Resolutions - Frequently Asked Questions
The authority for National PTA’s legislative activity is in the third PTA Purpose: “To secure adequate laws for the care and protection of children and youth.” Local, council, district/region, and state PTAs can join National PTA in speaking out for federal legislation that promotes the welfare of children and youth.
National PTA engages in legislative activity to the extent permitted by Section 501(c)(3)(h) of the Internal Revenue Code. Acting within this limitation, National PTA, through its legislative program, makes its legislative voice effectively heard with respect to proposed and enacted laws and regulations that pertain to the health, education, and welfare of the children and youth of the United States. The National PTA
Legislative Program is based on legislative directives, legislative policy statements, position statements, and resolutions of the organization.
Following are some frequently asked questions about resolutions.
What is a convention resolution?
A convention resolution is an original main motion that is brought forward at convention because of its importance, length, or complexity, and is submitted in writing.
Why submit a convention resolution?
National PTA convention resolutions seek to address problems, situations, or concerns that affect children and youth nationwide and, therefore, require nationwide action for solution. As such, convention resolutions are calls for action by National PTA or its constituent bodies (state, district, council, or local PTAs).
Who can submit a convention resolution?
Local, council, district/region, or state PTAs, the National PTA Board of Directors, or committees may submit convention resolutions. Convention resolution criteria are the same for all PTA bodies.
Who votes on a convention resolution?
Delegates at the Annual National PTA Convention debate and vote on resolutions submitted by local, council, organized district/region, or state PTAs, or by the National PTA Board of Directors.
How is a convention resolution written/formatted?
A convention resolution usually consists of two main parts:
• Whereas: The preamble portion of the convention resolution consisting of a statement(s) providing information on the convention resolution, reasons for the convention resolution, and why it should be adopted.
• Resolved: The main motion. The Resolved statements constitute the request for action and express the opinion or will of the group.
What criteria must each convention resolution meet?
Each convention resolution submitted to National PTA is subject to consideration by the Resolutions Committee.
What are the other requirements?
All convention resolutions must be received in the National PTA office by December 15. (In the event that the 15th falls on the weekend, the convention resolution will be accepted on the next business day. Convention resolutions received after the deadline will not be presented at that year’s national convention). Facsimile (faxes) or electronic mail (e-mail) will not be accepted.
A convention resolution may be rejected in accordance to the District of Columbia Code, Subsection 29-301.16, if it is deemed to be not in the best interest of the organization.
For additional information or questions about submitting a convention resolution, please contact National PTA’s Information Services Department.
