Constitution of LeTourneau Student Government

Article I – The Executive Cabinet

Section A. Definition

The Executive Cabinet shall consist of:

1. The Student Body President (President)
2. The Student Body Vice President (Vice President)
3. The LeTourneau Student Ministries President (LSM President)
4. The YellowJacket Activities Council President (YAC President)
   

Section B. Purposes and Responsibilities

1. The Executive Cabinet shall exist to promote the general welfare of the LeTourneau University Student Body (being all traditional students enrolled at LeTourneau University) by:
   • Facilitating communication between the Student Body and the University Administration;
   • By overseeing student activities and ministries through the agencies established to coordinate and conduct them;
   • By working in cooperation with the Senate.
2. The Executive Cabinet shall take the necessary and proper steps to uphold and enforce the provisions set forth in this Constitution in accordance with the University’s Administrative policies and procedures.
   

Section C. Officer Requirements

1. Each Officer must have completed a minimum of three semesters at LeTourneau University and be at least a second semester sophomore at the time of election.
2. Each Officer shall be enrolled in at least nine credit hours at LeTourneau University throughout his or her term, unless in their graduating semester.
3. Each Officer shall maintain a lifestyle consistent with the University’s Statement of Faith.
4. Each Officer shall be in good standing with the University as defined by the LeTourneau University Student Handbook and the LeTourneau University Catalog and uphold the academic and disciplinary standards as outlined by Student Life’s guidelines for IMPACT leadership.
5. Each Officer shall comply with the Constitution, Constitutional Bylaws, Executive Bylaws, and all enacted legislation.
6. Each Officer shall be elected each year by a preferential election method, as defined by the Constitutional Bylaws.
7. Each Officer shall serve a one year term beginning one week prior to the end of the Spring Semester. # Each Officer shall take the Oath of Office as stated in the Constitutional Bylaws during the last week of classes.
8. The Vice President must have completed two semesters as a member of the Senate before taking office and attended at least 20 sessions as recorded by the Secretary.
   

Section D. Executive Cabinet Officers

1. The Student Body President shall:
   • Be the official representative for the Student Body;
   • Be the responsible communicator to the University Administration on behalf of the Student Body;
   • Have the power to call and preside over meetings of the Executive Cabinet;
   • Have the power to call special meetings of the Senate with at least a forty-eight hour notice to Senators.
2. The Student Body Vice President shall:
   • Have the power to call and preside over all Senate meetings;
   • Be responsible for training Senators in leadership skills and Senate procedures;
   • Sign all bills and resolutions as required by Article II, Section E;
   • Have the power to veto any legislation as defined by Article II, Section E;
   • Assist the President in communication between Senate and the faculty and administration;
   • Succeed to the position of President should the office become vacant;
   • Fulfill the duties of the President in case of illness or absence.
3. The LSM President shall:
   • Preside over all LSM meetings;
   • Meet regularly with the University’s Spiritual Life Committee;
   • Nominate LSM Cabinet Members to be approved by Student Life;
   • Maintain a close working relationship with the University Campus Pastor;
   • Train LSM Cabinet Members in leadership skills and day-to-day procedures.
4. The YAC President shall:
   • Be responsible for ensuring that all YAC activities follow University guidelines;
   • Oversee the promotion of all YAC activities;
   • Train YAC coordinators in leadership skills and day-to-day procedures.

Section E. Removals and Vacancies

1. Resignations and Removals:
   • Each Executive Officer may resign by submitting a letter of resignation to Senate;
   • Each Executive Officer may be removed from office by a petition signed by two-thirds of the Student Body;
   • The Vice President may be removed upon a two-thirds vote of the entire Senate;
   • The LSM President may be removed upon a two-thirds vote of the entire LSM Cabinet;
   • The YAC President may be removed upon a two-thirds vote of the YAC Coordinators.
2. Vacancies
   • Should the office of Student Body President become vacant, the Student Body Vice President shall become President.
   • Should the office of LSM President or YAC President become vacant, the President shall nominate a replacement who fulfills the qualifications for office and who shall take office upon confirmation by a two-thirds vote of the entire Senate.
   • Should the office of Vice President become vacant, the President Pro Tempore shall become Vice President.

Article II – Student Senate

Section A. Definition, Powers, and Responsibilities

1. Senate shall:
   • Be the representative body of the LeTourneau University Student Body;
   • Operate in cooperation with the Executive Cabinet and the University Administration through coordinated two-way communication;
   • Give student organizations the opportunity to use Senate funds and resources to benefit the Student Body;
   • Take the necessary and proper steps to uphold and enforce the provisions set forth in this Constitution in accordance with the University’s policies and procedures.
2. All legislative powers shall be vested in the Senate.
   

