ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION
ARTICLE I - CORPORATE NAME
ARTICLE II - DURATION
ARTICLE III - PURPOSES, OBJECTS AND POWERS
ARTICLE IV - MEMBERSHIP
ARTICLE V - DISTRIBUTION OF ASSETS IN CASE OF
DISSOLUTION
ARTICLE VI - REGISTERED OFFICE AND REGISTERED
AGENT
ARTICLE VII - DIRECTORS
ARTICLE VIII - BYLAWS
BYLAWS
ARTICLE I - NAME, PURPOSES, AND FUNCTIONS
ARTICLE II - MEMBERSHIP
ARTICLE III - DUES
ARTICLE IV - AFFILIATION
ARTICLE V - GENERAL ASSEMBLY
ARTICLE VI - BOARD OF DIRECTORS
ARTICLE VII - STANDING COMMITTEES
ARTICLE VIII - CABINET AND COUNCILS
ARTICLE IX - CONSTITUENT ASSOCIATIONS
ARTICLE X - WSNA PAC
ARTICLE XI - CONSTITUENT REPRESENTATIVE COUNCIL
ARTICLE XII - NURSING ORGANIZATION LIAISON FORUM
ARTICLE XIII - AMERICAN NURSES ASSOCIATION
ARTICLE XIV - FISCAL YEAR
ARTICLE XV - OFFICIAL PUBLICATIONS
ARTICLE XVI - PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITY
ARTICLE XVII - AMENDMENTS
ARTICLE XVIII - SEPARABILITY
POLICY STATEMENT ON DUAL UNIONISM
PROVISO FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF 2005
AMENDMENTS TO THE BYLAWS
PROVISO FOR DEFINITION OF DELEGATES
REPRESENTING STAFF NURSE AND AT-LARGE
ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION
ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION
ARTICLE 1 - CORPORATE NAME
The name of the corporation shall be WASHINGTON STATE NURSES ASSOCIATION.
ARTICLE II - DURATION
The duration of this corporation shall be perpetual.
ARTICLE III - PURPOSES, OBJECTS AND POWERS
The purposes and objects of this corporation shall be
A. to work for the improvement of health standards and the availability of
health care service for all people and
B. to foster high standards of nursing and
C. to stimulate and promote the professional development of nurses and advance
their economic and general welfare.
These purposes shall be unrestricted by considerations of age, color, creed,
disability, gender, health status, life style, nationality, race, religion or
sexual orientation.
The corporation shall have the following powers:
A. to make contracts and incur liabilities, borrow money at such rates of
interest as the corporation may determine, issue its notes, bonds and other
obligations and secure any of its obligations by mortgage or pledge of any of
its property, franchises and income.
B. to purchase, take, receive, lease, take by gift, devise or bequest, or
otherwise acquire, own, hold, improve, use and otherwise deal in and with real
or personal property, or any interest therein, wherever situated.
C. to sell, convey, mortgage, pledge, lease, exchange, transfer and otherwise
dispose of all or any part of its property and assets.
D. to elect or appoint officers and agents of the corporation and define their
duties and fix their compensation.
E. to make and alter bylaws, not inconsistent with the Articles of Incorporation
or with the laws of this state, for the administration and regulation of the
affairs of the corporation.
F. to make donations for the public welfare or for charitable, scientific or
educational purposes.
G. to indemnify any director or officer or former director or officer of the
corporation, or any person who may have served at its request as a director or
officer of another corporation whether for profit or not for profit, against
expenses actually and necessarily incurred by him in connection with the defense
of any action, suit or proceeding in which he is made a party by reason of being
or having been such director or officer, except in relation to matters as to
which he shall be adjudged in such action, suit or proceeding to be liable for
negligence or misconduct in the performance of duty; but such indemnification
shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which such director or
officer may be entitled under any bylaw, agreement, vote of board of directors
or members, or otherwise.
H. to cease its corporation activities and surrender its corporate franchise.
I. to have and exercise all powers necessary or convenient to effect any or all
of the purposes for which the corporation is organized.
J. to have all of the general powers conferred upon a Washington non-profit
corporation by RCW 24.03.035.
The corporation is exclusively organized and operated for the purposes
enumerated in Section 501(c)(5) of the Internal Revenue Code and its powers do
not exceed those permitted under that section of the Code.
ARTICLE IV - MEMBERSHIP
Membership shall be open to registered nurses or such others as designated in
the bylaws.
The bylaws may establish classes of membership or associate membership.
ARTICLE V - DISTRIBUTION OF ASSETS IN CASE OF
DISSOLUTION
In case of the dissolution of the corporation all assets shall be turned over to
the American Nurses Association if the American Nurses Association shall be
entitled to exempt status under the Internal Revenue Code; but if the American
Nurses Association shall not then be an exempt non-profit corporation, such
assets shall go to the Nurses' Educational Fund, Inc.
ARTICLE VI - REGISTERED OFFICE AND REGISTERED
AGENT
The registered office of the corporation shall be:
575 Andover Park West, Suite 101
Seattle, Washington 98188
The name and address of the registered agent of the corporation in this state
shall be:
JUDITH A. HUNTINGTON,
575 Andover Park West, Suite 101
Seattle, Washington 98188
ARTICLE VII - DIRECTORS
The Board of Directors shall consist of such number of directors, not less than
three, as shall be fixed by the bylaws, and shall include as members of the
board the officers of the corporation.
Qualifications for directors and the manner and time of their election and their
terms of office shall be fixed by the bylaws.
The bylaws shall prescribe the manner of filling vacancies in the Board of
Directors.
ARTICLE VIII - BYLAWS
Bylaws may be adopted or amended when recommended by the Board of Directors and
approved by a majority of the members at a general meeting at which a quorum
shall be present, or by mail ballot.
WASHINGTON STATE NURSES ASSOCIATION BYLAWS
ARTICLE I - NAME, PURPOSES, AND FUNCTIONS
SECTION 1. Name
The name of this association shall be the Washington State Nurses Association,
hereinafter referred to as the WSNA.
SECTION 2. Purposes
The purposes of the WSNA shall be to act and speak for the nursing profession
and to promote and enhance the accountability and control of nursing practice by
the nursing profession through
A. working for the improvement of health standards and the availability of
health care services for all people, and
B. fostering high standards of nursing, and
C. promoting the professional development of nurses and advancing their economic
and general welfare.
These purposes shall be unrestricted by consideration of age, color, creed,
disability, gender, health status, life style, nationality, race, religion or
sexual orientation.
SECTION 3. Functions
The functions of the WSNA shall be to
A. promote standards of nursing practice, nursing education, and nursing service
as defined by the American Nurses Association, hereinafter referred to as the
ANA.
B. promote adherence to the ANA Code of Ethics for Nurses.
C. initiate and influence legislation, governmental programs, and public health
policy.
D. promote and protect the economic and general welfare of nurses.
E. protect nurses' rights to engage in collective bargaining.
F. serve as the exclusive bargaining representative for registered nurses
bargaining units.
G. provide for the continuing professional development of nurses.
H. promote research in nursing and encourage the utilization of new knowledge as
a basis for nursing.
I. represent nurses and promote relationships with allied professional,
community, and governmental groups and with the public.
J. assume an active role as consumer advocate in health.
K. meet the qualification requirements as a constituent of the ANA.
L. promote relationships with the State of Washington Associated Nursing
Students.
