March 2010

Article 1: Mission Statement
Article 2: General Membership
Article 3: Office
Article 4: Meetings
Article 5: Committees
Article 6: Succession of Officers
Article 7: Conduct
Article 8: Amendment of By-Laws
Definitions
ACC – Assistant Crew Chief
AEMT – New York State Advanced Emergency Medical Technician – Intermediate or
Critical Care
ALS – Advanced Life Support
ATT – Attendant
CC – Crew Chief
Chief’s Office – Chief of Operations, 1 st Assistant Chief, and 2 nd Assistant Chief
CPR – Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
EMS – Emergency Medical Services
EMT – New York State Emergency Medical Technician
EMT-P – New York State Emergency Medical Technician – Paramedic
EVO – Emergency Vehicle Operator
Executive board – President’s Office plus Secretary and Treasurer
General membership – All members of SBVAC
GMM – General membership meeting
HQ – Headquarters of SBVAC
LOA – Leave of absence
NYSDOH – New York State Department of Health
Office – All officers of SBVAC
OM – Officer meeting
Operations board – Chief’s Office plus Captain and Lieutenant
OSHA – Occupational Health and Safety Administration
President’s Office – President and Vice President
Quorum – Attendance by at least 2/3 of active full members of SBVAC
Quorum of Office – Attendance by at least 2/3 of Office
Quorum vote – Approval by at least 2/3 of active full members of SBVAC
Quorum vote by Office – Approval by at least 2/3 of Office
SBVAC – The Stony Brook Volunteer Ambulance Corps
SOP – Standard Operating Procedures of SBVAC
1.
Mission Statement
1.1.
Title – The organization shall be known as the Stony Brook Volunteer
Ambulance Corps, Inc., a not-for-profit firm incorporated in 1972 under the laws of New York State.
1.2.
Objective – SBVAC shall render emergency medical care to any and all persons within their primary territory requiring such assistance and shall transport such persons to the nearest emergency medical receiving facility as necessary. SBVAC shall provide such services without prejudice of race, heritage, sex, age, religion, nationality, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, or status as a military veteran.
1.3.
Function of the By-Laws of SBVAC – The general membership shall adhere to all articles of these By-Laws except where superseded by writs, laws, or regulations of local, county, state, or federal agencies.
1.3.1.
Function of the Standard Operating Procedures of SBVAC – The SOP, prescribed by the Chief of Operations, shall define the EMS operations of SBVAC but shall not supplant any articles of these By-Laws.
2.
General Membership – The general membership shall consist of all active and adjunct members.
2.1.
Active Membership – The active membership of SBVAC shall consist of the full, probationary, associate, honorary, lifetime, and community members who currently serve at least one regular weekly shift.
2.1.1.
Full Members – Full members shall consist of only those who have graduated probationary membership to hold a SBVAC capacity of CC,
ACC, EVO, or ATT.
2.1.1.1.
Responsibilities – Full members shall comply with the By-Laws,
SOP, and decisions of Office in order to maintain full membership.
2.1.1.1.1.
All articles of the By-Laws and SOP shall remain in effect throughout the summer sessions unless explicitly exempted by Office.
2.1.1.2.
Minimum Progress Rate – Full members shall have one year’s time after the date of their first probationary class to become an
EVO of SBVAC and/or enroll in a NYSDOH certified EMT course. Members opting to enroll in an EMT course must pass the certification exam within eighteen months of the date of their first probationary class. Individual exceptions to this minimum progress rate may be granted at the discretion of Office.
2.1.2.
Probationary Members – Probationary members shall consist of all new members of SBVAC.
2.1.2.1.
Eligibility – Probationary members must be over seventeen years of age and must be physically and emotionally able to perform the tasks of EMS.

2.1.2.2.
Application -- New member applications shall be accepted at the beginning of each fall and spring semester. Applicants must submit the following documents by a deadline specified by the
President: 1) A completed new member application containing general information; 2) Short essays satisfying the Personal
Statement question(s) composed by the President; 3) A doctor’s declaration of fitness for EMS or a signed authorization to access the applicant’s SUNY Stony Brook health records if the applicant is currently enrolled in or employed by SUNY Stony
Brook.
2.1.2.3.
Responsibilities – Probationary members shall comply with the
By-Laws, SOP, and decisions of Office in order to maintain probationary membership.
2.1.2.4.
Probationary Training – Probationary members shall complete all components of the SBVAC probationary training prescribed by the Captain.
2.1.2.4.1.
Probationary members shall attend a site-specific OSHA class arranged by the Captain during the first thirty days of the semester.
2.1.2.4.2.
Probationary members possessing a valid EMT, AEMT, or
EMT-P certificate, or other certificate deemed acceptable by the Captain, may be exempted from portions of the probationary training at the discretion of the Chief’s
Office.
2.1.2.4.3.
Probationary members who possess an expired EMT,
AEMT, or EMT-P certificate and have not enrolled in a
NYSDOH certified refresher course prior to the first day of the probationary training shall attend the SBVAC probationary training in its entirety.
2.1.2.4.4.
Probationary members shall pass the attendant exam conducted by the Captain at the conclusion of the probationary training in order to graduate to full membership.
2.1.2.5.
Duration – A member’s probationary period shall begin on the first day of the probationary training and shall end when the probationary member is installed as a full member.
2.1.2.5.1.
After satisfactory completion of the probationary training, probationary members shall be installed as full members at the following GMM by reciting the oath, “I, ____, witnessed by the general members of the Stony Brook
Volunteer Ambulance Corps, hereby swear to uphold, at all times, the By-Laws, SOP, and orders of the officers, to fulfill my duties as a full member, and to act in the best interest of the company.”
2.1.2.6.
Termination – A quorum vote by Office may dismiss any probationary member deemed to be unacceptable for full membership for reasons including, but not limited to those stated in 7.2.
2.1.2.6.1.
Any probationary member who has received two letters of disciplinary action during their probationary period shall be dismissed from SBVAC and may not reapply for membership without a quorum vote by Office.
2.1.2.6.2.
Whenever dismissal of a probationary member is considered by Office, probationary class instructors shall be invited to present any pertinent information but shall not vote in the proceedings. Any probationary member may also be invited by Office to such proceedings but shall not cast a vote.
2.1.2.7.
Summer Sessions – Probationary members may apply for summer sessions.
2.2.
Adjunct Membership – The adjunct membership shall consist of the associate, honorary, lifetime, and community members who do not currently serve at least one regular weekly shift.
2.2.1.
Associate Membership
2.2.1.1.
Eligibility – Any full member may apply for associate membership after completing any of the following: 1) Three years of active membership; 2) One full semester (not a summer session) as an officer during two years of active membership; 3)
One year as a CC and/or EVO during two years of active membership. Exceptions to these requirements may be granted at the discretion of Office. Associate membership requires a quorum vote by Office.
