Associated Students of MSU-Northern

THE ASSOCIATED STUDENTS OF
MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY-NORTHERN BYLAWS

	Division I		ASMSU-N Membership
	Division II		Senate Membership
	Division III		Senate Qualifications
	Division IV		Clubs, Organizations, and Groups
	DivisionV		Senate Meetings
	Division VI		Election Commission
	Division VII		Committees and Councils
	Division VIII		Finance
	Division IX		Elections
	Division X		Homecoming
	Division XI		Summer Interim Senate
	Division XII		Amendments

	Position		President
	Descriptions:		Vice-President
			Business Manager
			Senators
			Media Coordinator
			Program Council
			Sustainability Council
			Administrative Assistant

DIVISION I. ASMSU-N MEMBERSHIP

ARTICLE I. Active Membership

Section 1. All students in accordance with Article II, of the Associated Students Constitution shall have active membership.

Section 2. Active membership shall allow a student the rights and privileges of The Associated Students Constitution and Bylaws as a student of Montana State University-Northern.

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DIVISION II. SENATE MEMBERSHIP

ARTICLE I. Composition

Section 1. The President, Vice-President, and Business Manager of the Associated Students shall serve as officers of the Senate.

Section 2. The eleven (11) voting Senators and three (3) voting Coordinators shall be elected as follows: Nine (9) senators of any major, class status, and are active members of ASMSU-N as defined in the Constitution and one (1) Media Coordinator to be elected in the Spring General Election and two (2) Freshman Senators and one (1) Program Council Coordinator to be elected in the Fall General Election.

ARTICLE II. Installation

Section 1. At a designated meeting, the new Senate shall be sworn in.

Section 2. Any Justice of the Judiciary Council shall swear in the Senate. In the absence of a justice the Vice-President of the Senate may swear senate members in to office.

Section 3. Oath of Office: "I ___(name)____, as ___(office)___, of the Associated Students of Montana State University - Northern, affirm that I shall fulfill to the best of my abilities all the duties assigned to me under the Constitution and Bylaws of the Associated Students of Montana State University - Northern."

Section 4. Those delegates elected in the Fall General Election shall be installed at the first Senate meeting following the election.

ARTICLE III. Position Descriptions

Section 1. In addition to the position responsibilities identified for positions in the ASMSU-N Constitution and By-Laws, a “Position Description” appendix should be attached to the By-Laws in order to provide a more detailed guideline on the role of each position within the Associated Students of Montana State University-Northern. The purpose of maintaining these more detailed descriptions is to provide newly chosen members with directional ideas for what they should be doing and what ideas they should continue to build on. These documents are meant to be fluid guidelines that should be continually reviewed and updated through a majority senate vote.

ARTICLE IV. Impeachment

Section 1. Any member of the Senate may be impeached. Registration of the petition to be valid must specify the name of the person to be impeached with a short narrative and presented to a senate member. It is that senate member’s responsibility to present the petition to the senate body at the next regular meeting. Signature of 25% of the eligible members is required. Judicial council will validate the authenticity of member signatures.

Section 2. The Judicial Council shall try the case in accordance to Article VII. of the Associated Students of Montana State University - Northern Constitution.

Section 3. The member being impeached may submit evidence in their defense.

Section 4. If judged guilty by the Judicial Council in impeachment proceedings, the impeached member's term of office shall terminate immediately. If a stipend position is terminated then the stipend must be prorated as of that date.

Section 5. Grounds for impeachment

(a) Any member failing to fulfill their duties as directed by the ASMSU-N Constitution and Bylaws.

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DIVISION III. SENATE QUALIFICATIONS

ARTICLE I. The President

Section 1. Qualifications. (Article III, Section 2-4 Constitution)

Section 2. Duties.

To be official representative of the Associated Students of Montana State University-Northern.
To facilitate and preside as chairperson of Student Senate meetings and special meetings of ASMSUN.
To serve as a non-voting, ex-officio member on all committees, commissions, and councils.
To appoint all committee chairpersons and other positions as enumerated in the Bylaws and Constitution.
To hire and be responsible for an Administrative Assistant and any additional Associated Student employees.
To represent or appoint representation for ASMSUN Students at Montana Associated Students Meetings and at Montana Coalition meetings.
To maintain rapport with the students of Montana State University-Northern.
To attend all Board of Regents meetings, or designate a Senate member to attend.
To maintain rapport with other University System Student Presidents.
To arrange and attend regular informal meetings with the Chancellor of Montana State University-Northern.
To serve as the Student Grievance Officer.
And all other duties as directed by the Senate.
Serve designated Office hours.
Keep up Communications with the administration, faculty, staff, clubs, and students at MSU-Northern.
Keep student senate and students informed.
Keep Senate positions filled.
Golden-N, Appoint Election Commissioner
Graduation banquet
Serve 3 hours/week office hours.
Provide a list of campus committees and the number of students required to the Campus Affairs committee.
Appoint Student Senators to two (2) Standing committees or at the President’s discretion, other appropriate campus committees when standing committees have no remaining vacancies.
Three (3) unexcused absences are cause for impeachment removal from the Senate .