Section B. Senators

1. Qualifications:
   • Each Senator shall live in the district for which that Senator is elected during the entire time in office.
   • Each Senator shall be enrolled in at least nine credit hours at LeTourneau University throughout his or her term, unless in their graduating semester.
   • Each Senator shall maintain a lifestyle consistent with the University’s Statement of Faith.
   • Each Senator shall be in good standing with the University as defined by the LeTourneau University Student Handbook and the LeTourneau University Catalog and uphold the academic and disciplinary standards as outlined by Student Life’s guidelines for IMPACT leadership.
   • Each Senator must attend Senate training as designated by the Vice President.
2. Voting Districts:
   • Each residential unit, being defined as a dorm or dorms which identify themselves in name and action as a single entity, shall be considered one voting district. The residential societies shall together be considered one voting district. The Quads shall together be considered one voting district. Family and Married Housing together with the apartments shall be considered one voting district.
   • When in question, The Department of Student Life shall determine the section of housing to be defined as a dorm.
   • Each voting district is entitled to eight Senators.
   • The number of Senators allowed per voting district shall be determined according to the last Fall Residence Life official housing list. If a voting district has less than five students according to the Fall Residence Life housing list, and more than five according to the Spring Residence Life housing list, the Spring list may be used for that voting district.
   • No floor, society, or Quad shall have more than four senators.
3. Senators shall:
   • Represent the interests of their voting district to Senate;
   • Inform their voting district of issues and legislation under consideration by Senate;
   • Act as leaders on campus;
   • Uphold and defend the Constitution;
   • Take the Oath of Office as stated by the Constitutional Bylaws.
4. Senator Removals and Vacancies:
   • Senators may be dismissed from Senate by:
     1. A two-thirds vote of all members of their voting district;
5. Submitting their letter of resignation to Senate;
   1. Moving from their voting district;
   2. Failure to follow the attendance requirements as determined by Article II Section B of the Constitutional Bylaws.

• If a Senate seat becomes vacant, a reelection must be held as determined by Article II Section C of the Constitutional Bylaws.

Section C. Senate Officers

1. The President Pro Tempore (PPT):
   • Duties:
     • Be responsible for overseeing the operation of all committees, including nomination of committee chairs and committee members;
     • Become the acting Student Body President if the positions of both Student Body President and Student Body Vice President become vacant and shall hold an election to fill these offices as determined by Article IV of the Constitutional Bylaws;
     • Promote the efficiency of Senate operations by necessary and proper means.
     • Enforce all legislation relating to the internal workings of the Senate as defined in the Senate Bylaws.
     • Maintain general order in the Senate General Assembly and acts as the designated parliamentarian.
     • Specific duties of the PPT shall be defined by Article VI of the Senate Bylaws.
   • Requirements:
     • The PPT must be a Senator at the time of his or her election.
     • The PPT must have been a Senator for at least one full semester before serving as PPT.
   • Election and Removal
     • The method and time of election shall be determined by Article II Section A the Constitutional Bylaws.
     • The PPT will serve for one academic year.
     • The PPT may be removed from office upon a two-thirds vote of the entire Senate.
     • The PPT may resign by submitting his or her resignation in writing to the Senate.
     • The PPT will retain all rights and privileges of a Senator.

Section D. Senate Assembly

1. Quorum:
   • Two-thirds of the members of the Senate shall constitute a quorum.
   • Quorum is required to conduct an official meeting.
2. Attendance requirements for Senators shall be determined by Article II Section B of the Constitutional Bylaws.
3. Each Senator shall have exactly one vote.
4. The Senate shall assemble regularly as determined by Article IX of the Senate Bylaws.
5. Senate meetings shall be open to the public.
   

Section E. Legislation

1. Legislation shall only be introduced by Senators.
2. Legislation changing standing rules or amending Senate Bylaws shall be enacted upon passage.
3. All legislation shall require the signature of the Student Body Vice President and be reviewed by the Dean of Students prior to enactment.
4. Vetoes by the Student Body President may be overridden by the Senate with a 2/3 majority vote.
5. Legislation not signed by the Student Body President within 6 days of passage by the Senate shall take effect as if it had been signed.
   

Article III – LeTourneau Student Ministries (LSM)

Section A. Definition, Powers, and Responsibilities

1. LeTourneau Student Ministries (LSM) shall be responsible for providing organized events by which students directly or indirectly address the spiritual needs of our world as an expression of our Christian faith.
2. LSM shall:
   • Encourage students’ faith and maturity in Christ;
   • Begin new student ministries;
   • Coordinate and support current ministries;
   • Seek to foster spiritual growth and unity in the University.

Section B. Executive Officers

1. Definition
   • LSM shall be comprised of a cabinet of members who work with the LSM President in carrying out the mission of LSM.
   • Cabinet members shall meet regularly with the LSM President.
   • Cabinet members may take on specific roles within LSM, as defined by the LSM Bylaws.
2. Qualifications
   • Each Cabinet member shall be enrolled in at least nine credit hours at LeTourneau University throughout their term.
   • Each Cabinet member shall maintain a lifestyle consistent with the University’s Statement of Faith.
   • Each Cabinet member shall be in good standing with the University as defined by the LeTourneau University Student Handbook and the LeTourneau University Catalog.
3. Cabinet members shall serve a one year term beginning one week prior to the end of the Spring Semester classes.
4. Additional administrative structure shall be determined by the LSM Bylaws.
5. Cabinet members shall be eligible for compensation as determined by the LSM Bylaws.
6. Cabinet members shall comply with the Constitution, Constitutional Bylaws, LSM Bylaws, and all enacted legislation.
   