2.2.1.2.
Privileges – An associate member is permitted, but not required, to staff shifts, respond to alarms, and perform other duties as an active member under their current SBVAC capacity (i.e. CC,
EVO, ATT) provided that they possess an appropriate, effective certification and have completed site-specific OSHA training.
2.2.1.3.
Restrictions – Associate members are not entitled to any benefits of full membership (e.g. Thanksgiving or installation dinners, priority registration for students, voting privileges) unless explicitly excepted by Office.
2.2.1.4.
Duration – The duration of an associate membership shall not exceed the total number of semesters served as an active member, although associate membership may be renewed for a like amount of time by a quorum vote by Office.
2.2.1.4.1.
A quorum vote by Office is required to terminate an associate membership. Such termination may be appealed through the grievance process.

2.2.2.
Lifetime Membership
2.2.2.1.
Eligibility – Any full member who has never received a letter of warning may apply for lifetime membership after completing any of the following: 1) One year as an officer during five years of active membership; 2) Two years as a CC and/or two years as an
EVO during five years of active membership. Lifetime membership requires unanimous approval by Office.
2.2.2.1.1.
Lifetime members who have served one year as an officer shall be known as Officer Life Members.
2.2.2.1.2.
Lifetime members who have served two years as a CC shall be known as CC Life Members.
2.2.2.1.3.
Lifetime members who have served two years as an EVO shall be known as EVO Life Members.
2.2.2.2.
Privileges – A lifetime member is permitted, but not required, to staff shifts, respond to alarms, and perform other duties as an active member under their current SBVAC capacity (i.e. CC,
EVO, ATT) provided that they possess and appropriate, effective certification and have completed site-specific OSHA training.
2.2.2.3.
Restrictions – A lifetime member shall be granted the benefits of full membership (e.g. Thanksgiving or installation dinners, priority registration for students, voting privileges).
2.2.2.3.1.
A lifetime member may serve as an officer or vote in an officer election only while maintaining active membership.
2.2.2.4.
Duration – A lifetime membership shall remain effective as long as desired by the lifetime member.
2.2.2.4.1.
A quorum vote by Office is required to terminate a lifetime membership. Such termination may be appealed through the grievance process.
2.2.3.
Honorary Membership
2.2.3.1.
Eligibility – Any full member may apply for honorary membership after completing any of the following: 1) One year as an officer during four years of active membership; 2) Two years as a CC and/or EVO during four years of active membership. Honorary membership for full members requires unanimous approval by Office.
2.2.3.1.1.
Any non-member of SBVAC may apply for honorary membership only by invitation from a quorum vote by
Office. Honorary membership for invitees requires unanimous approval by Office.
2.2.3.2.
Privileges – An honorary member is permitted, but not required, to staff shifts, respond to alarms, and perform other duties as an active member under their current SBVAC capacity (i.e. CC,
EVO, ATT) provided that they possess an appropriate, effective certification and have completed site-specific OSHA training.
2.2.3.3.
Restrictions – Honorary members are not entitled to any benefits of full membership (e.g. Thanksgiving or installation dinners, priority registration for students, voting privileges) unless explicity excepted by Office.
2.2.3.4.
Duration – An honorary membership shall remain effective as long as desired by the honorary member.
2.2.3.4.1.
A quorum vote by Office is required to terminate an associate membership. Such termination may be appealed through the grievance process.
2.2.4.
Community Membership
2.2.4.1.
Eligibility – Any non-member of SBVAC may apply for community membership only by invitation from a quorum vote by Office. Community membership requires unanimous approval by Office.
2.2.4.1.1.
Invitations for community membership shall only be offered to those who need not or are unable to attend the entirety of the probationary training conducted by
SBVAC.
2.2.4.2.
Privileges – A community member is permitted, but not required, to staff shifts, respond to alarms, and perform other duties as an active member under their current SBVAC capacity (i.e. CC,
EVO, ATT) provided that they possess an appropriate, effective certification and have completed site-specific OSHA training.
2.2.4.3.
Restrictions – Community members are not entitled to any benefits of full membership (e.g. Thanksgiving or installation dinners, priority registration for students, voting privileges) unless explicity excepted by Office.
2.2.4.3.1.
A community member may not serve as an officer.
2.2.4.4.
Duration – Each individual community membership shall be evaluated for renewal by Office after every semester.
2.2.4.4.1.
A quorum vote by Office is required to terminate a community membership.
2.3.
Maintenance of Active Membership
2.3.1.
Semester Transitions – Active members shall complete a returning membership form at the commencement of each semester in order to update contact information and schedule regular weekly shifts.
2.3.2.
Outstanding Letters of Disciplinary Action – Members who have not resolved a letter of disciplinary action may be denied or deferred active membership by a quorum vote by the current Office.
2.3.3.
Resignation – A member resigning their SBVAC capacity (i.e. CC,
EVO, ATT) or their membership entirely shall submit a letter of resignation to the Vice President.
2.3.3.1.
No Vote – Office shall accept, without vote, any letter of resignation.

2.3.3.2.
Confidentiality – Any information presented to Office by a resigning member must remain confidential unless disclosure, partial or complete, to the general membership is explicitly requested by the resigning member.
2.3.3.3.
Return From Complete Resignation – Previous members requesting to return from their complete resignation shall reapply as new probationary members in accordance to 2.1.2.
2.3.3.3.1.
Reinstatement of a re-accepted member’s previous
SBVAC capacity (i.e. CC, EVO, ATT) requires approval by the Chief’s Office.
2.4.
Leave of Absence – Any member without any outstanding letters of disciplinary action may request a leave of absence from active membership for reasons of medical, personal, or military obligations.
2.4.1.
Documentation for a LOA shall include a signed acknowledgement of the terms of 2.4.
2.4.2.
Responsibilities – Members on LOA must secure appropriate shift coverage for the duration of their LOA.
2.4.2.1.
The Vice President shall be notified in advance, via written documentation, whenever appropriate shift coverage cannot be obtained.
2.4.3.
Duration – A LOA shall take effect upon review and approval by
Office.
2.4.3.1.
Medical or Military LOA – A LOA for medical or military obligations shall bear no expiry.
2.4.3.2.
Personal LOA – A LOA for personal obligations shall not extend beyond the end of the current semester.
2.4.3.2.1.
A member unable to return to active membership before the expiration of their LOA may apply for any type of adjunct membership in lieu of complete resignation from membership.
2.4.4.
Return From LOA
2.4.4.1.
Medical LOA – Members returning from a medical LOA must submit a renewed doctor’s declaration of fitness for EMS.
2.4.4.2.
Personal LOA – Members returning from a personal LOA must obtain approval by a quorum vote by Office.
2.4.4.2.1.
Any information presented to Office by a member returning from a personal LOA must remain confidential.
2.4.4.3.
Military LOA – Members returning from a military LOA shall be unconditionally reinstated.
