Can you amend bylaws to change a fixed member number to a percentage
Asked November 2026 · Answered by the AI Parliamentarian
Can I make a motion to amend the bylaws so that instead of a fixed number of members, it uses a percentage?
Amending Bylaws: Changing Fixed Number to Percentage
Yes, you can make such a motion. This is a motion to amend the bylaws, which is a main motion subject to your organization's specific amendment procedures.
The Motion Itself
Your proposed amendment is in order — changing a fixed number of members to a percentage is a legitimate and common bylaw amendment. It is germane to the existing provision since it modifies the same subject matter (membership count or threshold).
Procedural Requirements
Before making the motion, check your current bylaws for amendment provisions, which typically require:
| Requirement | Typical Rule | Your Bylaws May Vary |
|---|---|---|
| Previous Notice | Usually required | Check your bylaws |
| Vote Threshold | Commonly 2/3 vote | May require more |
| Timing | Often at specific meetings | Per your bylaws |
⚠️ RONR §57 governs bylaw amendments. However, your organization's own bylaws control — always check them first.
How to Make the Motion
- Obtain the floor — address the chair
- State the motion — "I move to amend Article [X], Section [X] of the bylaws by striking '[fixed number] members' and inserting '[X]% of the membership'"
- A second is obtained
- Debate and vote per your bylaws' requirements
Key Considerations
- What percentage? You'll need a specific figure ready (e.g., "a majority of the membership" or "75%").
- Of what total? Be precise — percentage of active members, voting members, or total membership?
- Notice requirement — Many bylaws require written notice days or weeks in advance.