Section C. Advisor

1. The chief advisor of LSM shall be the Campus Pastor or his or her designee.
2. The chief advisor shall maintain a close working relationship with the LSM President and take an active role in the planning and execution of ministries.
   

Article IV – YellowJacket Activities Council (YAC)

Section A. Definition, Powers, and Responsibilities

1. The YellowJacket Activities Council (YAC) shall be responsible for providing quality programs, activities, and special events that create opportunities for whole person and community development through edifying entertainment and creative Christian fellowship.
   

Section B. YAC Coordinators

1. Definition
   • YAC shall be comprised of coordinators who assist the YAC President in carrying out the mission of YAC.
   • Coordinators shall meet regularly with the YAC President.
   • Coordinators may take on specific roles within YAC, as defined by the YAC Bylaws.
2. Qualifications
   • Each Coordinator shall be enrolled in at least nine credit hours at LeTourneau University throughout their term.
   • Each Coordinator shall maintain a lifestyle consistent with the University’s Statement of Faith.
   • Each Coordinator shall be in good standing with the University as defined by the LeTourneau University Student Handbook and the LeTourneau University Catalog.
3. Coordinators shall serve a one year term beginning one week prior to the end of the Spring Semester classes.
4. Additional administrative structure shall be determined by the YAC Bylaws.
5. Coordinators shall be eligible for compensation as determined by the YAC Bylaws.
6. Coordinators shall comply with the direction of the office of Student Life, Constitution, Constitutional Bylaws, YAC Bylaws, and all enacted legislation.
   

Section C. Supervision

1. The chief supervisor of YAC shall be a member of Student Life appointed by the Dean of Students.
2. The chief supervisor shall:
   • Provide written authorization for all expenditures;
   • Maintain a close working relationship with the YAC President;
   • Take an active role in the planning and execution of activities and YAC leadership.

Article V – Clubs and Organizations

Section A. Definitions

1. Clubs shall be defined as associations of students with a faculty sponsor, organized around a common interest which derives its legitimacy and existence from Student Life, and funding from Student Government. Clubs shall require re-recognition by Student Life each year.
2. Organizations shall be defined as associations of students with a faculty sponsor, organized around a common interest, project or competition which derives its legitimacy and existence from the University outside of Student Life. Organizations do not need to be re-recognized each year.
3. No club or organization based solely upon on- or off-campus living arrangements shall be recognized or be allocated any money.
   

Section B. Recognition

1. In order to be recognized, clubs must apply to Student Life, filling out all forms and attaching all paperwork required, as well as fulfilling any legal requirements,
   

Section C. Privileges and Responsibilities

1. Official clubs and organizations will be given the ability to:
   • Apply for Senate funds;
   • Have a Senate lobbyist;
   • Sponsor University events;
   • Use University facilities and services;
   • Publicize and advertise on campus;
   • Use the LeTourneau University name;
   • Have other rights and privileges as outlined in the Constitutional Bylaws.

Section D. Funding

1. All official clubs and organizations seeking funding from the Senate shall be required to submit a budget, explicitly following any requirements set forth by the Financial Appropriations Committee.
2. The Senate reserves the right to deny, upon recommendation of the Financial Appropriations Committee Chair and by a majority vote, any official club or organization funding if the requirements set forth by the standing Financial Appropriations Committee are not met.
   

Section E – Investigation and Sanction

1. All official clubs, organizations, and non-residential societies shall present to the Senate a financial report showing all income and expenditures within ten class days of the Senate’s request.
2. In addition to revocation of official status, Senate may, as a sanction of a club, organization or non-residential society, require all or some money allocated to the club, organization or non-residential society during the same fiscal period to be returned to Senate within 10 school days, and require reports to Financial Appropriations Committee or the entire Senate Assembly regarding remedial actions taken.
3. Any club that has previously received funds from the Senate and has gone two years or more without being officially recognized by Student Life and without having members will have the funds in its account reverted back to the Senate General Fund.
   

Section F. Revocation of Official Status

1. Allegations of a club or organization violating University or Senate policy or procedures shall be made in writing to the Senate to be reviewed and evaluated for possible revocation of official recognition by the Senate.
2. In the event that legal restrictions or obligations prevent the claims against the organization from being released to the Senate, the allegations shall be presented to the Dean of Students who shall have the authority to immediately revoke official recognition.
   