ARTICLE II. The Vice-President

Section 1. Qualifications. (Article III, Section 2-4 Constitution)

Section 2. Duties

To act on behalf of the President in their absence.
To serve as a non-voting, ex-officio member of all boards and committees.
To assist the President in every possible, practical manner.
To serve as or appoint a parliamentarian.
Act as committee whip to oversee Student Senate committees and to make recommendations to committee chairpersons and the ASMSUN President about appointments and removal of the committee members.
To Serve as the Inter-Organizational Council (IOC) Chairperson.
To carry out any other duties specifically delegated by the President.
Serve designated office hours.
Attend all meetings unless excused*.
To provide the media council coordinator with an updated list of registered clubs and organizations for inclusion on the Campus calendar.
Keep up Communications with faculty, staff, and Campus Clubs.
To give a detailed IOC report at every Senate meeting.
Serve 3 hours/week office hours.

*Three (3) unexcused absences are cause for impeachment removal from the Senate.

ARTICLE III. Business Manager

Section 1. Qualifications. (Article III, Section 2-4 Constitution)

Section 2. Duties.

To prepare an annual Budget Review for submission to the Senate.
To report expenditures and account balances at Student Senate Meetings.
To carry out all fiscal matters of the Associated Students.
To work with the Montana State University-Northern Business Office.
To serve as a member of the Finance/Vendings Committee.
To conduct annual Budget Review of organizations on the ASMSU-N Budget.
To carry out any other duties specifically delegated by the President.
To be accountable to the ASMSU-N Fiscal Policy.
Give a detailed monthly Detailed Budget Reports (Handouts).
Attend all Meetings unless excused*
Serve designated office hours.
Hold a Budget meeting for the following year on the first week of March.
Shall review vending machine contracts yearly, with the MSU-Northern Comptroller at the start of the Fall Semester. Then provide a written report to the student senate.
Supply each organization with monthly financial reports.
Maintain and Keep up to date a binder including EVERY transaction that has taken place that year.
Serve 3 hours/week office hours.

*Three (3) unexcused absences are cause for impeachment removal from the Senate.

ARTICLE IV. Senators

Section 1. Qualifications. (Article III, Section 6b Constitution)

Section 2. Duties.

To be accountable to their constituents.
To attend regular and special meetings of the Senate.
To be a member of at least two (2) standing committees or councils throughout the year.
To acquire a working knowledge of the ASMSU-N Constitution & Bylaws.
To acquire a working knowledge of the Board of Regents and Montana Associated Students’ by attending one BOR meeting during the academic year.
To carry out any other duties specifically delegated by the President.
Serve 2 hrs/week office hrs.
To serve as building Representative in accordance with ASMSUN Bylaws.
Attend School functions.
Take a positive leadership role and present a positive reflection on MSU-Northern.
Represent ALL Students of MSU-N.
Know the ASMSU-N Policies.
Acquire a general knowledge of Board of Regents, the Montana University System, and ASMSU-N.
Voice opinion and respect others for their opinions.
Recruit and encourage students to become involved.
Poll students for their opinions.
To carry out any other duties specifically delegated by the President.
Three (3) unexcused absences are cause for impeachment removal from the Senate.

Senators at Large will receive a $100 stipend per semester payable at the end of each semester after completing their above mentioned duties.

ARTICLE V. ASMSU-N Building Representatives

Section 1. Primary Goal

(a) To insure active communications between the MSU-Northern student body and the ASMSU-N Student Senate.

Section 2. Membership

(a) Members will consist of Vice-President, Business Manager, Council Coordinators and all ASMSU-N Senators.

Section 3. Duties

(a) The ASMSU-N student building representatives will be required to spend at least one hour per month in their respective buildings serving as a building representative (this time will count towards their office hours).

(b) When polling for information from MSU-Northern students, ASMSU-N members will poll their respective buildings and present the gathered information by the next ASMSU-N Student Senate meeting.

Section 4. Currently Represented Buildings

(a) Cowan Hall

(b) Hagener Science Center

(c) Brockman Center

(d) Mackenzie Hall

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DIVISION IV. CLUBS, ORGANIZATIONS, AND GROUPS

ARTICLE I. Organizational Responsibility

Section 1. Any constitution of an organization or club should be a clearly defined description of that organization's or club's goals and objectives. It must also include any rules or regulations that pertain to membership and holding office within that organization.

Section 2. Advisors may be selected from the administrative body, faculty, or staff of Montana State University-Northern. The club may select an off-campus advisor, however; at least one of the club's advisors must be an on-campus representative.

Section 3. Failure to complete an IOC registration (Article XI. Constitution) will result in the loss of formal recognition as an ASMSU-N Club. This will disqualify that organization from receiving any services from ASMSU-N including financial services.

Section 4. Every organization and club is responsible for picking up correspondence, financialreports, etc. from the IOC mailboxes on a weekly basis.

ARTICLE II. Student Senate Responsibility

Section 1. The Senate shall provide each recognized ASMSU-N organization with a mailbox located in the Senate offices.

Section 2. The Senate (Business Manager) shall supply each organization with monthly printouts of financial reports and other information pertaining to that organization's operations.

ARTICLE III. Advisors

Section 1. Montana State University-Northern Affiliated. It is preferred that all ASMSU-N club and organization advisors be affiliated with MSU-N.

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DIVISION V. SENATE MEETINGS

ARTICLE I. Procedures

Section 1. The Senate shall meet upon the call of the President.

Section 2. The President shall call a special meeting of the Senate upon presentation of a petition signed by 25% members of ASMSU-N.

Section 3. Senate meetings shall be held every Monday night during the academic year except during school holidays and finals' week.

Section 4. All meetings of the Senate shall be open to all members of ASMSU-N. At the discretion of a 2/3 vote of the Senate or at the call of the President, an executive session may be called.

Section 5. 2/3 of the regular members of the Senate shall constitute a quorum.

