Bylaws are the legally binding rules that outline how the oversight activities of the association will be conducted. Specifically, the bylaws direct the board of directors in their work to govern the association, guiding the board’s actions and decisions. They help prevent or resolve conflict and disagreements. They can protect the organization from potential problems by clearly outlining rules around authority levels, rights, and expectations. While bylaws are a detailed and immediate source of regulations, they must follow federal and state laws and comply and work in conjunction with the association’s Articles of Incorporation.

To that end, the NABA National Governance & Ethics Committee has been working with HQ staff and legal counsel to draft revised National Bylaws to align with other organizational documents, streamline for best practices, and address governance issues raised by multiple Board Committees. The proposed changes were deliberated and socialized with NABA’s extended volunteer leadership to ensure a rich, balanced, inclusive process.

The NABA National Board of Directors officially approved and adopted the proposed changes by unanimous vote on December 21, 2021