SBCLP Newsletter Article

There is a dangerous new precedent being set in our convention today. It seems simple and reasonable enough, and even good and useful, but the fine print says otherwise. I am speaking about the proposed changes to Bylaw 12. While there is a great deal of merit in making standing committees out of Platform, Program and Bylaws, it is very dangerous to mandate that the standing committees be appointed entirely by the Executive Committee, with no regional contribution. This makes true representation very difficult, and reduces the ability of individual regions to have valuable input in the process. While the opening of Bylaws committee at the annual convention is a great step forward, closing participation of the regions in the creation of all committees is a monumental step backward.

We are striving for more freedom and individual autonomy, and will not achieve that goal if we have less input in our Party's direction and functions, which are an integral process of these committees. I see great value in editing Bylaw 12, but would like to propose an alternative to the choice we are presented with.

Bylaw 12: Committees

Section 2.

For each convention, the delegates of said convention shall elect 10 members of county central committees to annual standing committees to recommend changes in the Bylaws and Convention Rules, Platform, and Program for the following year. The Bylaws, Platform, and Program committees shall each adopt and submit a Report for Publication on the LPC website not less than 60 days before the next convention.

Section 3.

Each convention delegate may join one of the Bylaws Committee, Platform Committee, or Program Committee for each convention, the choice being declared upon election as a delegate during regional delegate selection processes. Each committee shall meet at the convention to consider amendments to its report before presenting changes to the delegates for a vote.

Bylaw Change Contains Pitfalls

By Laura Lee - Treasurer of the Libertarian Party of San Bernardino County