Section 6. All proceedings of the Senate shall be conducted in conformity with Robert’s Rules of Order Revised, and the ASMSU-N Constitution and Bylaws. In the case of a conflict, the Constitution and/or Bylaws shall rule.

Section 7. All voting records and minutes of the Senate shall be open to any member of the Associated Students.

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DIVISION VI. ELECTION COMMISSION

ARTICLE I. Duties

Section 1. The Election Commission shall consist of an election commissioner and at least 3 students not involved with the senate. The Election Commission shall hold, monitor, and arrange the Bi-yearly elections for the offices of ASMSU-N President, Vice-President, Business Manager, Senators, and Coordinators. The Election Commission shall over see the Homecoming election and be responsible for overseeing any special elections deemed necessary by the Senate.

Section 2. The Election Commission shall assemble all documents necessary for Senate candidates into a folder to be presented at the candidates meeting or other arranged time. These documents shall include: campaign rules signed by the candidate and an Election Commission member, ASMSU-N Constitution and Bylaws, schedule of events for the upcoming election and a job description for all positions open.

Section 3. The Election Commission shall validate candidate qualifications according to Article II and Article III of the Constitution.

Section 4. The ASMSU-N Student Senate Executive Board shall approve the Ballot prior to printing it to ensure all required issues are present on the Ballot.

Section 5. Mandatory Candidates Meeting

(a) The Election Commission shall schedule and oversee a Mandatory Candidates meeting. All Candidates must attend this meeting to be listed on the ballot.

(b) The Election Commission is responsible to notify all candidates of the date, time, and location of the mandatory candidates meeting.

(c) The Election Commission will explain all election rules. Candidates will be required to sign a document stating they understand and will comply with all election rules set forth in the ASMSU-N By-Laws. Candidates may begin campaigning when they have signed this document.

(d) The Election Commission holds discretionary power to disqualify any candidate who may violate election rules. Campaign rules will be available at the Student Union Information Desk.

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DIVISION VII. COUNCILS AND COMMITTIES

ARTICLE I. Committees

Section 1. The ASMSU-N Senate shall have standing committees and councils to review items and make recommendations to the Senate. The Senate shall have the final authority over all committee actions.

(a) All councils and committees shall be selected under the procedures of this section unless otherwise designated in the individual sections.

(b) All Senate members shall volunteer to be a member of standing councils and/or committees. If no one volunteers, then members shall be appointed to standing council and/or committees by the President or Vice-President during the second regular meeting of the Senate.

(c) All Senate members are responsible for actively recruiting students to serve as members in Senate councils and/or committees.

(d) All students wishing to be a member of a Senate Council or University Committee shall submit a Student Representative Application form to the ASMSU-N Student Senate. Recommendations from these applications will be made by Council Chairpersons to the ASMSU-N President for appointment.

(e) Council members shall schedule meetings, obtain any needed information, keep records of committee actions, confer with the President and Vice-President over important matters, excuse members from meetings, and file a regular report to the Senate at their regular meetings.

(f) Council chairpersons may obtain a faculty, staff, or administrative advisor for their committee if they so desire, or otherwise required. The chairperson shall have the authority to select the advisor with the approval of the Senate.

(g) If a committee member's seat is vacated, the seat will be filled according to (b) of this section.

(h) All committee proceedings shall be subject to Senate approval.

(i) Chairpersons will be responsible for conducting all committee proceedings in an orderly manner.

(j) Special committees may be established when the President or Senate deems necessary. The President with Senate approval shall appoint all special committees.

Section 2. Campus Affairs Committee

(a) The Campus Affairs Committee shall provide student representatives for all Senate and campus committees. A list of campus committees and the number of students needed for each shall be provided by the President. The Senate committees are described in the Bylaws and the number of students given.

(b) This committee shall be responsible to review applications for open Senate positions, and to report their findings and recommendations to the Senate.

(c) This committee shall consist of 1 Senate chairperson, at least 2 Senate members, and at least 2 non-Senate members.

Section 3. Constitutional Review Committee

(a) The Constitutional Review Committee shall meet to review and make recommendations concerning new and existing organizational constitutions. The committee shall review proposed changes to the ASMSU-N Constitution and Bylaws. All constitutions and bylaws must comply with the ASMSU-N and University guidelines.

(b) This committee shall consist of 1 Senate chairperson, at least 2 Senate members, and at least 2 non-Senate members.

(c) This committee may make corrections to the ASMSU-N Constitution and Bylaws with regard to typographical errors, grammatical errors, etc., without the express vote of the Student body or the Senate.

Section 4. Legislative Affairs Committee

(a) The committee shall lobby legislators, the governor, and others on legislative issues concerning the university, and on other issues as time and interest permit

(b) During Legislative years, all official business with the lobbyist shall be conducted by this Committee. This committee shall be responsible to bring to the Senate all bills having to do with the University System or Montana State University-Northern.

(c) A lobbyist may be hired and paid by the Associated Students of Montana State University - Northern during Legislative Sessions in Helena. An exception to this requirement is during special Sessions of the Montana Legislature when the President of the Associated Students of Montana State University - Northern will act as the Student Lobbyist.

(d) The committee shall gather information and poll students as necessary, to represent the opinions of the student body on these issues.

(e) The committee shall organize the lobby effort to be carried out by ASMSU-N. This shall include, but not be limited to, letter writing to legislators and organizing student trips to the Montana Legislature.

(f) The committee chairman shall be responsible to communicate the decision of the Senate on bills to the lobbyist in a timely manner so that the lobbyist will have time to prepare testimony in advance of the bill's hearing.