M. conduct an affirmative action program.
N. provide for representation in the ANA House of Delegates.
ARTICLE II - MEMBERSHIP
SECTION 1. Composition
The Washington State Nurses Association shall be composed of registered nurses
who meet the qualifications stated in these bylaws and shall be unrestricted by
consideration of age, color, creed, disability, gender, health status, life
style, nationality, race, religion or sexual orientation.
SECTION 2. Qualifications
A. A regular member is one
1. who has been granted a license to practice as a registered nurse in the State
of Washington or is licensed in another state, District of Columbia, territory
or possession of the United States who does not have a license under suspension
or revocation in any state, or is otherwise entitled by law to practice, and
2. whose application for membership in the WSNA has been accepted, and
3. whose dues are not delinquent, and
4. whose membership is not under revocation, and
5. who holds a concurrent membership in a DNA or region, hereinafter referred to
as a constituent association.
6. who has paid full dues to a transferring CMA and meets WSNA membership
qualifications and whose transfer has been signed by the secretary of the
transferring constituent member association. This member shall not pay
additional dues for the period covered by dues paid to the transferring CMA. The
transferring constituent member association shall not refund dues paid.
B. A member-at-large is one who
1. meets the qualifications stated in A.1 through 5, and
2. does not reside within the jurisdictional boundaries served by a constituent
association.
C. Secondary Membership
1. An individual who meets the qualifications for membership stated in Section 2
of this article and who is already a member of another ANA constituent member
association may become a secondary member of this association.
2. Dues for secondary members shall be the same as for other members of this
association except that the ANA assessment factor shall be deducted.
3. Secondary members are entitled to all of the rights and privileges of
membership except representation of this Association at the ANA House of
Delegates and participation in the election of WSNA delegates/alternates to the
ANA House of Delegates.
D. Life Membership
The Board of Directors shall establish a category of Life Membership for nurses
who have been a member of a constituent member association for 30 years, are 65
years of age or older, and maintain their RN licensure, recognizing this type of
membership has all the rights and privileges of full WSNA membership.
E. Honorary Membership
The Board of Directors shall establish a category of Honorary Membership in
appreciation for those who have been a member of a constituent member
association for 30 years, are 65 years or older, and no longer maintain an RN
license, recognizing that this type of membership has no voting or ANA
privileges. No membership dues are required.
SECTION 3. Membership Rights and Obligations
Members who have joined through constituent associations or as members-at-large
as defined by these bylaws shall have membership rights and obligations.
A. A member has the right to
1. receive a WSNA/ANA membership card, the WSNA bylaws, The American Nurse, and
the ANA Code of Ethics for Nurses.
2. receive The Washington Nurse and other official publications of WSNA.
3. seek election or appointment to positions within WSNA; a member may not
concurrently hold more than one Board, Cabinet, Council, or standing committee
position except as specified in these bylaws.
4. participate in the WSNA General Assembly as a voting member.
5. vote for elected officials and the dues rate of the WSNA, and
delegates/alternates to the ANA House of Delegates.
6. receive due process in the event of disciplinary action as hereinafter
described.
7. transfer into the WSNA membership from another constituent member
association, hereinafter referred to as CMA, for the remainder of a paid
membership year providing the WSNA membership qualifications are met.
8. seek election as a delegate/alternate to the ANA House of Delegates in
accordance with ANA Bylaws and applicable Policies.
9. seek election or appointment to positions within the ANA in accordance with
ANA Bylaws and applicable Policies.
10. attend the ANA House of Delegates, conventions, and other unrestricted ANA
activities.
11. attend the Congress of the International Council of Nurses.
12. Have access to the “Members Only” sections of the ANA and WSNA websites.
13. be accorded rights as provided under parliamentary authority.
14. receive reimbursement for expenses incurred in an elected or appointed
position according to financial policies established by the WSNA Board.
15. be reimbursed, as WSNA President, for percentage of time worked while
performing the duties of the office as defined in these bylaws and approved by
the WSNA Board within the financial capabilities of the organization.
16. nominate candidates for WSNA offices.
B. A member has the obligation to
1. uphold the bylaws of the WSNA and ANA.
2. abide by the ANA Code of Ethics for Nurses.
3. fulfill the requirements of an office when elected or appointed.
4. promote fulfillment of the functions of the WSNA.
5. pay dues as required by WSNA.
SECTION 4. Discipline
A member may be disciplined for cause by the WSNA.
A. Cause
Cause for discipline may include violation of
1. the ANA Code of Ethics for Nurses.
2. the WSNA bylaws and ANA bylaws.
3. Constituent member association/DNA bylaws
4. local unit rules.
5. the WSNA policy on Dual Unionism. See policy statement appended to these
bylaws.
B. Disciplinary Action
1. Any member may file a charge for disciplinary action with the WSNA Board of
Directors.
2. Within ninety (90) days of receipt of charge, a hearing panel shall be
appointed by the WSNA Board of Directors.
3. The hearing panel shall meet and review charges within 60 days after
appointment of the panel.
4. The hearing panel may dismiss the charges, fine, censure, or expel from
membership the member against whom the charges have been filed.
5. Disciplinary action shall not be taken unless the member is served with
written specific charges, given time to prepare a defense, and offered the
opportunity for a full and fair hearing.
C. Appeal
1. The decision of the hearing panel may be appealed to the WSNA Board of
Directors whose decision shall be final. Request for appeal shall be made within
ninety (90) days of notification of disciplinary action.
2. The WSNA Board of Directors shall respond to the request for appeal within
ninety (90) days.
D. Reinstatement
A member expelled from the WSNA may be reinstated by an affirmative vote of
two-thirds of the members of the Board of Directors present and voting.
E. Disciplinary Action by Other State Nurses Associations
Any disciplinary action taken by another CMA against one of its members or a
member of the WSNA shall be given full recognition and enforcement provided such
action was taken in accordance with the bylaws and disciplinary procedures of
the CMA.
SECTION 5. Student Representatives
A. Qualifications
Generic nursing students holding current membership in the State of Washington
Associated Nursing Students, hereinafter referred to as SWANS, shall be offered
representative status in WSNA.
B. Rights
1. Representatives shall be entitled to
a. receive the official WSNA publication--The Washington Nurse.
b. access to the WSNA Legislative Bulletin.
c. non-voting representation on the WSNA cabinet, councils, and committees.
d. non-voting representation at meetings of the WSNA Board of Directors.
2. SWANS Chapters with a minimum of fifteen (15) members holding representative
status in WSNA, shall have the right to one voting representative in the General
Assembly.
SECTION 6. Local Unit Program Members
A. Qualifications
Local Unit Program members are non-supervisory, non-Registered Nurses who pay
dues to WSNA and are covered by a WSNA collective bargaining agreement.
B. Rights and Obligations
A Local Unit Program Members shall be entitled to:
1. Be a voting member of the local unit;
2. Participate in all activities of the local unit;
3. Receive the WSNA publication The Washington Nurse and local unit mailings;
4. Seek election as a local unit officer, member of the Economic and General
Welfare Nominating/Search Committee or as a member of the Cabinet on Economic
and General Welfare, except Chairperson, and;
5. Vote for members of the Economic and General Welfare Nominating/Search
Committee, members of the Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare and the
Chairperson of the Cabinet.
