Each ACEP chapter adopts its own chapter bylaws which can be as specific and individualized as needed, but must be in compliance with the ACEP Bylaws. The ACEP Board of Directors approved a set of model chapter bylaws for chapters to use when revising their bylaws. The most recent model was approved by the Board in October 2023. It incorporates a number of points designed to reduce both chapter and national ACEP liability and to assist chapters in complying with the ACEP Bylaws.
Download the Model Chapter Bylaws (2023) (Word)
Chapter Bylaws Guidance Documents (2023) (PDF) include Model Chapter Bylaws as well as the Bylaws Committee Chapter Review Process.
When chapters file their 990 or 990 EZ, they are required to report any changes in chapter bylaws. For this reason, it is important that each chapter provides an accurate copy of its bylaws to the Bylaws Committee and receives approval for all revisions to ensure compliance.
Some important points to remember are:
- Every four years, the ACEP Bylaws Committee performs a routine comprehensive review of a chapter’s bylaws. A chapter may also propose amendments to its bylaws at any time. However, since approval of any changes must be processed through the ACEP Bylaws Committee prior to actual implementation, chapters are strongly encouraged to contact the Bylaws Committee prior to beginning the amendment process.
- A chapter liaison must be appointed to work with the Bylaws Committee for the duration of the review process and on proposed amendments.
- Upon conclusion of the initial review, if the amendments are preliminarily approved by the Committee, the proposed changes should be distributed to the entire chapter membership at least 30 days prior to when a vote will take place.
- Within 30 days of the vote, chapter leadership must inform the Bylaws Committee of the outcome.
- Chapter bylaws and proposed amendments must be submitted to the College in a designated electronic format to the Bylaws Committee. The entire text of the chapter’s bylaws must be submitted to the College. When amendments are proposed, added text shall be denoted in the body of the document by a single underline beneath the added text, and deleted text shall be denoted in the body of the document by a single strike through the deleted text. The date of adoption by the chapter must be specified within the text of the bylaws. Staff will return the chapter’s bylaws to the chapter if the document is not submitted in the format designated by the College.
Need Assistance?
The updated Chapter Bylaws Review Process (PDF) is a more proactive and collaborative approach for both Bylaws Committee members, Chapter Leaders, and Chapter Executives. ACEP chapters needing assistance with their bylaws are encouraged to contact the Bylaws Committee.