3.
Office – The Office of SBVAC shall consist of the Executive Board and the
Operations Board.
3.1.
Executive Board – The Executive Board shall consist of the President, Vice
President, Treasurer, and Secretary.
3.1.1.
President – The President shall be the ranking executive officer and shall resolutely execute the By-Laws.
3.1.1.1.
Responsibilities – The President shall chair SBVAC’s proceedings, oversee any legal transactions, and be SBVAC’s liaison to SUNY Stony Brook.
3.1.1.1.1.
The President shall disclose to the general membership any matters that affect SBVAC as a whole.
3.1.1.2.
Power to Overrule – The President may overrule any executive officer.
3.1.2.
Vice President – The Vice President shall be the second-ranking executive officer and shall resolutely execute the By-Laws.
3.1.2.1.
Responsibilities – The Vice President shall succeed the President in SBVAC’s proceedings and oversee matters of personnel, insurance, HQ maintenance, and web and Blackboard sites.
3.1.2.1.1.
The Vice President shall consult with the Treasurer and 2 nd
Assistant Chief in handling insurance matters.
3.1.2.2.
Power to Overrule – The Vice President may overrule only the
Treasurer and Secretary.
3.1.3.
Treasurer
3.1.3.1.
Responsibilities – The Treasurer shall manage the financial matters of SBVAC.
3.1.3.1.1.
The Treasurer shall record all expenditures and receivables.
3.1.3.1.2.
At least once per month, the Treasurer shall report assets and liabilities for recording in the officer minutes.
3.1.3.1.3.
By the first day of each February, the Treasurer shall have arranged for the annual audit by an independent certified public accountant.
3.1.3.1.4.
All checks, drafts, and vouchers must be signed by the
Treasurer and cosigned by the President.
3.1.3.1.4.1.
As a contingency plan for an extended absence or resignation of the President, the Vice President shall be registered as a cosigner for SBVAC’s bank accounts.
3.1.4.
Secretary
3.1.4.1.
Responsibilities – The Secretary shall manage the records, meeting minutes, and correspondence for SBVAC.
3.1.4.1.1.
The Secretary shall issue minutes for general membership and officer meetings within one week of each meeting.
3.1.4.1.2.
The Secretary shall tally and issue call statistics at least once per semester.
3.1.4.1.3.
The Secretary shall direct the Alumni Committee.
3.2.
Operations Board – The Operations Board shall consist of the Chief of
Operations, 1 st Assistant Chief, 2 nd Assistant Chief, Captain, and Lieutenant.

3.2.1.
Chief of Operations – The Chief of Operations shall be the ranking operations officer and shall resolutely execute the SOP.
3.2.1.1.
Responsibilities – The Chief of Operations shall oversee regular
EMS operations, special EMS operations, and be SBVAC’s liaison to local, county, state, and federal police, fire, or emergency service agencies.
3.2.1.1.1.
The Chief of Operations shall disclose to the general membership any matters that affect SBVAC as a whole.
3.2.1.2.
Power to Overrule – The Chief of Operations may overrule any operations officer.
3.2.2.
1 st Assistant Chief – The 1 st Assistant Chief shall be the second-ranking operations officer and shall resolutely execute the SOP.
3.2.2.1.
Responsibilities – The 1 st Assistant Chief shall oversee crew chiefs and ALS providers, ensuring delivery of the highest standard of patient care.
3.2.2.1.1.
The 1 st Assistant Chief shall direct and document the continual training of crew chiefs.
3.2.2.1.2.
The 1 st Assistant Chief shall oversee ALS training and
ALS equipment.
3.2.2.2.
Power to Overrule – The 1 st Assistant Chief may overrule only the 2 nd Assistant Chief, Captain, and Lieutenant.
3.2.3.
2 nd Assistant Chief – The 2 nd Assistant Chief shall be the third-ranking operations officer and shall resolutely execute the SOP.
3.2.3.1.
Responsibilities – The 2 nd Assistant Chief shall ensure the wellbeing and safety of the general membership by coordinating
SBVAC’s compliance with health and safety regulations and by managing SBVAC’s ambulances.
3.2.3.1.1.
The 2 nd Assistant Chief shall direct and document the continual training of emergency vehicle operators.
3.2.3.1.2.
The 2 nd Assistant Chief shall ensure proper maintenance and repair of SBVAC’s ambulances.
3.2.3.2.
Power to Overrule – The 2 nd Assistant Chief may overrule only the Captain and Lieutenant.
3.2.4.
Captain
3.2.4.1.
Responsibilities – The Captain shall oversee attendants and probationary members, ensuring delivery of the highest standard of patient care.
3.2.4.1.1.
The Captain shall direct and document the continual training of attendants.
3.2.4.1.2.
The Captain shall facilitate members’ fulfillment of the minimum progress rate.
3.2.4.1.3.
The Captain shall prescribe semesterly training requirements for the active membership.
3.2.5.
Lieutenant
3.2.5.1.
Responsibilities – The Lieutenant shall manage all equipment, materials, and uniforms used for patient care.
3.2.5.1.1.
The Lieutenant shall ensure compliance with NYSDOH
EMS equipment regulations.
3.2.5.1.2.
The Lieutenant shall coordinate the purchase of members’ personal uniforms and maintain any in-house response clothing.
3.3.
Prerequisites for Officers – The following prerequisites shall be sustained by officers throughout the duration of their term.
3.3.1.
Membership Status – Active full membership according to 2.1.
3.3.2.
Certification and Capacity – An effective EMT certificate and a
SBVAC capacity of CC and/or EVO.
3.3.2.1.
Certificate Lapse During Term – Should the President’s or Vice
President’s EMT certificate expire prior to completion of an inprogress recertification, they shall preserve their SBVAC CC capacity only for administrative responsibilities.
3.3.2.1.1.
The President or Vice President shall not provide any nature of patient care as a CC during such a certificate lapse.
3.3.2.1.2.
The President or Vice President shall resign their office should they fail to complete their in-progress recertification.
3.3.3.
Tenure of Membership – An officer must have already completed either 1) one full semester as an active full member, or 2) one entire summer of active service.
3.3.4.
Probation – No member on probation may run for, or hold, a position in
Office.
3.4.
Office Auxiliaries
3.4.1.
Officer’s Aides – An officer may appoint a willing general member to assist with the officer’s responsibilities.
3.4.1.1.
An aide must be approved by a quorum vote by Office.
3.4.1.2.
An aide shall not assume any authorities of their appointing officer.
3.4.1.3.
An aide shall only perform the tasks specifically assigned by their appointing officer.
3.4.1.4.
The appointing officer may relieve their aide at any time.
3.4.1.5.
The tenure of an aide shall not exceed that of their appointing officer.
3.4.2.