Article VI – Student Government Finances

Section A. Source of Funds

1. Student Government funds shall come from, but not be limited to, the Student Government portion of the General Fee.
2. Revenues collected by any branch or agency of Student Government as a result of normal operations shall remain under the control of that branch or agency.
   

Section B. Categories of Funds

1. Student Government funds shall be separated into the following categories:
   • Executive Cabinet
   • Senate
   • LeTourneau Student Ministries (LSM)
   • YellowJacket Activities Council (YAC)
2. Funds from one category shall not be kept in the same account with funds from another category.
3. Each branch may transfer or allocate funds only from accounts in its category.
   

Section C. Automatic Allocations

1. Automatic allocations shall occur when funds are received by the Student Government. Funds that are not automatically allocated shall be placed in the legislative accounts.
2. Compensation shall be allocated automatically. Compensation for all Student Government officers shall be determined by the Constitutional Bylaws Article I Section D. The total compensation for all officers shall not be more than 40% of the total amount of funds allocated to Student Government. Compensation shall be in the form of a participatory merit stipend. If a position becomes vacant, compensation shall be prorated according to time spent in office.
3. The Executive Cabinet shall be allocated funds automatically. These funds shall be determined by the Constitutional Bylaws Article I Section B and shall not be less than 1% or greater than 5% of the total funds allocated to Student Government.
4. LSM and YAC shall be allocated funds automatically. These funds shall be determined by the Constitutional Bylaws Article I Section B and shall not be less than 5% or greater than 25% per agency of the total funds allocated to Student Government.
   

Section D. Expenditure Planning

1. The Executive Cabinet, LSM, and YAC must each submit a budget to the Senate no later than the second Senate session after the beginning of the fiscal period as defined by the Constitutional Bylaws Article I Section A.
2. If no proposed plan of expenditures is received from a branch by the second Senate session after the beginning of the fiscal period, then the Senate shall not allocate funds in addition to those automatically allocated to that branch for that semester.
3. The Senate must pass a general allocation bill by the second session after the Student Government receives funds from the University to provide for the additional needs of each branch that is presenting a proposed plan of expenditures.
4. Each branch shall have financial records ready to be audited at any time by request of the Administration, the Executive Cabinet, or Senate.
5. The Executive Cabinet, LSM, and YAC shall provide a financial report to the Senate at least once a semester.
   

Section E. Transfers, Allocations, and Expenditures

1. A transfer or allocation of funds by the Executive Cabinet shall require the signature of the Student Body President.
2. All transfers or allocations of funds by the Senate shall be in the form of a bill and shall be enacted by the Financial Appropriations Committee (FAC).
3. A transfer of funds by a branch for an event, the total cost of which shall not exceed the amount determined by the Constitutional Bylaw Article I Section E, must be approved by a resolution in the Senate. This approval shall occur at least two weeks before the proposed event.
   

Article VII – Constitutional Amendments and Bylaws

Section A. Constitutional Amendments

1. Proposals to amend the Constitution shall require a two-thirds vote of the Senate or a petition signed by one-third of the electorate.
2. Proposed amendments shall be available for review by the Student Body for a minimum of ten class days prior to ratification.
3. Proposed amendments shall be approved by the Dean of Students prior to being presented to the Student Body for review.
4. Amendments shall be declared ratified only after a three-fourths vote of the Senate and a majority vote of the elected members of the Executive Cabinet including the Student Body President. In the case of a tie, the President shall be the deciding vote.
5. Amendments may either be approved or vetoed, regardless of any requirements other than approval by the Dean of Students, by a two-thirds vote of the electorate provided a third of the electorate votes.
6. Constitutional amendments are not required for grammatical or reference corrections, at the discretion of the Public Relations Committee.
   

Section B. Constitutional Bylaws

1. The Senate may adopt or amend Bylaws which enforce the provisions of this Constitution.
2. Proposals to amend the Constitutional Bylaws shall require a two-thirds vote of the entire Senate.
3. Proposed amendments shall be made available to Senators at least ten class days prior to being voted on.
4. Changes in the Constitutional Bylaws affecting the amount of compensation for officers shall not take effect until the following academic year.
5. The Constitutional Bylaws may not be suspended.
   

Section C. Executive Bylaws

1. The Executive Cabinet may adopt or amend Bylaws which govern its operations and procedures by general agreement of the Executive Cabinet.
2. Executive Bylaws may not exert direct control over any entity outside the authority granted in this Constitution.
3. Executive Bylaws are strictly for the purpose of governing the internal procedures of the Executive Cabinet.
4. Changes in the Executive Bylaws affecting the amount of compensation for members shall not take effect until the following academic year.
5. Executive Bylaws may be suspended, in part or whole, for a specific amount of time by a majority vote of the Executive Cabinet.
   

Section D. Senate Bylaws

1. The Senate may adopt or amend Bylaws which govern Senate operations and procedures by a two-thirds vote of the entire Senate.
2. Senate Bylaws may not exert direct control over any entity outside the authority granted in this Constitution.
3. Senate Bylaws are strictly for the purpose of governing the internal procedures of the Senate.
4. Changes in the Senate Bylaws affecting the amount of compensation for members shall not take effect until the following academic year.
5. Senate Bylaws may be suspended, in part or whole, for a specific amount of time by a two-thirds vote of the Senate.
   

