Bylaws Update: Recommended Changes for 2026
This communication is being sent to all members to comply with the requirement of communicating the proposed Bylaws changes 30 days prior to the meeting date (June 17). Additionally, this communication is being archived online. The original communication was sent to all members via email on May 14, 2026.
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We are eagerly anticipating the Midyear Meeting in Washington, D.C. this June!
We will hold business meetings, including the Governing Board meeting, on Wednesday, June 17, from 1:00-3:00 p.m.
We invite all members to read the proposed changes to the Bylaws below.
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Rationales for Recommended Changes for 2026
These Recommended Changes will be effective with the next full election cycle (2027)
Note: that during the National Conference, when the bylaws are presented at the Governing Board meeting, some revisions may still occur.
National Bylaws Itemized Rationale for Changes
Article VI Section 1: The addition of a 4th National Liaison will increase the number of members of the Executive Committee. A 4th Liaison will allow for additional Liaison coverage across the country and will also increase the pipeline of REALTOR® leadership.
Article VI Section 1B: This addition clearly defines that the election of Executive Committee members is conducted separately from Officer elections.
Article VI Section 4: The quorum is increased with the addition of a new Executive Committee member.
Article VII Section 2: Specifies that there are four (4) National Liaisons elected from members in good standing who are REALTORS®/REALTOR-ASSOCIATES®.
Article VII Section 4A: Change in verbiage for a clear understanding of why the petition has been filed.
Article VII Section 4C: Change in verbiage for the officer to respond to the concerns.
Article IX Section 1A: This change clearly defines that the 4th Liaison will be added to the Candidate Review Committee.
State Bylaws Itemized Rationale for Changes
Article IV Section 2: The change in verbiage more clearly emphasizes that the Governing Board is responsible for overseeing and conducting the business of the Network, including its officers and members. It replaces the nebulous “just cause” definition and specifically references applicable documents and policies, reducing ambiguity and limiting subjective interpretation. It also allows for corrective action prior to removal of an officer.
Article VI Section 2: The change in verbiage clearly explains the duties and responsibilities of the President.
Article VI Section 2E: The change in verbiage offers more clarity in expectations that go along with the State Liaison position.
Article VI Section 3A: The change in verbiage defines more clearly why an Officer may be removed from office if they won’t resign voluntarily.
Article VI Section 3B: The change in verbiage outlines more clearly that a special meeting can be convened to discuss removal of an Officer and the requirements of the vote.
Article VI Section 3C: Similar to the National Bylaws (Article VII, Section 4C), the Officer is provided with the specific concerns for the Special meeting and is given the opportunity to review the information and respond.
Article VI Section 3D: The addition of this verbiage clearly defines that the Officer can present a response at the meeting of the Governing Board or in advance.
Article IX Section 1: This verbiage changes the date of Officer reporting to August 31st. Establishing an earlier reporting deadline supports greater operational efficiency, allows staff adequate time to process leadership records.
Local Bylaws Itemized Rationale for Changes
Article IV Section 2: This aligns with the State Bylaws proposed change. The change in verbiage more clearly emphasizes that the Governing Board is responsible for overseeing and conducting the business of the Network, including its officers and members. It replaces the nebulous “just cause” definition and specifically references applicable documents and policies, reducing ambiguity and limiting subjective interpretation. It also allows for corrective action prior to removal of an officer.
Article VI Section 3A: The addition of the specific verbiage regarding failure of the Officer to uphold policies, documents and standards clarifies why and Officer or Director may be removed.
Article VI Section 3B: The inclusion of this verbiage clearly defines that a special meeting can be held and that a ¾ vote of the total membership in the affirmative is required to remove the Officer or Director.
Article VI Section 3C: Similar to the National & State Bylaws, the Officer is provided with the specific concern for the Special meeting and is given the opportunity to review the information and respond.
Article VI Section 3D: Similar to the State Bylaws, the addition of this verbiage clearly defines that the Officer can present a response at the meeting of the Governing Board or in advance.
Article IX Section 1: This verbiage changes the date of Officer reporting to August 31st. Establishing an earlier reporting deadline supports greater operational efficiency, allows staff adequate time to process leadership records.
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For a reminder of who votes, please use our infographic below.