ARTICLE III - DUES
SECTION 1. Authority
The rate of dues for members of the WSNA shall be approved by a majority vote of
the members voting through secret mail ballot.
SECTION 2. Dues
A. The dues of a member of the WSNA shall be for the membership year of twelve
(12) consecutive months.
B. Dues shall be paid for the constituent association at the same time that dues
are paid for the WSNA.
C. Any change in the present rate of assessment paid by WSNA to ANA shall be
automatically incorporated into the annual dues paid by each member.
D. Any change in the present rate of assessment paid by WSNA to UAN shall be
automatically incorporated into the annual dues paid by each member represented
for collective bargaining by WSNA so long as the UAN is an Associate
Organization Member (AOM) of ANA.
SECTION 3. Categories of Membership
The Board of Directors shall be authorized to establish categories of membership
and the schedule of dues for each category.
SECTION 4. Transfer of Membership
A member who has made full payment of dues may transfer to or from WSNA to
another ANA constituent member without additional dues payment or refund of
dues.
SECTION 5. Failure to Pay Dues
Failure to pay dues shall cause membership rights to be forfeited.
SECTION 6. Fee for "Student Representative"
The Board of Directors shall be authorized to establish a fee for students who
apply to become "Student Representatives" with the WSNA.
ARTICLE IV - AFFILIATION
SECTION 1. Definition
An affiliate is any organization of registered nurses which promotes the goals
of professional nursing.
SECTION 2. Qualifications/Criteria
A. is an organization of registered nurses that meets the criteria established
by the WSNA Board of Directors.
B. has a formal organizational structure,
C. has established formal goals,
D. has been granted organizational affiliate status by the Board of Directors,
E. has paid an organizational affiliate fee and shall have a signed operational
agreement with WSNA.
SECTION 3. Responsibilities
Each organizational affiliate shall maintain a mission and purpose harmonious
with the purposes and functions of WSNA.
SECTION 4. Rights
Any organizational affiliate shall be entitled to:
A. one represented voice, but no vote in the WSNA General Assembly,
B. make reports or presentations to the WSNA General Assembly within its area of
expertise,
C. submit the names of qualified registered nurse representatives for
appointment to ad hoc groups and task forces. Appointments to cabinets and
committees shall require WSNA membership.
ARTICLE V - GENERAL ASSEMBLY
SECTION 1. Definition
The General Assembly shall be the governing and official voting body of the
WSNA.
SECTION 2. Authority
The General Assembly shall
A. determine the positions and priorities of the WSNA other than
responsibilities over collective bargaining matters assigned by these bylaws to
the Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare.
B. delegate to the WSNA Board of Directors authority to provide implementation,
through the appropriate structural units, of actions taken by the General
Assembly.
C. establish rules of procedure for meetings of the General Assembly.
SECTION 3. Composition
The General Assembly shall be composed of WSNA members who are duly accredited.
SECTION 4. Meetings
A. The General Assembly shall meet biennially in odd-numbered years. The time
and place of the General Assembly shall be determined by the Board of Directors.
Notice of the General Assembly shall be announced in an official WSNA
publication at least ninety (90) days prior to the meeting.
B. Special meetings of the General Assembly may be called by the Board of
Directors or shall be called by the president upon written request of a majority
of the constituent associations or a majority of the cabinet and councils.
Notification of time and place shall be sent to the membership at least fifteen
(15) days before the first day of the special meeting.
SECTION 5. Quorum
Seventy-five (75) members shall constitute a quorum for a meeting of the General
Assembly. Of the seventy-five (75) members there shall be members who belong to
at least a majority of the active constituent associations.
SECTION 6. Eligibility for Voting
A. All WSNA members who are duly accredited, and eligible representatives of
SWANS Chapters, shall have the right to vote on matters of business in the
General Assembly.
B. Voting for elected officials of WSNA, dues rate of WSNA, and
delegates/alternates to ANA shall be the right of every member. Only those
bargaining unit and bargaining unit eligible WSNA members shall vote for the
Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare and the Economic and General Welfare
Nominating/Search Committee. Only WSNA members who are members of a WSNA
bargaining unit shall vote for delegates to the United American Nurses (UAN)
Labor Assembly.
SECTION 7. Elections
A. Elections
1. Members shall be notified through a WSNA official publication at least six
(6) months prior to an election, of their right to nominate candidates or be a
self-declared candidate for office.
2. Members may be nominated for office or declare their own candidacy by
submitting in writing their names and consent to serve to the WSNA secretary no
later than sixty (60) days prior to the first meeting of the General Assembly.
The names of such candidates shall be published in an official WSNA publication
and appear on the election ballot. Write-in candidates on the ballot shall be
allowed.
3. A slate of candidates prepared by the Nominations/Search Committee shall be
published in an official WSNA publication and shall be mailed to each
constituent association and local unit at least ninety (90) days prior to the
meeting of the General Assembly.
4. Elections shall be held by secret ballot following each biennial meeting of
the General Assembly with appropriate provisions to allow for all eligible
members to vote, in accordance with procedures established by the Board of
Directors including but not limited to a secret mail ballot.
5. A plurality vote shall constitute an election; in case of a tie, the choice
shall be decided by lot.
6. Results of the election shall be declared on the date that votes are counted,
and shall be announced in the next official WSNA publication following the date
polls are closed.
7. Terms of office for WSNA elected positions shall begin on declaration of
election. Terms of office for UAN Delegates and ANA Delegates/Alternates shall
begin according to ANA Bylaws.
B. Challenge
Any challenge to the election shall be filed with the secretary/treasurer of
WSNA within thirty (30) days after the official announcement of the election.
C. Records
All ballots and other records of the election shall be preserved for one year
after the election.
ARTICLE VI - BOARD OF DIRECTORS
SECTION 1. Definition
The Board of Directors is a corporate body composed of officers and directors
elected by members of the WSNA. Directors include the elected chairs of the
Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare, the Legislative and Health Policy
Council, and the Professional Nursing and Health Care Council.
SECTION 2. Authority
The Board of Directors shall fulfill the responsibilities delegated to the Board
of Directors by the General Assembly and as defined in these bylaws.
SECTION 3. Accountability
The Board of Directors is accountable to the membership through the General
Assembly.
SECTION 4. Responsibilities
The responsibilities of the Board of Directors shall be to
A. exercise the corporate responsibility and fiduciary duties of the WSNA
consistent with applicable provisions of law.
B. approve the contractual agreement between the WSNA and the ANA.
C. coordinate the functions and activities of the WSNA other than those relating
to collective bargaining matters assigned by these bylaws to the Cabinet on
Economic and General Welfare.
D. establish organization policies which shall protect the officers and
association from conflict of interest and maintain the integrity of the
profession and WSNA.
E. provide for implementation of action by the General Assembly within
prescribed statutory responsibilities.
F. establish the WSNA priorities, annually, based on the goals and resolutions
adopted by the General Assembly.
G. establish policies and rules of procedure for the transaction of business of
the WSNA between meetings of the General Assembly.
H. adopt the financial policies and a budget for the WSNA.
I. determine officers and other persons to be bonded, fix the amount of bond for
each, and approve same.
J. define categories of membership and notify the members of the rate of dues
for each category.
K. establish fees for services, student fees, and fees for specified activities
and biennial meetings.
L. appoint, define the authority and responsibilities, and annually review the
performance of the executive director as the executive administrator for the
WSNA.