Summer Appointments – An officer may appoint a capable active full member to temporarily assume their responsibilities and authorities should the officer anticipate an extended absence during a summer session. Summer appointments require a quorum vote by the elected
Office.

3.4.2.1.
The officer and appointee shall maintain timely and adequately regular communication in order to ensure proper execution of the officer’s responsibilities.
3.4.2.2.
The officer reserves ultimate authority over the appointee.
3.4.2.3.
The appointing officer or a quorum vote by the elected Office may relieve a summer appointee.
3.4.2.4.
A summer appointment for Chief of Operations requires approval by the elected President in addition to a quorum vote by the elected Office.
3.4.2.4.1.
A summer appointee of Chief of Operations shall not rank the elected 1 st and 2 nd Assistant Chiefs.
3.4.2.4.2.
A summer appointee of Chief of Operations shall defer to the elected Chief of Operations any matters that affect
SBVAC as a whole.
3.5.
Special Authorities and Restrictions
3.5.1.
Decisions Affecting SBVAC – All decisions affecting SBVAC as a whole shall be made by quorum vote by Office.
3.5.2.
Emergency Expenditures Under $1000 – The President or Treasurer may authorize up to $1000 for emergency expenditures only when absolutely and imminently necessary.
3.5.2.1.
An emergency expenditure remains subject to quorum vote by
Office.
3.5.2.2.
Expenditures Over $1000 – Individual expenditures of more than
$1000 must be approved by a quorum vote.
3.5.3.
Temporary Chief’s Deputy – In the event of a reasonable inability to contact any of the Chiefs for some urgently needed determination affecting a regular or special EMS operation (i.e. a situational necessity to deviate from the SOP), the Captain may make a temporary determination on behalf of the Chief’s Office.
3.5.3.1.
In exercising this faculty, the Captain does not permanently assume any authorities of the Chief’s Office.
4.
Meetings
4.1.
Regular Meetings
4.1.1.
General Membership Meetings – General membership meetings shall be chaired by the President or Vice President and shall be open to all general members of SBVAC.
4.1.1.1.
Interval – The President shall call at least three general membership meetings throughout each fall and spring semester.
4.1.1.1.1.
The President shall call at least one GMM during each of the two summer sessions.
4.1.1.2.
Date and Time – General membership meetings shall be held on the first Wednesday of a month, at or around 2030 hours.
4.1.1.2.1.
During the summer sessions, and fall and spring semesters, the President may schedule a GMM for any other reasonable day or time in order to achieve quorum
4.1.1.3.
Attendance – Attendance by at least twenty percent of the active full membership is required to conduct a GMM.
4.1.1.3.1.
Each active full member may have one excused GMM absence per semester with the Vice President’s approval ahead of time.
4.1.1.3.1.1.
Absences shall be documented and signed by the absentee on a GMM absence form.
4.1.1.3.1.2.
Absences from more than one GMM per semester may be granted at the Vice President’s discretion.
4.1.1.3.2.
The Vice President or Secretary shall also be notified, in advance, of any general member’s late arrival or early departure from a GMM.
4.1.1.4.
Order of business – A GMM shall proceed as follows: 1) A call to order; 2) The Pledge of Allegiance; 3) Written roll-call; 4)
Agenda; 5) Minutes of the previous GMM; 6) Officers’ reports;
7) Committees’ reports; 7) Old business; 8) New business; 9)
Adjournment.
4.1.1.5.
Motions – A motion shall proceed as follows: 1) Opening of the motion (e.g. a motion to end discussion of the topic); 2)
Endorsement of the motion (i.e. a second); 3) Yea count; 4) Nay count; 5) Abstention count.
4.1.1.5.1.
Only one motion shall be open at a time.
4.1.1.5.2.
Any general member may open or endorse a motion.
4.1.1.5.3.
Should a motion require action that contradicts any article of these By-Laws, the following additional conditions shall apply.
4.1.1.5.3.1.
The call to vote on the motion shall be postponed at least five business days from its opening to allow time for consideration.
4.1.1.5.3.2.
The motion shall require a quorum vote (approval by at least 2/3 of active full members) in order to pass.
4.1.1.6.
Voting – A quorum (i.e. attendance by at least two-thirds of the active full membership) is required to call a vote.
4.1.1.6.1.
Only the chairperson of the meeting (i.e. the President or
Vice President) may open a motion to vote.
4.1.1.6.2.
The chairperson shall always abstain from voting in an open vote.
4.1.1.6.2.1.
If an open vote yields a tie, the chairperson shall: 1) call a re-vote; 2) reopen discussion of the topic and then call a re-vote; or 3) cast the deciding vote.

4.1.1.6.2.1.1.
If a re-vote also yields a tie, the chairperson must cast the deciding vote.
4.1.1.6.3.
The chairperson may opt to conduct a confidential vote
(i.e. written vote) instead of an open vote.
4.1.1.6.3.1.
In a confidential vote, the chairperson is not required to abstain from voting.
4.1.1.6.3.2.
If a confidential vote yields a tie, the chairperson must reopen discussion of the topic before calling a confidential re-vote.
4.1.1.6.3.2.1.
The chairperson may not cast a deciding vote when a confidential vote yields a tie.
4.1.2.
Officer Meetings – Officer meetings shall be chaired by the President or Vice President and shall be open to all general members of SBVAC.
4.1.2.1.
Interval – The President shall call an OM at least once every two weeks during the fall and spring semesters.
4.1.2.1.1.
The President may call officer meetings less frequently than once every two weeks during summer sessions.
4.1.2.2.
Date and Time – An OM may be scheduled for any reasonable date and time.
4.1.2.3.
Attendance – A quorum of Office is required to conduct an OM.
4.1.2.3.1.
All officers are required to attend all officer meetings.
4.1.2.3.2.
The President’s Office may grant an excused absence for an OM.
4.1.2.3.3.
A quorum vote by Office may force the resignation of an officer who has been absent from either 1) three consecutive officer meetings in one semester, or 2) a total of four officer meetings in one semester.
4.1.2.4.
Order of business – An OM shall proceed as follows: 1) A call to order; 2) Written roll-call; 3) Agenda; 4) Minutes of the previous
OM; 5) Officers’ reports; 6) Old business; 7) New business; 8)
Adjournment.
4.1.2.4.1.
An officer may call a confidential officers’ conference (i.e. executive session) at any time during an OM.
4.1.2.4.1.1.
General members shall go on recess during an officers’ conference.
4.1.2.4.1.2.
Any proceedings of an officers’ conference shall not be recorded in the minutes of the OM.
4.1.2.4.1.3.
Financial matters may not be discussed during an officer’s conference.
4.1.2.5.
Motions – See 4.1.1.5.
4.1.2.6.
Voting – A quorum of Office is required to call a vote.
4.1.2.6.1.
See 4.1.1.6.1 through 4.1.1.6.3.
4.2.
Other Meetings
4.2.1.