(g) The Chairman and members of this committee shall be responsible to communicate the decisions of the Senate on such bills to the local legislators as well as to the legislators who sit on the committee in which the bill is heard.

(h) During Legislative years, the chairman shall be required to sit on only this committee, but may sit on another if he/she so desires.

(i) The committee shall consist, at a minimum, of the ASMSU-N President, (ex-officio) 1 Senate Legislative Director, 4 Senate members, 4 non-Senate members, and 1 faculty or administrator as an advisor.

Section 5. Student Union Committee

(a) The Student Union Committee will assist the University with overseeing all activities within the Student Union Building.

(b) The committee shall recommend to the Senate where student funds should be used in the Student Union and recommend to the University Administration where non-student controlled money should be used for improvement in the Student Union.

(c) The committee shall make recommendations to the college administration on activities that should and should not be held in the Student Union.

(d) The committee shall consist of 1 Senate Chairperson, at least 2 Senate members, 2 on-campus students, 2 off-campus students, and the Director of the Student Union/Activities serving as an ex-officio member.

Section 6. Diversity Awareness

(a) The committee shall consist of one senate chairperson, at least 2 senate members, and three to five non-senate students with the MSU-N Multicultural coordinator as an ex-officio member.

(b) Focus: will include, but not limited to Cultural Diversity and Awareness, Gender Equity, Single Parents, Students with Disabilities, International Students, and Campus Fellowship

ARTICLE II. Councils

Section 1. Finance

(a) No council or committee shall spend more than Two-thousand Five-Hundred ($2500) on single function without Senate approval.

(b) All contracts must have the signature of the Council Coordinator and the advisor.

Section 2. Media Coordinator

(a) Duties

Attend all Radio Station Advisory Board Meetings and report at Senate Meetings.

The Council oversees the action of the 2 ASMSU-N media bodies (The student newspaper and yearbook).

The council is responsible to assemble all necessary information and publish the semester ASMSU-N calendar.

The Coordinator is responsible to conduct the annual interviews for the positions of the student newspaper editor and yearbook editor.

The Coordinator is responsible for public relations directed by the Student Senate.

The Coordinator is responsible to advertise any/every Student Senate event as advised by the Student Senate. Including but not limited to Town Hall meetings.

The Coordinator is responsible for a report to the student senate at the ASMSU-N Meetings.

To carry out any other duties specifically delegated by the President.

Keep an up to date binder containing Media council work done.

Serve 2 hours/week office hours.

Three (3) unexcused absences are cause for impeachment removal from the Senate.

Section 3. Program Council

(a) The Council shall consist of 1 elected coordinator, members selected by the coordinator, at least 2 Senate members and at least 1 ex-officio advisor to be selected by the Council with Senate approval.

(b) The coordinator shall be elected in the Fall General Election of each year and fill the position from Spring to Spring term. The newly elected coordinator shall take office at the designated Senate meeting. The coordinator shall preside over all meetings of the Program Council.

(c) The Council is responsible for planning and coordinating student activity programs, to include but not be limited to, dances, concerts, homecoming, and lectures. These programs must be designed to appeal to the diversified student body of the University.

(d) Program Council activity dates will be submitted each semester to the Media Coordinator for publication in the ASMSU-N Calendar.

(e) The coordinator is responsible for the submission of an annual budget for consideration to the ASMSU-N Finance/Vendings Committee each spring.

(f) The coordinator and Advisor shall sign contracts. All financial matters must be in accordance with ASMSU-N Fiscal Policy.

(g) To update the Program Council Policy as necessary, subject to organization and Senate approval.

Section 4. Inter-Organizational Council (IOC)

(a) Purpose.

1. To register student clubs and organizations.

2. To enhance communication between clubs.

3. To encourage involvement in ASMSU-N activities and events from clubs and organizations.

(b) The ASMSU-N Vice-President shall serve as the chairperson of IOC.

(c) Duties of Chairperson:

1. To distribute IOC registration forms at the beginning of Fall Semester to be completed by the clubs and organizations.

2. To keep an updated file of registered ASMSU-N clubs and organizations.

3. To make 2 copies of each IOC registration form and return one to the MSU-N Business Office and one to the ASMSU-N Business Manager.

4. To update the ASMSU-N Club Mailboxes each Semester or as needed.

5. To act as a liaison between the clubs and organizations and the Senate.

6. To oversee and assist in the expansion of MSU-N clubs and organizations.

7. To update the IOC Policy as necessary, subject to club, organization, and Senate approval.

(d) Membership.

1. All ASMSU-N registered clubs and organizations are members of IOC.

2. Each registered club or organization is required to have an IOC representative at meetings (See IOC Handbook).

(e) Meetings.

1. IOC shall meet on a regular basis and the meeting dates shall be printed on the Semester ASMSU-N Calendar and posted in the ASMSU-N offices.

(f) The IOC chair will submit a current list of registered Clubs and Organizations to the Media Coordinator each semester for inclusion on the Campus calendar.

Section 5. Sustainability Council

(a) The council shall consist of 1 elected coordinator, members selected by the coordinator, at least 2 senate members and at least 1 ex-officio advisor to be selected by the council with Senate approval.

(b) The coordinator shall be elected in the fall and serve term fall to fall.

(c) The coordinator shall preside over all meetings of the Sustainability council.

(d) The Council is responsible for planning and coordinating campus sustainability programs, to include but not limited to, recycling, new technologies, collection of recyclable items and sustainability awareness.