Section E. LSM Bylaws

1. LSM may adopt or amend Bylaws which govern LSM operations and procedures by a two-thirds vote of LSM.
2. LSM Bylaws may not exert direct control over any entity outside the authority granted in this Constitution.
3. LSM Bylaws are strictly for the purpose of governing the internal procedures of LSM.
4. Changes in the LSM Bylaws affecting the amount of compensation for members shall not take effect until the following academic year.
5. LSM Bylaws may be suspended, in part or whole, for a specific amount of time by a two-thirds vote of LSM.
   

Section F. YAC Bylaws

1. YAC may adopt or amend Bylaws which govern YAC operations and procedures by a two-thirds vote of YAC Coordinators.
2. YAC Bylaws may not exert direct control over any entity outside the authority granted in this Constitution.
3. YAC Bylaws are strictly for the purpose of governing the internal procedures of YAC.
4. Changes in the YAC Bylaws affecting the amount of compensation for members shall not take effect until the following academic year.
5. YAC Bylaws may be suspended, in part or whole, for a specific amount of time by a two-thirds vote of YAC.
   

—————

Constitutional Bylaws

Article I – Budget

Section A – Fiscal Periods

1. The fiscal period for the Fall semester shall begin on the 12th day of classes of the Fall semester and shall extend to the 11th day of classes of the Spring semester.
2. The fiscal period for the Spring semester shall begin on the 12th day of classes of the Spring semester and shall be extended to the last day of the second week before the end of the Spring semester classes.
3. The fiscal period for the summer shall begin on the first day of classes of the last week in the Spring semester and shall extend to the 12th day of classes of the Fall semester.
   

Section B – Automatic Allocations

1. LSM shall automatically receive 20% of the total amount of funds allocated to the Student Government. Upon presenting a semester budget in Senate session by the third session of the semester they shall receive an additional 5%.
2. YAC shall automatically receive 20% of the total amount of funds allocated to the Student Government. Upon presenting a semester budget in Senate session by the third session of the semester they shall receive an additional 5%.
3. The Executive Branch shall automatically receive 5% of the total amount of funds allocated to Student Government.
   

Section C – Automatic Carryover

1. No funds shall be automatically allocated for use during Christmas break.
2. The Executive Branch shall allocate at least $500 of its budget for use during the summer fiscal period.
3. The Senate shall allocate at least $1300 of its budget for use during the summer fiscal period, as well as for use by the Vice President for Senate training and start-up costs.
4. LSM shall allocate at least $1000 of its budget for use during the summer fiscal period.
5. YAC shall allocate at least $2000 of its budget for use during the summer fiscal period.
   

Section D – Stipends

1. All officer compensation shall be in the form of a participatory merit stipend; the percentage of the stipend received shall equal the percentage of the term served.
2. The Executive Officers shall receive the following amounts per semester:
   • President: $2,000;
   • Vice President: $1,500;
3. The Senate General Compensation Funds shall be determined by the Senate Bylaw Article IV Section A.
4. LSM General Compensation Funds shall be determined by the LSM Bylaw Article II Section A.
5. YAC General Compensation Funds shall be determined by the YAC Bylaw Article II Section A.
6. Officer compensation shall not exceed 40% of the funds allocated to Student Government. Officer compensation shall be scaled proportionally if it surpasses this percentage.
   

Section E – Allocation Bills

1. The Senate must pass a general allocation bill by the second session after the Student Government receives funds from the University in excess of $5000.
2. Neither YAC nor LSM may be allowed to spend any funds in the excess of $2500 on any given event without the explicit approval of Student Senate, with the exception of Hootenanny and any donation to spring break missions. Approval shall only be granted by means of passing a bill stating the amount of money to be spent as well as how the funds will be used.
   

Article II – Senate

Section A – Elections and Position Eligibility

1. Senators for each voting district shall be elected by a majority vote given by the residents of the voting district. The RA can reserve the right to change the process of the election if the majority vote is not possible. If one candidate does not receive the majority vote, the candidate with the least number of votes shall be dropped from the ballot and a vote will be taken for the remaining candidates. Ties shall be resolved through a game of rock/paper/scissors.
2. Unless an exemption is granted, no student may simultaneously hold both a paid IMPACT non-Senator position and a paid Senator position. Any such exception shall require the approval of the Vice President and a two-thirds vote of the Senate.
3. Any student who holds a position in Student Government shall comply with the Constitution, Constitutional Bylaws, and enacted legislation.
4. Consistent failure to meet these requirements shall be grounds for removal.
   