M. establish administrative policies for personnel, grievance procedures and
other policies needed to manage and govern the affairs of the WSNA.
N. establish policies for the operation and maintenance of the WSNA
headquarters.
O. establish policies for the publication and distribution of materials by the
WSNA. The Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare shall establish policies for
publication and distribution of materials related to collective bargaining
matters consistent with these general policies.
P. define the governmental relations programs of the WSNA.
Q. define the responsibilities and the delegated authority of each
cabinet/council/committee established by the General Assembly that is not
defined in these bylaws.
R. establish and appoint special committees of the Board and define the purpose
and delegated authority of each committee named.
S. make appointments which are delegated to the Board of Directors, fill
vacancies in appointed positions, and in elected positions until the next
election.
T. shall remove appointed and/or elected members from office who fail to attend
meetings or fulfill requirements of the office as defined in policy established
by the Board of Directors.
U. establish the procedures for nominations and elections.
V. determine time, place, and date of the General Assembly.
W. establish procedures for disciplinary action and appoint hearing panels.
X. serve as the final board of appeal for a member charged with disciplinary
action.
Y. determine the jurisdictional boundaries for constituent associations.
Z. confer designation upon constituent associations that meet the qualifications
stated in these bylaws.
AA. establish policies to determine the WSNA's representation at national and
state meetings other than ANA meetings.
BB. provide for the WSNA liaison or representation at meetings of voluntary
agencies upon request or as deemed appropriate.
CC. establish the WSNA's relationship with the SWANS.
DD. appoint members of the Board of Trustees of WSNA Political Action Committee
(WSNA PAC) and approve their bylaws.
SECTION 5. Composition
The Board of Directors shall consist of eleven members who shall hold membership
in the WSNA.
SECTION 6. Officers and Directors
A. There shall be three officers; president, vice-president, and
secretary/treasurer elected by the membership.
B. There shall be five directors, elected at large by the membership, two of
whom shall hold seats designated for staff nurses.
C. The chair of the Legislative and Health Policy Council, the chair of the
Professional Nursing and Health Care Council, and the chair of the Cabinet on
Economic and General Welfare, by virtue of their election as chair, serve on the
Board of Directors.
SECTION 7. Elections
Officers and directors shall be elected by secret ballot following each biennial
meeting of the General Assembly with appropriate provisions to allow for all
eligible members to vote in accordance with procedures established by the Board
of Directors, including but not limited to a secret mail ballot.
SECTION 8. Terms of Office
A. Officers shall be elected for a two-year term. An officer shall be eligible
to serve only two consecutive terms or four consecutive years in the same
office.
B. Directors shall be elected for a two-year term. A Director shall be eligible
to serve two consecutive terms or four consecutive years.
C. A person who has served more than one-half of a term shall be considered to
have served a full term.
D. A person may serve a maximum of eight consecutive years.
SECTION 9. Qualifications for Office
A. To be eligible as an officer or director, a person shall hold current
membership in the WSNA.
B. Shall not concurrently serve as an officer, director and/or staff member of
another organization if such participation might result in a conflict of
interest with WSNA.
C. WSNA members who are employees of WSNA or a DNA are eligible to be candidates
for ANA elected offices, but are excluded from WSNA/DNA elected offices.
D. To be eligible for election to the Staff Nurse positions on the WSNA Board of
Directors, a WSNA member must meet the definition of Staff Nurse and be
represented for collective bargaining by WSNA throughout the term of office.
SECTION 10. Vacancies
A. In the event of a vacancy in the office of president, the vice-president
shall become president for the remainder of the term.
B. A vacancy in a position on the Board of Directors shall be filled by board
appointment for the unexpired term.
C. In the event that a person holding a seat designated for a staff nurse no
longer meets the definition of staff nurse, the position shall be declared
vacant, unless the occupant has less than one year remaining on his/her term of
office. In the event of a declared vacancy, the position shall be filled by WSNA
Board appointment of an eligible staff nurse until the next election.
SECTION 11. Duties of Officers
A. The president of WSNA shall
1. serve as the representative of the WSNA and as the official spokesperson on
matters of policy except as reflected in these bylaws.
2. serve as chairholder of the Board of Directors and Executive Committee.
3. serve as the presiding officer for the General Assembly.
4. serve as an ex-officio member of all committees, and councils except the
Nominations/Search Committee, Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare, and the
Economic and General Welfare Nominating/Search Committee.
5. appoint committees and perform other duties as designated by the Board of
Directors.
6. serve as liaison for the Board of Directors with the executive director
between meetings of the Board of Directors.
7. serve as an official representative of the WSNA to the Constituent Assembly
of the ANA. The president may appoint an alternate to attend the Assembly as the
official representative when the president is unable to attend.
8. The president may designate other WSNA members to serve as ex officio members
of any councils and committees in the absence of the president.
B. The vice president of WSNA shall:
1. assume the duties of the president in the president's absence or at the
discretion of the president.
2. serve as a member of the Finance Committee.
C. The secretary/treasurer shall
1. ensure the keeping of records for the WSNA.
2. report meetings of the General Assembly, Board of Directors, and Executive
Committee.
3. sign the official documents of the WSNA.
4. monitor the fiscal affairs of the WSNA.
5. report the financial conditions of the WSNA to the membership, General
Assembly, and the Board of Directors.
6. submit the books of accounts for annual audit by a certified public
accountant approved by the Board of Directors.
7. interpret the financial policies of the WSNA.
8. serve as chairholder of the Finance Committee.
F. Officers and directors shall fulfill the responsibilities of the Board of
Directors as defined in these bylaws.
SECTION 12. Executive Director
A. The executive director, employed by and accountable to the Board of
Directors, is the executive administrator for the WSNA and is delegated the
authority to
1. execute policies determined by the Board of Directors and policies
established by the Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare relating to
collective bargaining.
2. select, hire, promote, evaluate, and terminate staff.
3. represent the WSNA as a spokesperson on matters of established policy and
positions.
4. manage the WSNA headquarters.
5. serve as an official representative of the WSNA to the Constituent Assembly
of the ANA, or designate an official alternate to attend the ANA Constituent
Assembly.
B. The executive director shall fulfill other responsibilities delegated by the
Board of Directors and defined in the job description adopted by the Board of
Directors for the executive administrator.
C. The executive director holds a courtesy seat without vote on the Board of
Directors and the Executive Committee.
SECTION 13. Executive Committee
A. Composition
The president, vice president, and secretary/treasurer shall serve as the
Executive Committee.
B. Authority and Responsibilities
The Executive Committee shall have all powers of the Board of Directors to
1. transact business which requires action between meetings of the Board of
Directors.
2. take action on matters delegated by the Board of Directors and report such
action to the Board of Directors at the next regular meeting of the Board of
Directors.
3. submit to the Board of Directors rationale for action taken by the Executive
Committee on matters which are not delegated by the Board of Directors.
4. determine official action on behalf of the WSNA in legislative matters.
SECTION 14. Meetings
A. Board of Directors
1. Regular meetings of the Board of Directors shall be held preceding each
biennial meeting of the General Assembly, and at such other times as determined
by the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors shall determine the time and
place for regular meetings of the Board of Directors.