Special Meetings – In addition to regular general membership and officer meetings, special meetings may be called when necessary.
4.2.1.1.
Authority – Any general member may call a special meeting.
4.2.1.1.1.
Whenever a special meeting is called by a member other than the President or the Chief of Operations, the Secretary shall be given, in advance: 1) a written petition to hold the special meeting; 2) the signatures from at least fifteen active full members endorsing the cause for the special meeting; and 3) a written agenda for the special meeting.
4.2.1.1.2.
The President shall yield the chairperson role to the Chief of Operations whenever a special meeting poses any potential conflict of interest for the President.
5.
Committees
5.1.
Officer-Elections Committees – The ballot and election committees shall ensure procedural neutrality in each annual officer election.
5.1.1.
Ballot Committee – The ballot committee shall issue a ballot of officer candidates after verifying their individual eligibilities, according to 3.3 and 6.1.1, and their individual endorsements, according to 6.1.2.2.1.
5.1.1.1.
The Secretary shall convene the ballot committee after nominations have concluded by randomly selecting three members and two alternates from the active full membership.
5.1.1.1.1.
The ballot committee may not include current officers, nominees, officer’s aides, or grievance committee members.
5.1.1.1.2.
As soon as the ballot committee has been assembled, the
Secretary shall no longer participate in any proceedings of the committee.
5.1.1.1.3.
Service on the ballot committee is mandatory and enforceable by penalty of dismissal from membership.
5.1.1.2.
The President, Vice President, or Secretary shall grant the ballot committee access to nominees’ personnel records in order to verify their eligibility.
5.1.2.
Election Committee – The election committee shall verify and publish the outcome of the electronic election.
5.1.2.1.
The Secretary shall convene the election committee after nominations have concluded by randomly selecting five members and two alternates from the active full membership.
5.1.2.1.1.
The election committee shall cooperatively designate one of its five members as chairperson.
5.1.2.1.2.
The election committee may not include current officers, nominees, officer’s aides, or grievance committee members.

5.1.2.1.3.
As soon as the ballot committee has been assembled, the
Secretary shall no longer participate in any proceedings of the committee.
5.1.2.1.4.
Service on the election committee is mandatory and enforceable by penalty of dismissal from membership.
5.1.2.2.
After the conclusion of an officer election, the election committee shall issue a categorized tally of votes.
5.1.2.2.1.
Should a write-in candidate appear on the final tally of votes, the ballot committee shall verify their individual eligibility according to 3.3 and 6.1.1.
5.2.
Grievance Committee – The grievance committee shall confidentially and neutrally arbitrate concerns of the general membership that have not been resolved through, or arise from, regular proceedings of SBVAC.
5.2.1.
Responsibilities – The grievance committee shall resolutely execute, and shall not supersede, the By-Laws and SOP.
5.2.2.
Committee Composition – The grievance committee shall consist of thirteen active full members randomly selected and then randomly ordered one-through-thirteen by the Secretary at each semester’s beginning.
5.2.2.1.
The Secretary shall immediately replace, by random selection, any grievance committee member who becomes ineligible for the committee during the course of the semester.
5.2.2.2.
The grievance committee may not include current officers or officer’s aides.
5.2.2.3.
Service on the grievance committee is mandatory and enforceable by penalty of dismissal from membership.
Exceptions may only be granted by a quorum vote by Office.
5.2.3.
Authority – Any general member may request a grievance hearing by submitting to the Secretary a written statement identifying the specific grievance(s), the plaintiff(s), and the defendant(s).
5.2.3.1.
No double jeopardy – No grievance may be filed for the same specific concern against the same defendant(s) as any previous grievance.
5.2.4.
Grievance Process
5.2.4.1.
Initiation of a Grievance Hearing – The Secretary shall convene a grievance hearing board by summoning the first five members in the ordered queue of the thirteen-member grievance committee.
5.2.4.1.1.
Each new grievance filed in the same semester shall be arbitrated by a discrete grievance hearing board consisting of the next five members in the ordered queue (i.e. members 6-10, then 11-2, 3-8…)
5.2.4.1.2.
Each grievance hearing board shall designate as chairperson one of its five members
5.2.4.2.
Assignment – The Secretary shall deliver the written statement to the chairperson.
5.2.4.2.1.
As soon as the written grievance is presented to the chairperson, the Secretary shall no longer participate in any proceedings except as a plaintiff, defendant, or witness.
5.2.4.3.
Preparation – The chairperson shall schedule a date and time for the hearing and reveal the identities of the board’s members to the plaintiff(s) and defendant(s).
5.2.4.3.1.
The defendant(s) shall reserve the option to replace up to three hearing board members with the next grievance committee members in the ordered queue if their impartially is suspect.
5.2.4.3.2.
If Office as a whole is named as the defendant, up to two officers may represent Office in the hearing.
5.2.4.3.3.
The grievance hearing board shall cooperatively design a procedure for the hearing (e.g. number of witnesses permitted, relevance of witnesses).
5.2.4.4.
Outcome – Final decisions of the grievance hearing board must be made by a majority vote.
5.2.4.4.1.
The final decision for a grievance appealing a decision of
Office may only be 1) sustention of the decision, or 2) repeal of the decision.
5.2.4.4.1.1.
The final decision for a grievance appealing the dismissal of a member by Office must be reached by unanimous vote.
5.2.4.5.
Compliance – The general membership, including Office, must comply with any final decisions of the grievance hearing board.
5.2.4.5.1.
Any instance of noncompliance subsequent to a final decision shall be reported to the chairperson of the particular grievance hearing board which had issued the final decision. The chairperson shall then report the instance to the general membership.
5.2.4.6.
Appeal of a Final Decision – Any member may appeal to Office the final decision of a grievance hearing by submitting a written petition to the Secretary no later than five days following the contested hearing.
5.2.4.6.1.
An OM addressing such an appeal requires the attendance of all members of the contested grievance hearing board.
5.2.4.6.2.
Office shall only review the same evidence that had been presented at the contested grievance hearing.
5.2.4.6.3.
No circular appeals -- No grievance hearing addressing an original decision of Office may be appealed in this manner.

5.3.
Alumni Committee – The alumni committee shall maintain records of
SBVAC alumni.
5.3.1.
Chairperson – The Secretary shall chair the alumni committee.
5.4.
Special Committees – The President may convene special committees as needed for addressing specific matters.
5.4.1.
Chairperson – The President shall appoint a qualified chairperson for any special committee convened.
6.
Succession of Officers
6.1.
Officer Elections – An election for all nine officer positions shall occur at the end of each spring semester.
6.1.1.
Eligibility for Office – In addition to those prerequisites stated in 3.3,
officer candidates and officers elect shall satisfy the following conditions.
6.1.1.1.