(e) Sustainability Council activity dates will be submitted each semester to the Media Council for publication in the ASMSU-N calendar.

(f) The coordinator will maintain a rapport with Recycle Hi-Line or any community groups endeavoring to maintain a greener planet.

(g) The coordinators responsible for the submission of an annual budget for consideration to the ASMSU-N Finance/Vendings committee each spring.

(h) The coordinator and Advisor shall sign contracts. All financial matters must be in accordance with the ASMSU-N Fiscal Policy.

(i) The coordinator is responsible for a weekly report to the student senate at the ASMSU-N meetings.

(j) Have weekly meetings with the Campus Recreation Activities Director and report at Senate meetings.

(k) To carry out any other duties specifically delegated by the President.

(l) Keep an up-to-date binder containing sustainability council work completed.

(m) Serve 2 hours/week office hours.

(n) Three (3) unexcused absences are cause for impeachment removal from the Senate.

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DIVISION VIII. FINANCE

ARTICLE I. All ASMSU-N Senate committees, commission, and councils must operate under the guidelines established in the ASMSU-N Fiscal Policy.

ARTICLE II. No council may spend over $2500 on a single function without Senate approval.

ARTICLE III. Finance/Vendings Committee

Section 1. The committee shall be responsible for the ASMSU-N annual budget; monetary aspects of the Student Activity Fee monies, and allocating the portion of funds derived from the vending machines as prescribed by the ASMSU-N Fiscal Policy and other designated financial duties.

Section 2. The committee shall consist of the ASMSU-N Business Manager who shall serve as a member, ASMSU-N President (ex-officio), 1 Senate chairperson, at least 2 Senate members, at least 2 ASMSU-N students, and 1 Faculty Advisor (ex-officio). The advisor shall be selected by the committee and approved by the Senate.

Section 3. Duties of the Chairperson or Designee

(a) To review and file accurate written records of Finance/Vendings Committe meetings and vending machine transactions.

(b) To report the financial standing of the committee.

(c) To conduct and preside over meetings of the committee.

(d) To perform other duties as directed in the ASMSU-N Fiscal Policy and the Senate.

Section 4. The committee shall review special financial requests presented to the Senate. The committee shall make recommendations to the Senate on financial requests, along with reasons for the recommendations.

Section 5. The committee shall review annual budget requests for the annual ASMSU-N budget and prepare the said budget for recommendation to the Senate. All requesting organizations will be responsible for meeting with the committee over their request. The committee will contact each organization to schedule meeting times. The committee must meet with the requesting organization before making a recommendation to the Senate.

Section 6. The committee shall be responsible for revision of the ASMSU-N Fiscal Policy when deemed necessary by the committee or the Senate.

Section 7. Shall review vending machine contracts yearly, with the MSU-Northern Comptroller at the start of the Fall Semester.

ARTICLE IV. Stipends

Section 1. Stipend positions over $100/Semester will be paid monthly after the service period.

Section 2. Monthly payments will be authorized by the President for services in the previous month.

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DIVISION IX. ELECTIONS

ARTICLE I. Eligibility

Section 1. Any active member of ASMSU-N who meets the guidelines in Articles II and III of the ASMSU-N Constitution may seek office.

Section 2. A candidate must file a Declaration of Candidacy form with the Election Commission for a specific Senate seat, excluding write- in candidates. These forms are available at the Student Union Information Desk during regular Student Union hours. A Declaration of Candidacy form must consist of the printed or typed name, class standing, and local address and phone number of the candidate. The Declaration of Candidacy form must be returned to a designated location.

Section 3. A Candidate must have attended the mandatory candidates meeting as set forth by the Election Commission, excluding write in candidates.

Section 4. The Election Commission shall publish the names of all candidates after validation. Notices of all elections shall be published at least twice before the election.

Section 5. Notices of elections shall be posted campus wide, at least one month prior to each election. Special Elections publication may be two weeks prior to any such election.

Section 6. The Spring general election shall be held no later than the second Wednesday in April. This gives the new officers time to work with the prior officers.

ARTICLE II. Campaigning

Section 1. Definition: The appearance or presentation of a candidate or a candidate’s platform for the purpose of soliciting votes or the display or distribution of campaign materials for the purpose of soliciting votes both on or off campus.

Section 2. There will be no campaigning allowed until:

(a) A candidate has turned in their Declaration of Candidacy form at the designated location by a designated time.

(b) The requirements of Division VI, Election commission have been completed.

(c) A candidate has attended the mandatory candidates meeting set by the Election Commissioner, excluding write in candidates.

Section 3. No lobbying is allowed on the day of the election, and campaign materials will be removed from 20 feet around the polling booth by the election commission. Three school days following the election all campaign material must be removed from campus

Section 4. The Election Commission may sponsor a forum for all ASMSU-N Senate candidates prior to the election at the request of the candidates. Other groups may sponsor forums or debates, but they must be approved by the Election Commission and the candidates to ensure fairness.

Section 5. Candidates running for an ASMSU-N position shall not be allowed to give campaign speeches to classes.

Section 6. Campaign materials may be placed on campus in accordance with these rules:

(a) General buildings - Campaign materials may be placed in any classroom, building, residence hall, or in the Student Union.

(b) Outdoors - Campaign materials may be outdoors in any area that is appropriate as stated by the election commission.

(c) Glass Surfaces - Campaign materials shall not be placed on any glass surfaces on campus

(d) Painted Walls- Posters shall not be placed on any painted walls on campus

(e) No defacement of campus property, such as sidewalk chalk, spray paint, etc.