2. Special meetings of the Board of Directors may be called with two days'
previous notice to each board member.
a. The president shall, upon written request of at least eight constituent
associations or five directors, call a special meeting of the Board of Directors
with two days' notice to all members of the Board of Directors.
b. Business of the Board of Directors which, in the opinion of the president,
requires immediate action may be conducted by mail or other media. An
affirmative vote of the majority of the members of the Board of Directors shall
be required and shall control the action of the WSNA until the next meeting of
the Board of Directors where such action shall be ratified.
B. Executive Committee
The president may call Executive Committee meetings. The president shall call an
Executive Committee meeting upon the request of two elected officers. The
president shall determine the time and place for a called executive committee
meeting.
SECTION 15. Quorum
A. A majority of the Board of Directors, including the president or a
vice-president, shall constitute a quorum at any meeting of the Board of
Directors.
B. A majority of the Executive Committee shall constitute a quorum for meetings
of the Executive Committee.
ARTICLE VII - STANDING COMMITTEES
SECTION 1. Definition
A. There shall be three standing committees: Bylaws Committee,
Nominations/Search Committee, and Finance Committee.
B. The Board of Directors may appoint standing and special committees and shall
define the authority, responsibility, and term of office for each appointed
committee which is not defined in these bylaws.
C. Bargaining unit and non-bargaining unit members from geographic regions of
WSNA should be reflected in committee appointments.
SECTION 2. Bylaws Committee
A. Composition
The Bylaws Committee shall consist of at least three members, and not more than
seven appointed by the Board of Directors. The chairholder shall be named by the
Board of Directors and not serve more than two consecutive terms.
B. Responsibilities
The Bylaws Committee shall
1. interpret the bylaws.
2. review proposed amendments to the Articles of Incorporation and the bylaws
and recommend proposed action to the Board of Directors.
3. present to the General Assembly proposed amendments to the Articles of
Incorporation and the bylaws upon recommendation of the Board of Directors.
4. review the bylaws of a DNA or Regions which applies to the WSNA for
designation as a constituent association. The committee shall report to the
Board of Directors if the application meets the qualifications for a constituent
association. The Board of Directors decision shall be final in designating
constituent association status.
5. in consultation with the parliamentarian, advise constituent associations
concerning proposed amendments to their bylaws.
6. review the bylaws of other Washington State organizations seeking recognition
on the part of WSNA to assure harmony with the WSNA purposes and functions and
make recommendations to the Board of Directors.
7. serve as the Resolutions Committee.
C. Term of Office and Vacancies
The Board of Directors shall determine the term of office for members of the
Bylaws Committee and fill any vacancy which may occur.
SECTION 3. Nominations/Search Committee
A. Composition and Election
There shall be six members of the Nominations/Search Committee. Four shall be
elected following each biennial meeting of the General Assembly with appropriate
provisions to allow all members to vote in accordance with procedures
established by the Board of Directors including but not limited to a secret mail
ballot. Two shall be appointed by the Board of Directors. The person receiving
the highest number of votes shall serve as chairholder. Persons who are not
elected to the committee shall serve as alternates in the order of votes
received.
B. Responsibilities
The Nominations/Search Committee shall research and request names of candidates
and propose a slate according to procedures adopted by the Board of Directors.
C. Obligation
A member of the Nominations/Search Committee shall resign from the committee if
the member is to be a nominee on the slate proposed by the Nominations/Search
Committee.
D. Term of Office and Vacancies
1. Members of the Nominations/Search Committee shall serve for a two-year term.
A person is eligible to serve only two consecutive terms or four consecutive
years. Terms of office shall begin upon the date established by the Board of
Directors.
2. A vacancy occurring on the Nominations/Search Committee in an elected
position
shall be filled by the person who received the next highest vote in the election
for office.
If a vacancy occurs in an appointed position, the Board of Directors shall fill
the vacancy.
SECTION 4. Finance Committee
A. Composition
The Finance Committee shall consist of at least three WSNA members, and not more
than seven members to include the WSNA secretary/treasurer who shall serve as
chair, vice president, and a member of the Cabinet on Economic and General
Welfare selected by the Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare. Other members
of the committee shall be appointed by the Board of Directors.
B. Responsibilities
The Finance Committee shall
1. prepare the annual budget for submission to the Board of Directors for final
approval.
2. recommend fiscal policies to the Board of Directors.
3. advise the Board of Directors of income, expenditures, and investments and
make recommendations.
4. monitor the budget.
C. Term of Office and Vacancies
The Board of Directors shall determine the term of office for members of the
Finance Committee and fill any vacancy which may occur.
ARTICLE VIII - CABINET AND COUNCILS
SECTION 1. Definition
The Cabinet and Councils are organized deliberative bodies which fulfill their
stated responsibilities and make recommendations to the Board of Directors and
the General Assembly relative to the goals and priorities of the WSNA.
SECTION 2. Authority
The Cabinet and Councils shall be established by the General Assembly and shall
be accountable to the Board of Directors, except for the Cabinet on Economic and
General Welfare whose members shall be accountable to their electorate and
report to the Board of Directors. The Cabinet and Councils shall report to the
General Assembly.
SECTION 3. Meetings
A. Regular meetings of the Councils will be scheduled on a routine basis and
special meetings may be called upon approval of the WSNA president.
B. Regular meetings of the Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare will be
scheduled on a routine basis and special meetings may be called upon approval of
the Cabinet Chair.
SECTION 4. Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare
A. Composition
1. There shall be ten members on the Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare,
including the chairholder, vice-chairholder and secretary/treasurer, all of whom
shall be elected by secret ballot. The chairholder shall also serve on the WSNA
Board of Directors.
2. Executive Committee - The officers shall serve as the Executive Committee of
the Cabinet. The Executive Committee shall have the powers of the Cabinet on
Economic and General Welfare to:
a. Transact business which requires action, between meetings of the Cabinet.
b. take action on matters delegated by the Cabinet on Economic and General
Welfare and report such action to the Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare at
the next regular meeting.
B. Qualifications
To be eligible for election or appointment to the Cabinet on Economic and
General Welfare or the Economic and General Welfare Nominating/Search Committee,
a person shall hold current membership in the WSNA, be represented for
collective bargaining by WSNA, and meet the definition of staff nurse.
C. Election, Term of Office, and Vacancies
1. All cabinet members shall be elected by secret ballot following each biennial
meeting of the General Assembly with appropriate provisions to allow all
eligible members to vote, in accordance with procedures established by the Board
of Directors, including but not limited to a secret mail ballot.
2. The slate presented by the Economic and General Welfare Nominating/Search
Committee, self-declared candidates, and a place for write-in candidates who
meet the qualifications, will appear on the ballot.
3. A term of office shall be for two years. A person may serve a maximum of
eight consecutive years on the Cabinet, except for the Chairholder who may serve
up to an additional two years.
4. The chairholder, vice-chairholder and secretary/treasurer terms shall be two
years. The chairholder, vice-chairholder and secretary/treasurer shall have
served one term or partial term on the Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare
within the last three years prior to election as chair, vice-chair or
secretary/treasurer.
5. In the event that a person holding a position on the Cabinet no longer meets
the qualifications for membership on the Cabinet, a vacancy shall be declared
and the vacancy shall be filled by Cabinet appointment for the remainder of the
term. If a vacancy occurs in the office of the Cabinet Chairholder, the Cabinet
shall appoint a Chair from among its members for the remainder of the term.
