Submitted by: Farthest North Girl Scout Council
Status: Submitted to councils
Proposal: To amend the Girl Scouts of the USA Bylaws Article Vlll, Section 1 by inserting:
Prior to final approval by GSUSA, any proposed changes to the Blue Book of Basic Documents, not previously directed or approved by the National Council, shall first be published and distributed as ‘proposed changes’ to all chartered Councils, to then be disseminated to National Council delegates. Every chartered Council shall have 45 days to provide comment to GSUSA regarding the proposed changes. Prior to finalizing changes to the Blue Book of Basic Documents, GSUSA shall consider the comments of the Councils.
This amendment will apply to all changes to the Blue Book of Basic Documents proposed after the 2020 National Council Session.
Rationale: Historically speaking, the Blue Book of Basic Documents has been updated every three years after each National Council Session, when delegates approved changes. However, starting in 2015, when GSUSA focused on Council alignment around their strategic initiatives, the GSUSA Board of Directors has voted to change the Blue Book seven (7) times, without National Council delegate input or approval. This has made it extremely difficult for the Councils and the National Council delegates to stay current with each round of changes. In an effort to keep up with any future changes and allow for National Council delegates to fully participate in the democratic process, we urge the passage of this constitutional amendment.
Since the Girl Scout movement values the democratic process, there should be an input process for National Council delegates, through their Councils, to weigh in on proposed changes to the governing documents. The closest example we can look at to build a strong input system into policy decision-making is the US political system. In all state legislative systems, there is a public input process and waiting period for the legislature to digest the feedback prior to enacting law. Since the Girl Scout organization developed their democratic system in a similar way to the US political system, this input process should be familiar to delegates and a logical step for the GSUSA Board to hear from delegates and garner their buy-in.
This proposal will honor the spirit of the Constitution of the Girl Scouts of the USA as it states: “The ultimate responsibility for the Girl Scout movement rests with its members.”
Financial Impact: The Fiscal Impact to GSUSA would be minimal: The Blue Book is now electronically transmitted to all councils. Any comments from Councils and the National Council delegates will be need to be compiled and distributed to GSUSA Board members, requiring minimal staff time.