Section 7. Write-in candidates who wish to campaign are subject to election rules. Campaign rules will be available at the Student Union Information Desk.

ARTICLE III. Elections

Section 1. All election dates will be set by the ASMSU-N President and the Election Commission Commissioner prior to the start of each semester. These dates will be printed on the semester ASMSU-N Calendar. The Spring general election date shall be set for no later than the second (2^nd) Wednesday in April.

Section 2. No less than four (4) voting areas shall be set up. The polls will be staffed by non-college workers to be hired by the Election Commission.

Section 3. Ballots. Names of candidates for any office shall be placed in random order on the ballot to be determined by a drawing held by the Election Commission and under the office for which they are running. The drawing shall be open to the general public. Space shall be provided for two- (2) write in candidates for each position on the ballot. The ballots for an ASMSU-N election shall consist of three (3) sections: one for officer races, one for senator races, and one for council coordinator races.

Section 4. For a write-in candidate to be eligible for election they must generate more votes than their opponent on the ballot. If no other candidate is on the ballot, the write in candidate must generate at least five (5) votes to be eligible to election. If a write-in candidate generates enough votes to be elected, they must indicate to the Election Commission, after being informed of their election by the Election Commissioner, their eligibility per Articles II and III of the ASMSU-N Constitution, and their intent to hold the elective office. Write-in candidates are excluded from filing Declaration of Candidacy form and the candidates meeting.

Section 5. To vote, a student must present some form of photo identification to the election worker and the election worker must find and have the student initial by their name on a roster of students.

Section 6. The polls must be open for at least seven (7) hours.

Section 7. Absentee ballots will be available from the Election Commission upon presentation of photo I.D. They must be completed, and returned to the election commission prior to counting of the ballots. Students requiring an absentee ballot must request one from the Election Commission Commissioner ten (10) days prior to the election date.

Section 8. Ballot Boxes will be locked for the duration of elections and may only be unlocked by a member of the Election Commission.

Section 9. Officers and Coordinators shall be elected and installed at the designated meeting at the end of the spring semester. Term of office shall include summer, fall, and spring terms in that order. Senators shall be elected and installed at the designated meeting at the end of the spring semester. Term shall consist of summer, fall, spring in that order. Freshman Senators and Program Council Coordinator will run from fall to fall.

ARTICLE IV. Counting

Section 1. Upon the closure of the polls the Election Commission shall control the counting of the ballots.

Section 2. Write-in votes need not be spelled correctly if the intent of the voter is clear to the Election Commission.

Section 3. Any ballot, which the Election Commission decides is improper, shall not be accepted.

Section 4. If the number of votes received by a winning candidate is five (5) or less above that of the nearest candidate, a recount of that race shall be made.

Section 5. A tie vote in the general election shall result in having the Election Commission schedule a special election within two (2) weeks following the election to determine the winner.

Section 6. The election candidate with the most votes wins.

Section 7. For an election to be valid, (8) percent of the active members of ASMSU-N must cast ballots.

Section 8. The numerical results shall be published in the campus paper in the first issue following the election. The results shall also be posted in the Student Union Building and the Office of the Associated Students immediately following the counting.

ARTICLE V. Violation of Rules

Section 1. Any candidate who violates any of the rules may be, at the discretion of the Election Commission, barred from participation in the election and denied from taking office. The decision of the commission may be appealed to the Judicial Council.

ARTICLE VI. Election Commission Appeals

Section 1. Any candidate who disagrees with any ruling of the Commission who wishesto lodge a complaint concerning any action in connection with the operation of the election including, but not limited to, rules violations, voting discrepancies, and improper procedures, may appeal to the Election Commission in writing within one business day after the results have been posted in the Student Union.

Section 2. The Election Commission shall notify all parties involved of any election complaints.

Section 3. The Election Commission will examine the complaint and decide what, if any, action is warranted.

Section 4. The Election commission may invalidate the results of any single race. The election commission must do so before the Senate meeting following the election.

Section 5. Any candidate may appeal the decision of the Election Commission to the Senate, who will send it to the Judicial Council to rule on the matter.

ARTICLE VII. Elections

Section 1. The Senate shall not hold elections for class officers or any other organization except the Associated Students officers, senators, and council coordinators.

Section 2. Program Council Royalty elections for Homecoming shall be confidential.

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DIVISION X. HOMECOMING

ARTICLE I. Homecoming Activities

Section 1. Elections will be held for Homecoming King and Queen, including a court of three additional couples as prince and princess, duke and duchess, and lord and lady.

Section 2. Winners will be determined by the number of votes received with King and Queen the first place vote, the prince and princess the second place vote, duke and duchess the third place vote, and lord and lady the fourth place vote.

Section 3. Candidates will run as couples not individuals.

ARTICLE II. Eligibility

Section 1. Any student who pays an activity fee.

Section 2. Any student who was not a member of a previous court.

Section 3. Candidates must be nominated by Senate recognized club or organization by the required date.

ARTICLE III. Responsibilities

Section 1. Program Council

(a) Set date for Homecoming.

(b) Set closing date for nominations at least two (2) weeks before Coronation.

(c) Plan activities including meet the candidate’s opportunities, rehearsals, photography sessions, coronation, and dance.

(d) Pay for king and queen gallery photos.

Section 2. Couples

(a) Abide by the Election Campaign rules (Division IX, Article II. ASMSU-N Bylaws)

(b) Attend all functions set up by Program Council (Class/work schedules taken into consideration).

