Parliamentary Procedure Q&A

Q: How can the Chief of Operations be impeached, such as in a fire dept., following Robert's Rules of Order? What is the correct procedure for removing an elected official, and how are the charges supposed to be filed? - T.W., Dec. 4, 1999

A: Any two members (maker and seconder) may impeach (charge) an officer or other member with improper conduct by moving - in executive session - that he be charged with the offense and that the association determine what discipline, if any, should be imposed. A committee sometimes is given the task of investigating the charges through interviews and hearings, then reports its findings to the assembly at a trial. The assembly has the final decision on guilt and penalty.

This procedure is complex and is often colored with emotion. I strongly suggest a thorough understanding of RONR Section 60.


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