Tenure of Membership – An officer candidate must have completed one full semester, in its entirety, as an active full member by the time of the annual officer election (e.g. a member from the probationary class of the preceding fall semester has not yet completed the entire spring semester and thus is ineligible to run for Office).
6.1.1.2.
Semester Requirements – An officer elect must complete any outstanding semester requirements prior to taking office.
6.1.1.3.
Qualifications – Candidates for the President’s or Chief’s Office must satisfy the following additional prerequisites.
6.1.1.3.1.
President’s Office – Candidates must have maintained active full membership for forty weeks and have CC capacity at the time of their nomination.
6.1.1.3.2.
Chief’s Office – Candidates must have maintained active full membership for forty weeks and have maintained CC capacity for twelve weeks at the time of their nomination.
6.1.1.3.2.1.
2 nd Assistant Chief – Candidates must also have maintained EVO capacity for twelve weeks.
6.1.1.4.
Individual Exemptions – The ballot committee may grant exemption from the CC/EVO capacity prerequisite to candidates for Treasurer, Secretary, Captain, or Lieutenant.
6.1.1.4.1.
A quorum vote (approval by at least 2/3 of active full members) is required for an exemption.
6.1.1.4.2.
The President must comply in a timely manner with any request of the ballot committee to call a vote for an exemption.
6.1.2.
Election Procedure – An officer election shall proceed as follows.
6.1.2.1.
Nominations – The President shall call for nominations during the penultimate GMM of the spring semester.
6.1.2.1.1.
Only full members may nominate a candidate.
6.1.2.1.1.1.
Only full members may second a nomination.
6.1.2.1.1.2.
Members may not nominate themselves.
6.1.2.1.2.
A candidate may verbally accept their nomination at the time or may accept their nomination in advance via written correspondence.
6.1.2.1.2.1.
No candidate may accept nominations for more than one Office position.
6.1.2.1.3.
The President may call again for nominations at the following OM.
6.1.2.2.
Endorsements – The Secretary shall post an endorsement (i.e. signature sheet) for each nominee.
6.1.2.2.1.
Each nominee’s endorsement shall be deemed complete only after it has been signed by exactly thirty percent of the active full membership.
6.1.2.2.1.1.
When more than three nominees exist for a single position, the aforementioned thirty percent condition shall be reduced to an exact proportion of the number of nominees (e.g. twenty-five percent when four nominees exist).
6.1.2.2.1.2.
No signature shall be counted toward the endorsement of more than one nominee per position.
6.1.2.3.
Balloting – The ballot committee shall publish the ballot of candidates after verifying their individual eligibilities, according to 3.3 and 6.1.1, and their individual endorsements, according to
6.1.2.2.1.
6.1.2.4.
Speeches – Candidates on the final ballot shall present their campaign speeches during the new business segment of the final
GMM of the spring semester.
6.1.2.4.1.
Each candidate shall be allotted five minutes for their speech.
6.1.2.4.2.
Each candidate shall be allotted ten minutes for entertaining questions from the general membership.
6.1.2.4.2.1.
Candidates for President or Chief of Operations shall be granted as much time as necessary to exhaust all questions from the general membership.
6.1.2.4.3.
Each candidate shall submit to the election committee chairperson a transcript of their speech for immediate posting at HQ following the GMM.
6.1.2.5.
Voting – Anonymous voting shall be conducted via online (i.e. internet) poll seven days after the final GMM of the spring semester.
6.1.2.5.1.
Eligibility to vote shall be determined by Article 2.
6.1.2.5.2.
The online poll shall remain open for a twenty four hour period from 0000 hours until 2359 hours.

6.1.2.5.3.
The online polling software must satisfy the following conditions.
6.1.2.5.3.1.
The ballot of candidates must be presented in an unbiased manner.
6.1.2.5.3.2.
The ballot must allow for write-in votes.
6.1.2.5.3.3.
The ballot must allow for abstention: a vote for none of the candidates for a particular position appearing on the official ballot issued by the ballot committee.
6.1.2.5.3.4.
Voters must be limited to one vote per position.
6.1.2.5.3.5.
Voters’ identities must be concealed from the election committee.
6.1.2.5.3.6.
The final tally of votes must be available for verification by the election committee immediately following the close of the online poll.
6.1.2.5.3.6.1.
A tied vote must be revealed by the software only as such and not as a tally.
6.1.2.5.4.
In the event of a tied vote wherein two or more candidates obtained the same, greatest number of votes, the election committee shall call a re-vote between/among only those candidates engaged in the tie.
6.1.2.5.4.1.
Before calling a re-vote, the election committee shall conduct, within seven days after the election yielding the tied vote, an open meeting during which those candidates engaged in the tie shall entertain additional questions from the general membership.
6.1.2.5.4.2.
The re-vote for the tied position shall proceed according to 6.1.2.5.2.
6.1.2.5.4.3.
If the re-vote also yields a tie, the election committee shall consign the position to Office for officer appointment according to 6.3.
6.1.2.6.
Outcome – The election committee shall post the final tally of votes at HQ and submit a copy to the Secretary.
6.1.2.6.1.
If abstention (a vote for none of the candidates) obtains the majority of votes for a particular position, regardless of the number of candidates appearing on the final tally of votes, the position shall be deemed vacant after the point of time specified by 6.1.2.7 and shall be filled by the Office elect in accordance with 6.3 after the point of time specified by
6.1.2.7 [e.g. an unopposed candidate (the only candidate appearing on the final tally of votes) must obtain a majority of votes to become the officer elect].
6.1.2.6.1.1.
A write-in vote for a candidate deemed ineligible according to 5.1.2.2.1 shall be counted as an abstention (i.e. a write-in vote for anyone other than
an eligible candidate amounts to a vote for none of the eligible candidates).
6.1.2.6.2.
An officer elect resulting from write-in votes must still fulfill the provisions of 3.3 and 6.1.1, otherwise the position shall be deemed vacant after the point of time specified by 6.1.2.7 and shall only be filled in accordance with 6.3.
6.1.2.6.2.1.
An officer elect resulting from write-in votes reserves the liberty to decline the position. Should this occur, the position shall be deemed vacant after the point of time specified by 6.1.2.7 and shall only be filled in accordance with 6.3.
6.1.2.7.
Installation – Officers elect shall officially take office at 0000 hours following the university’s spring semester commencement.
6.1.2.7.1.
Officers elect shall be informally inaugurated at SBVAC’s installation dinner by reciting the oath, “I, ____, witnessed by the general members of the Stony Brook Volunteer
Ambulance Corps, hereby swear to uphold, at all times, the
By-Laws and SOP of the Stony Brook Volunteer
Ambulance Corps, to fulfill my duties as an officer, and to act in the best interest of the company.”
6.2.
Vacancies in Office
6.2.1.
Vacancy of the President’s Office – In the event of an extended absence or resignation of the entire President’s Office, the Chief’s
Office shall temporarily assume the responsibilities and authorities of the President’s Office until the vacancies have been filled.