(c) In order to have your candidate names printed on the ballots, nominees must attend a mandatory candidates meeting set by ASMSU-N Program Council at a specified location, date, and time. Write-in candidacy will be accepted as per Division IX, Article III, section 4 of the ASMSU-N Bylaws.

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DIVISION XI. SUMMER INTERIM SENATE

ARTICLE I.

The chairperson shall be selected immediately following the Spring General Elections through an application process before Spring Break of each year by the Campus Affairs Committee with the approval and consent of the Senate. The newly elected ASMSU-N officers shall be given the option of serving as Summer Interim Chair with first priority going to the new President, followed by the new Vice-President and the new Business Manager. The chairperson's term shall start immediately following the selection and end after summer business is completed. (No later than October 15).

ARTICLE II. The chairperson shall meet the following requirements:

Section 1. The chair shall be required to be a registered student.

Section 2. The chair shall be required to be in Havre residence for the entire summer session.

Section 3. The chair shall have and maintain a 2.0 GPA cumulative.

ARTICLE III.

The Summer Interim Senate shall initiate, organize, and follow through with all activities during the summer session and be responsible for the preparation of a budget from the Summer Session Activity Fee monies and the printing of summer activity tickets prior to the start of registration for summer session.

ARTICLE IV.

The Summer Interim Senate chairperson shall be responsible for the selection of a senate consisting of at least 3 members.

ARTICLE V.

All qualifications and duties of the regular Senate members shall apply to all Summer Interim Senate members, with the exception of standing committee membership.

ARTICLE VI.

All financial aspects of the Summer Interim Senate must be in accordance with the ASMSU-N Fiscal Policy.

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DIVISION XII. Amendments

Section 1. Amendments shall be in accordance to the Constitution.

Section 2. This bylaw shall take effect immediately upon its passage. This bylaw replaces and repeals all previous bylaws.

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President- Job description

To facilitate and preside as chairperson Student Senate meetings and special meetings of ASMSUN
To be official representative of the Associated Students of MSU-N
To serve as a non-voting, ex-officio member on all committees, commissions, and councils.
To appoint all committee chairpersons and other positions as enumerated in the Bylaws and Constitution.
To hire and be responsible for an Administrative Assistant and any additional Associated Student employees.
To represent or appoint representation for ASMSUN Students at Montana Associated Students Meetings and at Montana Coalition meetings.
To maintain rapport with the students of Montana State University-Northern.
To attend all Board of Regents meetings, or designate a Senate member to attend.
To maintain rapport with other University System Student Presidents.
To arrange and attend regular informal meetings with the Chancellor of Montana State University-Northern.
To serve as the Student Grievance Officer.
And all other duties as directed by the Senate.
Serve designated Office hours.
Keep up Communications with the administration, faculty, staff, clubs, and students at MSU-Northern.
Keep student senate and students informed.
Keep Senate positions filled.
Golden-N, Appoint Election Commissioner
Graduation banquet
Provide a list of campus committees and the number of students required to the Campus Affairs committee.
Appoint Student Senators to two (2) Standing committees or at the President’s discretion, other appropriate campus committees when standing committees have no remaining vacancies.
Three (3) unexcused absences are cause for impeachment removal from the Senate

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Vice-President- Job description

To act on behalf of the President in their absence.
To serve as a non-voting, ex-officio member of all boards and committees.
To assist the President in every possible, practical manner.
To serve as or appoint a parliamentarian.
Act as committee whip to oversee Student Senate committees and to make recommendations to committee chairpersons and the ASMSUN President about appointments and removal of the committee members.
To Serve as the Inter-Organizational Council (IOC) Chairperson.
To carry out any other duties specifically delegated by the President.
Serve designated office hours.
Attend all meetings unless excused*.
To provide the media council coordinator with an updated list of registered clubs and organizations for inclusion on the Campus calendar.
Keep up Communications with faculty, staff, and Campus Clubs.
To give a detailed IOC report at every Senate meeting.
Serve 3 hours/week office hours.

*Three (3) unexcused absences are cause for impeachment removal from the Senate

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Business Manager- Job description

To prepare an annual Budget Review for submission to the Senate.
To report expenditures and account balances at Student Senate Meetings.
To carry out all fiscal matters of the Associated Students.
To work with the Montana State University-Northern Business Office.
To serve as a member of the Finance/Vendings Committee.
To conduct annual Budget Review of organizations on the ASMSU-N Budget.
To carry out any other duties specifically delegated by the President.
To be accountable to the ASMSU-N Fiscal Policy.
Give a detailed monthly Detailed Budget Reports (Handouts).
Attend all Meetings unless excused*
Serve designated office hours.
Hold a Budget meeting for the following year on the first week of March.
Shall review vending machine contracts yearly, with the MSU-Northern Comptroller at the start of the Fall Semester. Then provide a written report to the student senate.
Supply each organization with monthly financial reports.
Maintain and Keep up to date a binder including EVERY transaction that has taken place that year.
Serve 3 hours/week office hours.

*Three (3) unexcused absences are cause for impeachment removal from the Senate.