6. The chairholder shall serve as a representative of WSNA and as an official
spokesperson on matters of policy related to collective bargaining.
D. Responsibilities
The Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare shall
1. develop and review policies and procedures for the conduct of the WSNA
economic and general welfare program in keeping with the principles and policies
of the ANA and the UAN.
2. develop and review policies and procedures relating to the conduct of
collective bargaining contract administration, contract enforcement, organizing,
and other labor relations activities.
3. evaluate the implementation of policies and procedures developed by the
cabinet.
4. set priorities for functions and activities of WSNA labor relations.
5. formulate program objectives and periodically evaluate the state economic and
general welfare program.
6. establish standards for local units and approve local unit rules.
7. promote the organization of local units for the purpose of participating with
WSNA in its collective bargaining and related labor relations activities on
behalf of local units.
8. assure that each local unit accomplishes its collective bargaining aims
within the policies, procedures, and objectives established by the Cabinet on
Economic and General Welfare.
9. protect the rights and obligations of a local unit member in the conduct of
the collective bargaining process subject to the principle of fair and equal
representation within a democratic organization.
10. invoke, by an affirmative vote of two-thirds of the cabinet members present
and voting, trusteeship of a local unit when it is not complying with its rules
or with the standards established by the cabinet. Under trusteeship, the cabinet
members transact all business for the local unit until appropriate elections may
be held.
11. promote economic and general welfare educational programs.
12. evaluate developments and trends in health care practices and the general
economy in relation to the needs of nurses.
13. establish and maintain liaison with other groups.
14. prepare and submit a budget, and recommend fiscal policies on matters of
joint concern, to the Board of Directors for the economic and general welfare
program.
15. appoint ad hoc committees and define the purposes and delegated
responsibilities of each committee.
16. establish policies for managing and governing the collective bargaining
functions of WSNA.
17. establish specific policies and procedures for publication and distribution
of materials relating to the labor relations of WSNA that are consistent with
general policies for publication and distribution of materials adopted by the
WSNA Board of Directors.
18. recommend to the Board of Directors statements of position related to labor
relations.
19. establish standing rules of procedure for the function of the cabinet.
E. Economic and General Welfare Nominating/Search Committee
1. Composition
The Economic and General Welfare Nominating/Search Committee shall consist of
three members currently represented for collective bargaining by WSNA and
elected by secret ballot following the biennial meeting of the General Assembly
with appropriate provisions to allow for all eligible members to vote in
accordance with procedures established by the Board of Directors including but
not limited to a secret mail ballot. The person receiving the highest number of
votes shall serve as chairholder. Persons who are not elected to the committee
shall serve as alternates according to the order of votes received.
2. Term of Office and Vacancies
a. Members of the Economic and General Welfare Nominating/Search Committee shall
serve for a two-year term. A member is eligible to serve only two consecutive
terms or four consecutive years.
b. If a vacancy occurs on the Economic and General Welfare Nominating/Search
Committee, such vacancy shall be filled by an alternate.
3. Responsibilities
The responsibilities of the Economic and General Welfare Nominating/Search
Committee shall be to research and request names of candidates and prepare a
slate for election to the Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare, Economic and
General Welfare Nominating/Search Committee, and delegates and alternates to the
United American Nurses (UAN) National Labor Assembly according to procedures
adopted by the Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare.
F. Local Units
1. Definition
A WSNA local unit is an organized body of registered nurses and local unit
program members who elect to have the WSNA serve as their collective bargaining
agent.
2. Composition
The voting members of a local unit are dues-paying members of WSNA and local
unit program members.
3. Functions
The local unit's objectives are to:
a. participate with the WSNA in its dealings with the employer concerning
collective bargaining, contract administration, and other labor relations
matters.
b. serve as an advocate for local unit members in relation to the issues
affecting members of the local unit in a manner consistent with these bylaws and
the policies and positions of the WSNA.
G. Local Unit Leadership Council
1. Composition
The WSNA Local Unit Leadership Council is composed of local unit chairs or
designees.
2. Meetings
The Local Unit Leadership Council shall meet at least annually and reports to
the Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare.
SECTION 5. Professional Nursing and Health Care Council
A. Composition
There shall be eleven members on the Council. Seven are elected and four
appointed. Five of the seven elected positions are designated research,
education, practice, administration, and ethics and human rights, one at-large
and one as chairholder. The chairholder also serves on the WSNA Board of
Directors.
B. Election and Term of Office
1. Seven members shall be elected by secret ballot following each biennial
meeting of the General Assembly with appropriate provisions to allow for all
eligible members to vote in accordance with procedures established by the Board
of Directors, including but not limited to a secret mail ballot. The Board of
Directors shall determine the date a term shall begin for council members.
2. A term shall be for two years. A member is eligible to serve eight
consecutive years on the council.
C. Responsibilities
The council shall fulfill the responsibilities as defined by the Board of
Directors which are reviewed biennially and approved by the Board of Directors.
D. Meetings
The council shall meet three times a year, and shall report to the Board of
Directors. Task forces are appointed by the council subject to approval and
funding by the Board of Directors, and would meet to accomplish projects and
then be disbanded.
SECTION 6. Legislative and Health Policy Council
A. Composition
There shall be seven members on the council, four elected and three appointed.
The four
elected positions include three at-large and one chairholder. The chairholder
also serves on the WSNA Board of Directors.
B. Election and Term of Office
1. Four members shall be elected by secret ballot following each biennial
meeting of the General Assembly with appropriate provisions to allow for all
eligible members to vote in accordance with procedures established by the Board
of Directors, including but not limited to a secret mail ballot. The Board of
Directors shall determine the date a term shall begin for council members.
2. A term shall be for two years. A member is eligible to serve eight
consecutive years on the council.
C. Responsibilities
The council shall fulfill the responsibilities as defined by the Board of
Directors and reviewed biennially.
D. Meetings
The council shall meet three times a year and shall report to the Board of
Directors.
ARTICLE IX - CONSTITUENT ASSOCIATIONS
SECTION 1. Definition and Composition
A district nurses association or region is an officially recognized body of the
WSNA whose members reside or are employed within the jurisdictional boundaries
defined by the Board of Directors, hereinafter referred to as Constituent
Association.
SECTION 2. Jurisdictional Boundaries
A. The Board of Directors shall establish the jurisdictional boundaries for a
constituent association in consultation with the Constituent Representative
Council.
B. The need for change in jurisdictional boundaries may be identified by members
of the constituent association(s) or the WSNA Board of Directors. Notification
to the members of the constituent associations(s) shall be given ninety (90)
days prior to the date when the Board of Directors shall consider the question.
Changes may be made by mutual consent of the constituent association(s) involved
and the Board of Directors; absent mutual consent, the Board of Directors shall
have the final authority. An affirmative vote of two-thirds of the members of
the Board of Directors present and voting is required to change jurisdictional
boundaries.
SECTION 3. Qualifications
The bylaws of a recognized constituent association shall
A. require members of the constituent association to hold membership in the
WSNA.
B. include a statement of purpose that is supportive of the purposes and
functions of the WSNA.
C. provide for membership rights and obligations.
1. Members shall have the right to
a. participate in the General Assembly of the WSNA and the ANA House of
Delegates.
b. seek an elective or appointive office in the constituent association and the
WSNA. The right of a WSNA employee who is a member of a constituent association
or the WSNA shall be eligible to be a candidate for ANA elected office, but
excluded from WSNA constituent association elected office.
c. receive a mail secret ballot to vote for the elected officials and dues rate
of the constituent association.
d. attend unrestricted activities of the WSNA.
e. seek an elective or appointive position in the ANA or as an ANA
delegate/alternate.