6.2.1.1.
Any officer appointments, except for that of President, resulting from this circumstance remain subject to ratification according to
6.3.4.1.
6.2.1.2.
The Chief may permanently assume either position of the
President’s Office, whereupon the standing 1 st Assistant Chief shall automatically assume Chief of Operations.
6.2.2.
Vacancy of the Chief’s Office – In the event of an extended absence or resignation of the entire Chief’s Office, the President’s Office shall temporarily assume the responsibilities and authorities of the Chief’s
Office until the vacancies have been filled.
6.2.2.1.
Any officer appointments, except for that of Chief of Operations, resulting from this circumstance remain subject to ratification according to 6.3.4.1.
6.2.3.
Vacancy of Individual Office Positions.
6.2.3.1.
President – In the event of the President’s extended absence or resignation, the Vice President shall automatically assume
President without need for ratification by Office or the general

membership. The new President shall then appoint a replacement Vice President according to 6.3.
6.2.3.2.
Chief of Operations – In the event of the Chief’s extended absence or resignation, the 1 st Assistant Chief shall automatically assume Chief of Operations without need for ratification by
Office or the general membership. The new Chief of Operations shall then appoint a replacement 1 st Assistant Chief according to
6.3.
6.2.3.3.
Chief of Operations with 1 st Assistant Chief – In the event of a concurrent extended absence or resignation of both the Chief of
Operations and the 1 st Assistant Chief, the 2 nd Assistant Chief shall assume Chief of Operations without need for ratification by
Office or the general membership. The new Chief of Operations shall then appoint a replacement 1 st Assistant Chief and 2 nd
Assistant Chief via 6.3.
6.2.4.
Appointment of Officers – A vacancy in Office occurring outside of the annual officer elections, including any resulting from proceedings of
6.2, shall be addressed through the officer appointment procedure of
6.3.
6.2.4.1.
Province – The appointment for an Executive Board vacancy shall be made by the President; the appointment for an
Operations Board vacancy shall be made by the Chief of
Operations.
6.2.4.2.
Time Limit – An officer appointment procedure for a vacancy in
Office must take place during the same semester in which the vacancy occurred.
6.2.4.2.1.
Should a vacancy occur during an inter- or summer session, the appropriate ranking officer (i.e. President or
Chief of Operations) may opt to postpone the officer appointment procedure until the following regular semester in order to maximize the number of candidates for appointment and attendees of the officer appointment meeting.
6.2.4.3.
Deferment – The President or Chief of Operations shall reserve the option to leave vacant a position in their respective board in case all replacement candidates are found unsatisfactory in the course of the officer appointment meeting.
6.2.4.3.1.
No deferment shall be sustained longer than one semester, excluding inter- and summer sessions.
6.2.4.3.2.
The President or Chief of Operations shall ensure that any responsibilities of a vacancy in their respective board are fulfilled throughout a deferment.
6.3.
Officer Appointment Procedure
6.3.1.
Proclamation – The President shall make known to the general membership the state of any vacancies in Office and shall call for candidates no less than five days before an officer appointment meeting.
6.3.2.
Declaration – Any eligible member shall make known their candidacy for appointment by submitting a written declaration to the Secretary before or during the officer appointment meeting.
6.3.2.1.
Candidates must satisfy 3.3 and 6.1.1 by the time of the officer appointment meeting.
6.3.2.2.
Candidates may vie for more than one vacancy but shall only be appointed to one officer position.
6.3.3.
Officer Appointment Meeting – An officer appointment meeting shall be chaired by the President or Vice President and shall be open to all general members of SBVAC.
6.3.3.1.
Attendance – Attendance by a quorum of Office is required to conduct an officer appointment meeting.
6.3.3.2.
Procedure – An officer appointment meeting shall follow this sequence for each individual vacancy: 1) Candidates’ speeches;
2) Questions for candidates; 3) General discussion; 5) Executive session; 4) Decision for appointment or deferment.
6.3.3.2.1.
Only one vacancy shall be addressed at a time, in order of descending rank.
6.3.3.2.2.
Candidates’ speeches shall be limited to five minutes.
6.3.3.2.3.
An absent candidate may have their speech presented by proxy or by the Secretary.
6.3.3.2.4.
Candidates shall go on recess during the general discussion.
6.3.3.2.5.
The appointment or deferment decision shall take immediate effect but shall remain subject to ratification by the general membership.
6.3.4.
Ratification – The outcome of the officer appointment procedure (i.e. appointment or deferment) for each individual vacancy must be ratified during the next GMM.
6.3.4.1.
Ratification shall be performed by opening a motion to vote in accordance with 4.1.1.6, following the Secretary’s officer report.
6.3.4.1.1.
This ratification vote must be conducted by confidential vote (i.e. written vote).
6.3.4.1.1.1.
The confidential votes shall be counted by one officer, one general member, and one probationary member.
6.3.4.1.1.1.1.
No appointee for any vacancy may participate in the counting of confidential votes.

6.3.4.1.1.2.
The confidential votes shall be stored by the
Secretary until the following GMM in case an audit is requested.
6.3.5.
Should ratification for an appointee fail to pass, the appointee shall vacate their position at 2359 hours of the same day and the officer appointment procedure, 3.5, for the unfilled vacancy shall immediately start afresh.
6.4.
Impeachment of an Officer – Any officer may be deposed for reasons including, but not limited to those stated in 7.2.
6.4.1.
Authority – Any general member may request an impeachment hearing by submitting to the Secretary a written petition identifying the specific infraction(s), the plaintiff(s), and the defending officer(s).
6.4.1.1.
The written petition must be accompanied by an endorsement bearing the signatures of either 1) at least fifty percent of the active full membership, or 2) at least fifty percent of the current officers.
6.4.1.2.
The petition shall be submitted to the President’s Office if the
Secretary is the subject of the impeachment.
6.4.2.
Initiation of an Impeachment Hearing – The Secretary shall verify each signature on the endorsement and then call an impeachment hearing to take place within fifteen business days.
6.4.2.1.
The defending officer(s) may shirk an impeachment hearing only by resigning their office.
6.4.3.
Impeachment Hearing – An impeachment hearing shall be open to all general members of SBVAC.
6.4.3.1.
Attendance – Attendance by quorum is required to conduct an impeachment hearing.
6.4.3.2.
Chairperson – The President shall chair an impeachment hearing.
6.4.3.2.1.
Should any conflict of interest for the President exist, the plaintiff(s) and the defending officer(s) shall cooperatively appoint another chairperson.
6.4.3.3.
Counsel – Only an active or lifetime member of SBVAC may serve as counselor for the plaintiff(s) or defending officer(s).
6.4.3.4.