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Senators Job description

To be accountable to their constituents.
To attend regular and special meetings of the Senate.
To be a member of at least two (2) standing committees or councils throughout the year.
To acquire a working knowledge of the ASMSU-N Constitution & Bylaws.
To acquire a working knowledge of the Board of Regents and Montana Associated Students’ by attending one BOR meeting during the academic year.
To carry out any other duties specifically delegated by the President.
Serve 2 hrs/week office hrs.
To serve as building Representative in accordance with ASMSUN Bylaws.
Attend School functions.
Take a positive leadership role and present a positive reflection on MSU-Northern.
Represent ALL Students of MSU-N.
Know the ASMSU-N Policies.
Acquire a general knowledge of Board of Regents, the Montana University System, and ASMSU-N.
Voice opinion and respect others for their opinions.
Recruit and encourage students to become involved.
Poll students for their opinions.
To carry out any other duties specifically delegated by the President.
Three (3) unexcused absences are cause for impeachment removal from the Senate.

Senators at Large will receive a $100 stipend per semester payable at the end of each semester after completing their above mentioned duties.

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Media Coordinator Job description

Attend all Radio Station Advisory Board Meetings and report at Senate Meetings.
The Council oversees the action of the 2 ASMSU-N media bodies (The student newspaper and yearbook).
The council is responsible to assemble all necessary information and publish the semester ASMSU-N calendar.
The Coordinator is responsible to conduct the annual interviews for the positions of the student newspaper editor and yearbook editor.
The Coordinator is responsible for public relations directed by the Student Senate.
The Coordinator is responsible to advertise any/every Student Senate event as advised by the Student Senate. Including but not limited to Town Hall meetings.
The Coordinator is responsible for a report to the student senate at the ASMSU-N Meetings.
To carry out any other duties specifically delegated by the President.
Keep an up to date binder containing Media council work done.
Serve 2 hours/week office hours.
Three (3) unexcused absences are cause for impeachment removal from the Senate.

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Program Council – Job description

The council shall consist of 1 elected coordinator, members selected by the coordinator, at least 2 senate members and at least 1 ex-officio advisor to be selected by the council with Senate approval.
The coordinator shall be elected in the fall and serve term fall to fall.
The coordinator shall preside over all meetings of the Program council.
The Council is responsible for planning and coordinating student activity programs, to include but not be limited to, dances, concerts, homecoming, and lectures. These programs must be designated to appeal to the diversified student body of the University.
Program Council activity dates will be submitted each semester to the Media Council for publication in the ASMSU-N Calendar.
The coordinators responsible for the submission of an annual budget for consideration to the ASMSU-N Finance/Vendings committee each spring.
The coordinator and Advisor shall sign contracts. All financial matters must be in accordance with the ASMSU-N Fiscal Policy.
The coordinator is responsible for a weekly report to the student senate at the ASMSU-N Meetings.
Serve 2 hours/week office hours.
Have weekly meetings with the Campus Recreation Activities Director and report at Senate meetings.
To carry out any other duties specifically delegated by the President.
Keep an up-to-date binder containing Program council work completed.
Three (3) unexcused absences are cause for impeachment removal from the Senate.

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Sustainability Council – Job description

The council shall consist of 1 elected coordinator, members selected by the coordinator, at least 2 senate members and at least 1 ex-officio advisor to be selected by the council with Senate approval.
The coordinator shall be elected in the spring and serve term fall to fall.
The coordinator shall preside over all meetings of the Sustainability council.
The Council is responsible for planning and coordinating campus sustainability programs, to include but not limited to, recycling, new technologies, c collection of recyclable items and sustainability awareness.
Sustainability Council activity dates will be submitted each semester to the Medial Council for publication in the ASMSU-N Calendar.
The coordinator will maintain a rapport with Recycle Hi-Line or any community groups endeavoring to maintain a greener planet.
The coordinators responsible for the submission of an annual budget for consideration to the ASMSU-N Finance/Vendings committee each spring.
The coordinator and Advisor shall sign contracts. All financial matters must be in accordance with the ASMSU-N Fiscal Policy.
The coordinator is responsible for a weekly report to the student senate at the ASMSU-N meetings.
Have weekly meetings with the Campus Recreation Activities Director and report at Senate meetings.
To carry out any other duties specifically delegated by the President.
Keep an up-to-date binder containing sustainability council work done.
Serve 2 hours/week office hours.
Three (3) unexcused absences are cause for impeachment removal from the Senate.

Administrative Assistant- Job description

The ASMSUN Administrative Assistant Secretary to the Student Senate. The Administrative Assistant will report directly to the ASMSUN President. The ASN Vice President and Business Manager will also be responsible for giving direction to the Administrative Assistant. ASMSUN Council Coordinators and Senators must request assistance for projects. (These requests may be coordinated through the Executive staff.)
To take all ASMSU-N Senate meeting minutes and Senate voting records.
To prepare all ASMSU-N Senate meeting minutes and distribute to all designated parties by the Friday following that meeting date and maintain a meeting minutes file.
To maintain an organized filing system of Senate business and correspondence.
To distribute Senate mail daily.
- Pick up mail daily at the Cowan Hall mailroom.
- Take Senate mail to the mailroom daily to be mailed.
Distribute mail daily to all Senate members and organizations.
Greet visitors to the offices and assist as possible
Make copies for Senate business.
Take and distribute phone messages.
Check and respond to e-mails.
Act as election commissioner for all ASMSUN elections. (see Election Commission duties pg. 10)
Update ASMSUN webpage with accurate weekly minutes and other pertinent information.
To maintain weekly office hours as arranged by the Administrative Assistant and the ASMSU-N President (3-5 hours weekly).
To carry out any other duties specifically delegated by the President.
Maintain an active agenda for weekly meetings in Senate office (with contact information).
Attend all meetings (if a meeting is to be missed, notify the President as soon as possible, and try to provide a fill in.

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