should review the bylaws annually and update as needed. If using Microsoft Word, try using "track changes" to monitor what has or has not been changed, especially when presenting many changes to the membership for approval.
Click here for a sample of bylaws revisions
Final approval of any updates is by the membership.
Sample Bylaws
ASHRM Bylaws
Small chapter
Hawaii Society for Healthcare Risk Management (Word | PDF)
Medium-sized chapter
Maryland Society for Healthcare Risk Management (Word | PDF)
North Texas Society for Healthcare Risk Management (PDF)
Large chapter
Chicagoland Healthcare Risk Management Society (PDF)
North Carolina Chapter of ASHRM (PDF)
International chapter
Indonesia Clinical Risk Management Institute (Word | PDF)