Section B – Attendance

1. Each Senator shall be absent from no more than three (3) meetings of the Senate General Assembly each semester.
2. Each Senator shall be absent from no more than three (3) meetings of each committee they are a member of each semester.
3. Each Senator shall have no more than three (3) substitutions in the Senate General Assembly each semester.
4. Committee Chairs may take attendance in all official committee meetings and report attendance to the President Pro Tempore.
5. When a Senator violates parts 1, 2, or 3 the President Pro Tempore shall notify the Senator and the Resident Assistant of the Senator’s district of the Senator’s removal from the Senate.
6. A Senator may receive an exemption from the stipulations of part 1 given the following:
   • Exceptions shall only be given for a valid academic reason requiring mandatory attendance during the time at which the Senate General Assembly meets.
   • The exemption shall only be valid for one (1) academic semester at a time, and consecutive exemptions shall require new approval.
   • The Senator seeking exemption shall serve on a committee during the time of their exemption and be subject to the committee attendance requirements of part 2 above.
   • The senator seeking exemption shall meet with the Vice President and President Pro Tempore to present their case for exception.
   • The Vice President and President Pro Tempore shall evaluate the validity of the exemption request and the potential contribution of the Senator seeking exemption.
   • If approved, the exempt Senator shall not be factored into quorum calculations required by the Constitution, Article II, Section D, Subsection a, so long as they remain exempt.

Section C – Vacancy Elections

• In the event of a vacancy in a Senator position, elections shall be held per Section A of this article. Per Article II, Section B of the Constitution, Senators filling vacancies shall not assume their duties or powers until they have been trained.

Section D – Mandatory Committee Membership

• Each Senator shall be a member of a committee for the first full two semesters of his/her tenure. A full semester of service shall be counted if the senator is elected by the election dates specified in the election procedures defined in the Senate Bylaws.

Section E – Senate Officers

President Pro Tempore

• The Vice President shall oversee the PPT election. Candidates will be nominated by their colleagues and all candidates shall speak to the Senate before the election takes place. In the election, if one candidate does not receive the majority, the candidate with the least number of votes will be dropped from the ballot and a vote will be taken for the remaining candidates. The Vice President shall determine the method for resolving ties.
• Should the PPT be unable to perform their duties, the Vice President may request the authority to carry out the duties outlined in Article III Section F of the Senate Bylaws until the PPT is able to perform their duties. These powers shall be granted upon a two-thirds vote of the Senate. When the PPT is ready to resume their duties, the VP will announce in the next session the return of powers to the PPT.
• Should the PPT be absent for three consecutive weeks, their continued service must be confirmed by a two-thirds majority vote in the following session of the Senate.
• Should the office of PPT become vacant, the Vice President shall hold a special election in accordance with PPT election procedures within 10 days of the vacancy, per Article II, Section C, Paragraph 1 of the Constitution. The Secretary shall inform all eligible candidates of the vacancy at least 72 hours before the special election.
  

Article III – Oath of Office

Section A – The Oath of Office

“I, __________ , do solemnly affirm that I will uphold the Constitution of the Student Body of LeTourneau University, that I will support the mission of LeTourneau University as set forth by the LeTourneau University Student Handbook, that I will live in a Christ-like manner, and that I accept this obligation freely to serve God and my fellow students faithfully in the duties of the office of __________.”

Section B – Administering the Oath of Office

The members of the Executive Cabinet must take the oath of office in chapel during the last month of the semester preceding their term of office.
The oath of office shall be administered to the Student Body President-elect by a member of the President’s Cabinet. The newly elected Student Body President shall administer the oath of office to the other newly elected members of the Executive Cabinet.
If an office is vacated during the year or not filled during the general election, the person filling that office must take the oath of office within ten class days of appointment or election.
Those who replace members of the Executive Cabinet must take the oath of office during chapel.
All newly elected senators must have the oath administered to them in a Student Senate General Assembly meeting by the Vice President.

Article IV – Executive Election

Section A – General Electorate

• The General Electorate shall consist of all LeTourneau students whom the University requires to pay a Student Government fee.
• Members of the General Electorate shall have the right to participate in Student Government sponsored events.

Section B – Position Eligibility

• Position eligibility shall be defined by the Constitution and enforced by the Governmental Processes Committee.

Section C – Announcement of Elections

• Notice of the upcoming executive election and information concerning existing positions shall be given to the students in conjunction with IMPACT.
• Applications shall be available at the IMPACT informational meeting.
• Other publicity concerning the executive election shall be the responsibility of the Governmental Processes Committee.
• Elections shall be announced in chapel before the IMPACT informational meeting.
• For any applicant to be eligible to begin the election process they must complete and submit an IMPACT application.

