ARTICLE VII: STANDING COMMITTEES
Section 1: Purpose and Function
The function of the standing committees is to provide the Senate with specific, responsible working bodies which shall ensure a planned and coordinated direction for the business of the Senate. Each committee's guidelines will have the following categories: “Purpose,” “Responsibilities,” “Composition,” and “Reports To.”
Section 2: Standing Committees
Outreach Committee
Staff Relations Committee
Executive Committee
Election and Credentials Committee
Staff Morale Committee
Section 3: Procedure for Election of Committees
At the annual December meeting, or when a permanent vacancy occurs, the Election and Credentials Committee shall report all vacancies in standing committee membership and shall submit to the Senate the name of a Senate member or staff member for nomination for each vacancy. Alternate names may also be submitted to fill vacancies which may occur between regular Senate meetings.
After nominations by the Election and Credentials Committee have been reported to the full Senate, the Senate President shall call for nominations from the floor before nominations are closed and voting commences. A majority vote shall be required to elect members to a committee. Alternates approved by the Senate shall automatically fill a permanent vacancy.
Each Senate member must serve on at least two standing committees.
Each standing committee shall consist of a minimum of three Senate members.
Section 4: Procedures for Election of Standing Committee Officers
The Vice President of the Senate shall call a meeting of each standing committee following the first regular December Senate meeting.
Only members of the standing committee who are members of the Senate are eligible for nomination for Chairperson of the standing committee. The Chairperson shall be elected by members of the standing committee.
A majority vote of the standing committee shall constitute an election.
Duties of a Standing Committee Chairperson shall be:
Call and preside at all meetings;
Determine the agenda for all meetings;
Ensure that conduct of the committee is governed by procedures contained in Robert's Rules of Order, Newly Revised;