Procedure – An impeachment hearing shall follow this sequence:
1) Plaintiff(s)’ opening statement; 2) Defending officer(s)’ opening statement; 3) Presentation of evidence; (4) Cross examination; 5) Plaintiff(s)’ closing argument; 6) Defending officer(s)’ closing argument; 7) Thirty-minutes of general discussion; 8) Confidential vote
6.4.3.4.1.
Modifications to this procedure must be approved by both parties.
6.4.3.4.2.
Cross examination shall occur after each item of evidence is presented.
6.4.3.4.3.
Community, adjunct associate, or adjunct honorary members may not provide direct nor circumstantial evidence (i.e. eyewitness account or testimony).
6.4.3.4.4.
Each party shall be limited to five minutes apiece while addressing questions during the general discussion.
6.4.3.4.5.
The confidential vote shall follow 4.1.1.6.
6.4.3.4.5.1.
The confidential vote shall be conducted by individuals cooperatively appointed by both parties.
6.4.3.4.5.2.
A quorum vote is required to effect an impeachment.
6.4.3.5.
No Double Jeopardy – No impeachment hearing shall address the same specific infraction(s) against the same defending officer(s) as any previous impeachment hearing.
6.4.3.6.
No Jurisdiction – The outcome of any SBVAC impeachment hearing bears no degree of legal legitimacy.
7.
Conduct
7.1.
Commendations – An act of distinction, merit, eminence, or excellence toward SBVAC may be cited with a letter of commendation.
7.1.1.
Authority – Letters of commendation shall be issued by the President’s or Chief’s Office or by quorum vote by Office.
7.2.
Infractions – Infractions against these By-Laws, the SOP, or directives of
Office (e.g. dereliction of duty, insubordination, conduct detrimental to
SBVAC, misconduct during alarms, shifts, or trainings) shall bear just and proportionate penalties.
7.2.1.
Letter of Disciplinary Action – Whenever an infraction warrants disciplinary action, the instance shall be documented with a letter of disciplinary action to be permanently filed in the offending member’s personnel record.
7.2.1.1.
The letter of disciplinary action shall delineate the infraction and the ensuing disciplinary action.
7.2.2.
Letter of Warning – Every third infraction warranting disciplinary action by the same member shall be documented with a letter of warning to be permanently filed in the offending member’s personnel record.
7.2.2.1.
The letter of warning shall delineate the third infraction and the ensuing disciplinary action in addition to the two preceding letters of disciplinary action.
7.2.2.2.
Any member issued a letter of warning shall undergo six months’ probation beginning on the date of issue.
7.2.2.2.1.
Any member issued a letter of disciplinary action while on probation from a letter of warning shall be dismissed from membership.
7.2.2.3.
Any second letter of warning for the same member shall result in permanent dismissal from membership.

7.2.2.3.1.
Dismissal resulting from a second letter of warning may be appealed in accordance with 5.2.
7.2.3.
Suspension – The President’s or Chief’s Office may suspend a member from any or all aspects of active service, with immediate effect, for reasons including, but not limited to, those in 7.2.
7.2.3.1.
A suspension may be conveyed verbally when an immediate, situational necessity exists.
7.2.3.1.1.
A suspension may be issued by proxy via the Treasurer,
Secretary, Captain, or Lieutenant.
7.2.3.2.
A suspension must be documented by the sanctioning officer, and a copy must be provided to the suspended member, within five days of the incident warranting the suspension.
7.2.3.3.
A suspension from active service shall not exceed sixty days.
7.2.3.3.1.
A suspended member deemed unfit to return to active service after sixty days may be dismissed from membership by a quorum vote by Office.
7.2.3.4.
Only the Chief’s Office may suspend a member’s SBVAC capacity (i.e. CC, EVO, or ATT).
7.2.3.4.1.
A suspension of SBVAC capacity shall not exceed fourteen days except for the purpose of completing remedial training.
7.2.3.4.2.
A suspension of SBVAC capacity may be escalated to a complete revocation of SBVAC capacity.
7.2.3.5.
The suspended member may attend an OM to discuss the cause for, and the duration of, their suspension as well as any assigned remedial training.
7.2.4.
Dismissal – A quorum vote by Office may dismiss a member from
SBVAC entirely for reasons including, but not limited to, those in 7.2.
7.2.4.1.
Any member dismissed in this manner shall sustain the privilege of appeal through the grievance process.
7.3.
Discrimination and Harassment Prevention
7.3.1.
Policy – In compliance with the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII),
Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, The Rehabilitation Act of 1973, The Age Discrimination in Employment Act, and the
Americans with Disabilities Act, the Stony Brook Volunteer
Ambulance Corps prohibits unlawful discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, heritage, sex, age, religion, nationality, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, or status as a military veteran in the implementation of any of its policies, procedures, or practices regarding the terms, conditions, and privileges of membership, except where superseded by EMS-specific laws of local, state, or federal agencies. This policy affects all practices including, but not limited to, recruitment, benefits, compensation, training, and terminations.
7.3.2.
Definition of Discrimination – Any act, failure to act, or reprisal based in whole or in part on a individual’s race, heritage, sex, age, color, religion, nationality, sexual orientation, or status as a military veteran that adversely affects privileges, benefits, or working conditions and results in disparate treatment, or has a disparate impact on members or applicants.
7.3.3.
Definition of Harassment – Any attempt by one individual to assert abusive, unwarranted power over another through comment, conduct, or gesture directed toward an individual or group of individuals which is insulting, intimidating, humiliating, malicious, degrading, or offensive.
7.3.4.
Responsibilities – SBVAC is responsible for acts of discrimination or harassment when it knows, or should have known, of the conduct.
7.3.4.1.
Any member shall inform an officer of any alleged acts and/or complaints of discrimination or harassment.
7.3.4.2.
Office shall immediately investigate any alleged acts and/or complaints while protecting, to the fullest extent possible, the confidentiality of all parties involved.
7.3.4.3.
Office shall take appropriate action against any parties found responsible for discrimination or harassment.
8.
Amendment of By-Laws.
8.1.
Procedure – A President’s By-Laws amendment must be reviewed and ratified by the voting membership in order to take effect.
8.1.1.
The Secretary shall post a By-Laws amendment at HQ in a manner and location that ensures accessibility for review by the general membership.
8.1.1.1.
The content of the amendment may not be altered once it has been posted.
8.1.1.1.1.
Only semantic adjustment for the purpose of clarification is permitted.
8.1.2.
A motion to ratify a By-Laws amendment shall be called no sooner than five business days after the amendment has been posted.
8.1.2.1.
Attendance by quorum is required to motion to ratify.
8.1.2.1.1.
Ratification requires a quorum vote.
8.1.3.
A By-Laws amendment shall take immediate effect upon ratification.
8.2.
By-Laws Amendments During Summer Sessions
8.2.1.
Restrictions – Any By-Laws amendment reviewed and ratified during a summer session must be reviewed and ratified again, in accordance with 8.1, during the following fall semester.