Section D – Interview

• Applicants running for executive cabinet positions shall attend a mandatory interview with the member of the Administration of LeTourneau University who works in closest proximity to said Executive Cabinet position or appointed designee of said member, and/or the Dean of Students, at least one member of the Executive Cabinet, and at least two members of the Governmental Processes committee.
• Interviews shall be conducted by members of the Executive Cabinet or Governmental Process Committee members not running for the office for which the applicant is being interviewed. If a member of the Interview process is disqualified in this way, they should be replaced with a Governmental Processes Committee, or Executive Cabinet Member.
• The chair of the Governmental Processes Committee shall appoint the members of the interview committee in accordance with the specifications of this section.
• Applicants may be denied candidacy by the interviewers with a unanimous vote by secret ballot of the interviewers present.
• Applicants must be informed of the reason for denial in writing (email or paper) seven (7) days prior to the due date for signatures. The applicant reserves the right to disclose reasons for denial to whomever they see fit, providing they do not release the private information of others in keeping with the laws of the state of Texas and the United States of America.

Section E – Signatures

• To be eligible for an Executive Cabinet position, the applicant must collect the signatures of 25% of the Electorate in a one-week period to begin when the interviews end.
• Signatures shall be collected on an official paper form which shall be given to the applicant after the last interview takes place.
• The collection of signatures shall be submitted to the Governmental Processes Committee.
• If an applicant has previously held the office and is seeking uncontested reelection, they may submit an appeal to the Student Body Senate requesting exemption from signature collection.
• Seven days before elections, if more than six applicants meet the signature requirements only the six with the most signatures will be given candidacy including those seeking candidacy via Section K.

Section F – Debates

• Debates shall take place between the conclusion of the interviews and the election.
• Debates shall be announced in chapel.
• Campaign speeches shall be given in chapel on the day of the election.

Section G – Election Process

• Voting shall take place by paper or online ballot by discretion of the Governmental Processes Committee. These shall be available after chapel on the day of the election.
• Voting shall be available online for three days following the election.
• Online voting shall take place using online software that shall be specified by the Governmental Processes Committee and approved by Information Technology and the Dean of Students. The source code for such software shall be made available to students or administrative staff upon request unless it is a third-party commercial tool.
• Voting shall not begin until the conclusion of the election chapel.
• Candidates shall be listed on the ballot in alphabetical order and grouped by position.
• The results of the election shall be announced publicly, and the results placed in the public record and posted on the Student Government Web Pages.

Section H – Voting

• Voters shall mark their ballots by rank, signifying their first, second, third, fourth, etc. choices for the positions.
• The election shall be determined by a ranked order voting process. If no single candidate wins with more than 50% of the votes in any round, then the candidate with the lowest number of votes is eliminated and another round of vote tallying commences until two candidates remain.
• When only two candidates remain, only a majority shall be required to win that round of elections.
• If the difference in points between the candidates for first and second place is less than or equal to 5% of the total points counted, a runoff may be conducted according to Section I, by the discretion of the second-place candidate.

Section I – Runoff Procedures

• The runoff election shall be announced to the student body in chapel at least one week in advance. The runoff election may be conducted in chapel and online or entirely through online voting and shall be open for the same length of time as the Executive Election was that year.
• The runoff shall not be the rank-vote system in Section H; each voter shall vote for the one candidate they prefer.
• The candidate receiving the majority of votes shall be declared the winner.
• Campaigning may be continued by the candidates during the time leading up to the runoff election.

Section J – Recount Procedure

• If a recount must be done, the winners for other positions with a clear winner may still be announced.
• A recount must occur within one week of the ending of the election for which the recount is occurring.
• The recount process shall recount all paper ballots and reverify all student IDs on such ballots.
• The recount shall be conducted by two members of the Governmental Processes Committee and two other senators, not on the Governmental Processes Committee and not running for any office, nominated by the President Pro Tempore and Individually Approved by a 2/3 vote of the Senate by way of secret ballot.
• Any discrepancies found during the recount shall be accounted for and explained to the satisfaction of the Governmental Processes Committee.

Section K – Write-In Candidate

• All members of the electorate shall have the right to propose a non-appropriations initiative to be placed on the ballot of the next executive election, unless a special election is called by senate
• The initiative shall be presented to the Governmental Processes Committee in writing. The wording may afterward be amended, upon approval by the Governmental Processes Committee, provided the amendment does not change the intent of the original initiative submitted, or significantly change the content of the original initiative.
• The Governmental Processes Committee shall provide official signature forms to the sponsoring student(s) within one week of receipt of the proposed initiative. The sponsor(s) of the initiative must obtain the signatures, on the provided forms, of no less than thirty percent of the electorate indicating their support of the initiative as a submitted to the Governmental Processes Committee.
• The completed signature forms must be returned to the Governmental Processes Committee no less than one week before the election. The Governmental Processes Committee shall certify the validity of the signatures submitted.
• The initiative shall be passed upon winning a simple majority approval of those voting on the initiative in the election.
• The senate may at any time, by a 2/3 majority vote, submit an initiative to the student body to be voted upon.
• This initiative shall be placed on the ballot at the next executive election unless a special election is called by the senate.
• It shall be passed upon winning a simple majority approval of those voting on the initiative in the election.
• A special election may be called at any time to put forth an initiative or constitutional amendment to the electorate for approval.
• The proposal to call a special election must be approved by 2/3 of the senate body and the student body president.
• If approved by the senate and student body president, the special election shall be announced to the electorate no less than ten class days before the election is held. The election may be held in chapel and online or online only.