2. A member has the obligation to
a. uphold the bylaws of ANA, the bylaw of WSNA and the bylaws of the constituent
association.
b. abide by the ANA Code of Ethics for Nurses.
SECTION 4. Services
Constituent associations shall be offered services by the WSNA as defined by the
Board of Directors of the WSNA.
SECTION 5. Withdrawal of Designation
By an affirmative vote of two-thirds of the present and voting members of the
Board of Directors of the WSNA, a constituent association designation may be
withdrawn when such a constituent association fails to meet the qualification
requirements or jurisdictional definition.
SECTION 6. Reinstatement of a Constituent Association
An organization whose designation as a constituent association has been
withdrawn may reapply for designation when members of the organization believe
the qualifications for designation are being met. Reinstatement shall be by an
affirmative vote of the majority of the members of the Board of Directors
present and voting.
ARTICLE X - WSNA PAC
WSNA PAC is the nonpartisan political action committee of the WSNA. It operates
in conformity with the policies and platforms of the WSNA/ANA and in accordance
with the bylaws approved by the WSNA Board of Directors.
ARTICLE XI - CONSTITUENT REPRESENTATIVE
COUNCIL
SECTION 1. Definition
The Constituent Representative Council is a representative assembly which
discusses constituent nursing affairs of mutual concern and promotes the
interest of the profession, WSNA and its membership.
SECTION 2. Composition
The Executive Director and Executive Committee of WSNA, and the president or a
designated WSNA constituent association member, shall constitute the Constituent
Representative Council.
The chief staff officer of the constituent association may attend meetings of
the Constituent Representative Council.
SECTION 3. Meetings
A meeting of the Constituent Representative Council shall be held at least
annually. Additional meetings shall be called upon the request of half of the
constituent associations.
SECTION 4. Authority
A. The Constituent Representative Council shall elect a chairperson from its
membership.
B. Duties of the Chair
1. compile agenda for meetings of the council;
2. serve as liaison to the WSNA Board of Directors;
3. serve as resource to members of the Constituent Representative Council.
C. The Constituent Representative Council shall report and may make
recommendations to the Board of Directors of WSNA relative to constituent
nursing issues and the profession.
SECTION 5. Affiliates
Two officers of SWANS shall be eligible to attend meetings of the Constituent
Representative Council.
SECTION 6. Voting
Each constituent association shall have one vote which must be cast by the
president or his/her designee.
ARTICLE XII - NURSING ORGANIZATION LIAISON
FORUM
SECTION 1. Definition
The Nursing Organization Liaison Forum shall be comprised of duly authorized
representatives of the WSNA and those nursing organizations which meet the
qualifications of these bylaws.
SECTION 2. Qualifications
A. have a mission and purpose harmonious with the purposes and functions of the
WSNA.
B. have a governing body comprised of a majority of registered nurses.
C. select a registered nurse as its representative to the Nursing Organization
Liaison Forum.
SECTION 3. Function
The Nursing Organization Liaison Forum shall meet at least annually to discuss
issues of common concern to members of the nursing profession and promote
concerted organizational action on such issues.
ARTICLE XIII - AMERICAN NURSES ASSOCIATION
SECTION 1. Definition
The American Nurses Association is the national nursing organization whose
membership is comprised of organizations and individuals who have member or
affiliate status.
SECTION 2. Relationship
The WSNA relationship to the ANA shall be to
A. maintain membership in the ANA by meeting the qualifications for membership
and pay the annual assessment for each individual member in accordance with
policies adopted by the ANA House of Delegates.
B. to insure that the members of the WSNA shall continue to have all rights of
membership in the ANA as provided in the ANA bylaws until such time as
two-thirds (2/3) of the entire WSNA membership votes to disaffiliate from the
ANA. “Washington State Nurses Association membership,” for these purposes, is
defined as individual members of the WSNA who have ANA rights and privileges of
membership as a result of their WSNA membership. The vote may occur by mail or
electronic ballot, with appropriate notice and procedures to protect the
integrity and validity of the vote.
The WSNA shall continue to pay dues to the ANA pursuant to the ANA bylaws and
House of Delegates policy until such time as two-thirds (2/3) of the entire WSNA
membership votes to disaffiliate from the ANA.
B. pay dues to the ANA annually in accordance with policies adopted by the ANA
House of Delegates.
C. honor the WSNA's contractual agreements with the ANA.
D. maintain staff liaison relationships with ANA staff. The parameters of the
relationship will be defined by the executive director of the WSNA.
E. hold voting seats in the ANA House of Delegates, Constituent Assembly, and
Association Organizational Members (AOMS) in accordance with ANA bylaws and
policies.
F. submit proposals for consideration by the ANA.
G. submit nominees for ANA elective and appointive positions.
H. submit the WSNA bylaws to the ANA upon their request.
I. uphold the purposes, functions, and bylaws of the ANA.
J. speak for nurses holding membership in the WSNA as a member of the ANA.
SECTION 3. Delegates
A. The number of delegates to represent the WSNA at the ANA House of Delegates
and the number of delegates to the UAN National Labor Assembly are specified in
the ANA and UAN Bylaws.
B. Delegates/alternates to the ANA House of Delegates shall be WSNA members
elected by the members of WSNA by secret ballot following each biennial meeting
of the General Assembly with appropriate provisions to allow for all members to
vote in accordance with procedures established by the Board of Directors,
including but not limited to a secret ballot. Categories of delegates/alternates
to the ANA House of Delegates shall be at-large and staff nurse.
Delegates/alternates shall be apportioned by these two categories based on the
number of members in each category. A member may only seek election in one
category for which they are qualified. All shall serve for a two-year term or
until successors are elected.
C. WSNA Delegates and Alternates to the UAN National Labor Assembly shall:
1. be WSNA members;
2. be elected by members of bargaining units represented by WSNA;
3. be elected by secret ballot for two-year terms;
4. be members of a bargaining unit represented by WSNA throughout the term of
office as delegate to the UAN National Labor Assembly;
5. serve as delegates for no more than four consecutive terms, exclusive of any
time served on the UAN Executive Council.
If a vacancy occurs in the office of UAN delegate, the position shall be filled
by the elected alternates in the order of votes received in the election.
D. Delegates representing the WSNA in the ANA House of Delegates shall uphold
the purposes and functions of the WSNA and be accountable to the members of the
WSNA in discharging their duties as authorized delegates of the WSNA.
ARTICLE XIV - FISCAL YEAR
The fiscal year of the WSNA shall be October 1 to September 30.
ARTICLE XV - OFFICIAL PUBLICATIONS
The American Nurse, The Washington Nurse and the WSNA
website shall be official publications of the ANA/WSNA. The Board of Directors
shall determine what other publications shall be official publications of the
WSNA.
ARTICLE XVI - PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITY
The latest edition of Robert's Rules of Order Newly Revised
shall govern meetings of the WSNA in all cases to which they are applicable and
in which they are not inconsistent with these bylaws and special rules adopted
by the WSNA.
ARTICLE XVII - AMENDMENTS
SECTION 1. Amendments With Notice
A. These bylaws may be amended at any biennial meeting of the General Assembly,
or by mail ballot, by an affirmative vote of two-thirds of the accredited WSNA
members voting, providing previous notice has been given.
B. Proposed amendments shall be in the possession of the secretary of the WSNA
at least ninety (90) days prior to the date for voting.
1. Notice of proposed amendments to be voted upon at the General Assembly shall
be submitted to the members at least thirty (30) days prior to the date
scheduled for the vote.
2. For a mail vote, proposed amendments and the ballot will be mailed out at
least thirty (30) days prior to the designated postmark due date for vote.
SECTION 2. Amendments Without Notice
These bylaws may be amended at any meeting of the General Assembly without
previous notice by an affirmative vote of ninety-nine percent (99%) of the
accredited WSNA members present and voting.
SECTION 3. Conformity With ANA
If at any time an amendment to these bylaws is required for conformity as a
constituent member of the ANA, the Board of Directors shall, and is hereby
authorized to, amend these articles to conform with the ANA requirements.
ARTICLE XVIII - SEPARABILITY
Should any part of these Bylaws or any provision herein contained be rendered or
declared invalid by reason of any existing or subsequently enacted legislation
or by any decree of a court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidation of any
such part or portion of these Bylaws shall not invalidate the remaining portions
hereof and they shall remain in full force and effect.
Bylaws Amended by the WSNA Membership, June 2003
Bylaws Amended by the WSNA Membership, June 2005 WASHINGTON STATE NURSES
ASSOCIATION
POLICY STATEMENT ON DUAL UNIONISM
WSNA recognizes and accepts the legal rights of members as protected by the
Constitution and federal and state statutes, to exercise their freedom of speech
and assembly; and to form, join and assist a labor organization. The exercise of
these rights, in and of themselves, does not constitute grounds for disciplinary
action taken by WSNA.
Dual unionism, which is prohibited by this policy, is defined as participation
in and assistance to one or more labor organizations which are in direct
competition with WSNA or ANA constituents such as WSNA or ANA constituents
acting for and representing the collective bargaining interests of the
profession and members.
Any WSNA member who participates in and gives assistance to one or more directly
competing labor organizations is subject to discipline for advocating or
engaging in any activities which would eliminate or interfere with the WSNA or
an ANA constituent association which is the collective bargaining representative
or is attempting to become the collective bargaining representative of
employees.
Members of WSNA who are in violation of this policy are subject to discipline by
WSNA under its bylaws.
Amended by the WSNA General Assembly, June 1993
PROVISO FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF 2005 AMENDMENTS
TO THE BYLAWS
Article VIII, Section 4. A., and 4. C. 4.
The Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare shall appoint three additional
members for a two-year term - 2005-2007 - on the Cabinet on Economic and General
Welfare.
The Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare shall appoint from its members the
initial Vice-Chair and Secretary/Treasurer to serve until the next election.
The Cabinet on Economic and General Welfare shall define the duties of the
Vice-Chair and Secretary/Treasurer.
PROVISO FOR DEFINITION OF DELEGATES
REPRESENTING STAFF NURSE AND AT-LARGE
There shall be two categories of ANA Delegates, Staff Nurse and At-Large.
Staff Nurse
To be eligible to serve as a staff Nurse, a WSNA member must be one who is
non-supervisory, non-managerial, and includes one or more of the following: (a)
is employed by a health care institution or agency; (b) whose primary role is as
a provider of direct patient care; (c) who is collective bargaining eligible
under applicable labor law.
At-Large
To be eligible to serve as an at-large delegate, a WSNA member must be one who
does not meet the qualifications of the staff nurse category.
ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION
THIS AGREEMENT, Made this 10th day of July, A.D. 1908,
WITNESSETH:
First: That we, May Loomis, M.C. Burnett, L. L. Goold, L. MacMillan, Laura
Wiseman, Etta B. Cummings, Mary C. Hawley, A.G. Green, Cora E. Gillespie, G. V.
Carlisle, C. C. Reeher, M. F. Heustis, Marion M. Minion and Julia C. Smith,
subscribers hereto, have associated and do hereby associate ourselves for the
purpose and with the intention of forming a corporation under the provisions of
an act of the Legislature of the State of Washington, entitled “An Act to
provide for the Incorporation of an Association for social, charitable, and
educational purposes, approved by the Governor of Washington on the 21st day of
March, 1895.”
Second: That the name of this corporation shall be “Washington State Graduate
Nurses’ Association.”
Third: That the objects for which said corporation is formed are, and shall be:
to federate and bring into one compact organization the nursing profession of
the State of Washington, and to unite with California and Oregon Associations,
to form a Tri-State Association with a view to the extension, advancement and
elevation of the standard of the nursing profession, and to secure the enactment
and enforcement of just nursing laws; to promote friendly intercourse among
nurses, and to guard and foster their material interests; to enlighten and
direct public opinion in regard to the standard of nurses so that the profession
shall become more capable and honorable within itself, and more useful to the
public in the prevention and cure of disease, and in prolonging and adding
comfort to life; to acquire, furnish and maintain a place or places for reading
rooms, libraries and social meetings for the members of this Association, and in
all lawful ways to acquire, hold or dispose of any and all real and personal
property necessary or convenient to carry on the uses and purposes now or
hereafter made the objects of this corporation.
Fourth: The said corporation shall be located in the City of Seattle, in King
County, State of Washington.
WITNESS our hands the day herein first above written.
(Signed) MAY S. LOOMIS
(Signed) MARION M. MINION
(Signed) CLARICE C. REEHER
(Signed) M. C. BURNETT
(Signed) ETTA B. CUMMINGS
(Signed) MARIE F. HEUSTIS
(Signed) LUELLA L. GOOLD
(Signed) MARY C. HAWLEY
(Signed) JULIA C. SMITH
(Signed) LAURA MacMILLAN
(Signed) ANNIE G. GREEN
(Signed) GLADYS V. CARLISLE
(Signed) LAURA M. WISEMAN
(Signed)CORA E. GILLESPIE
STATE OF WASHINGTON,)
)ss
COUNTY OF KING, )
We, the undersigned, being first duly sworn, each for himself and not one for
the other, deposes and says as follows: That the attached and foregoing
agreement is a true copy of the agreement entered into by the subscribers, whose
names are hereto attached for the purpose of forming a corporation, that the
date of the meeting of said subscribers to said agreement was on the 25th day of
June, 1908, at Tacoma, Pierce County, State of Washington.
(Signed) MAY S. LOOMIS, President
(Signed) GLADYS V. CARLISLE, Trustee or Councillor
(Signed) LAURA MacMILLAN, Secretary
(Signed) MARY C. HAWLEY, Trustee or Councillor
(Signed) ETTA B. CUMMINGS, Trustee or Councillor
(Signed) CORA E. GILLESPIE, Trustee or Councillor
(Signed) ANNIE G. GREEN, Trustee or Councillor.
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 10th day of July 1908.
W. ROGER REVELLE,
Notary Public in and for the State of
Washington, residing at Seattle
(Notarial Seal)
The Articles of Incorporation of the Washington State Graduate Nurses’
Association were amended on November 12th, 1940, changing the name to read:
WASHINGTON STATE NURSES ASSOCIATION
This amendment was filed with the office of the Secretary of State and the King
County Auditor.