Section L – Amending Article IV

• Any amendments made to Article IV must be made within the first seven weeks of fall semester if they are to take effect in the elections of the proceeding spring semester.
• Amendments to Article IV require ¾ of the student senate approval to be ratified.
• Any amendment not initiated by the Governmental Processes shall be reviewed by the Governmental Processes Committee before being proposed to the Senate for a vote.

—————

Senate Bylaws

Article I – Records

Section A – Public Record

The Public Record Shall:

1. Be kept in a place conveniently accessible by the entire Student Body;
2. Be made available in either paper or electronic form;
3. Be updated as called for in the Student Senate Website;
4. Include:
   • A current copy of the Student Body Constitution;
   • A current copy of the Bylaws;
   • A current copy of the Standing Rules;
   • All legislation in effect;
   • Copies of all Senate budgets and financial reports;
   • All committee membership rosters;
   • All failed legislation;
   • All documents as set forth in the Student Body Constitution, Constitutional Bylaws, and Senate Bylaws.
5. Records to be kept current:
   • Attendance records;
   • Minutes of the General Assembly.

Section B – Committee Minutes

1. Committee minutes may record:
   • The time and place of the meeting;
   • The members and guests present;
   • The issues discussed;
   • Any official recommendations and proposed amendments;
2. Committee meeting minutes shall be made available to Senators before the Call to Order of the committee meeting;
3. Minutes taken in paper form may be sent to the Public Records Committee to be published in the Public Record.
   

Section C – Legislation

1. Legislation arriving on the Senate floor in paper form shall be sent by the sponsor to:
   • The Student Body Vice President;
   • The President Pro Tempore;
   • The Senators.
2. Legislation arriving on the Senate floor in electronic form shall:
   • Be sent to the Public Records Committee to publish electronically;
   • Be updated by the Public Records Committee to reflect the current status.
3. Recently passed legislation shall be:
   • Made available to the Student Body Vice President within three school days;
   • Made available to all Senators once it takes effect;
   • Made available to the Public Records Committee to be published in the Public Record.

Section D – Voting Record

Voting Record:

1. A roll call vote may be taken either at the discretion of the presiding officer or a vote of at least 20% of the Senators present.
2. The voting record shall be:
   • Recorded by the Public Records Committee;
   • Published in the Public Record.

Article II – Legislation

Section A – Format for Bills

1. All bills must adhere to the following guidelines before being sent to committee and before being passed by the Senate.
2. All bills shall contain the following items in the order specified:
   • Senate bill heading;
   • Enabling clause;
   • One or more sections.
3. The Senate bill heading shall contain the following in the order specified:
   • a line containing “LeTourneau University Student Senate” at the top left;
   • a line containing the following in the order specified: “Sponsored by,” followed by a list of names of Senators sponsoring the bill, followed by an optional “by request,” if the bill was at the request of an individual not listed in those sponsoring the bill.
   • A line containing “An Act” centered;
   • The long title of the bill.
4. The long title of the bill shall begin with the words “Relating to” and shall describe briefly what the bill is about.
5. The enabling clause shall be “Be it enacted by the LeTourneau University Student Senate”.
6. Sections.
   • All sections shall be prefaced with a short heading which shall be centered.
   • All bills shall contain a short title section directly after the enabling clause.
   • A purpose clause section shall be used only if the nature of the bill is not clear otherwise.
   • All bills shall take effect upon the signatures of the Student Body Vice President and of the University Vice President of Student Affairs, unless the bill has an effective date section which specifies otherwise.
   • Vetoed legislation may be passed over the veto by the Senate with a 2/3 majority vote.

Section B – Format for Resolutions

1. All resolutions must adhere to the following guidelines before being sent to committee and being passed by the Senate.
2. All resolutions shall contain the following items in the orders specified:
   • Senate resolution heading;
   • Preamble;
   • Enabling clause if required;
   • One or more provisions;
3. The Senate resolution heading shall contain the following in the order specified:
   • A line containing “LeTourneau University Student Senate” centered;
   • A line containing the following in the order specified: “Sponsored by,” followed by a list of names of Senators sponsoring the resolution, followed by an optional “by request,” if the resolution was at the request of an individual not listed in those sponsoring the resolution.
   • A line containing “A Resolution” centered.
     • Left-aligned “Relating to” immediately after, giving a brief overview of the resolution.
     • The preamble shall contain reasons for the resolution.
     • The preamble shall not be used if the resolution is amending the Constitution or the Constitutional Bylaws.
4. The enabling clause:
   • Shall be “Be it enacted by the LeTourneau University Student Senate.”
   • Shall only be used if the resolution is amending the Constitution or the Constitutional Bylaws.
5. Provisions.
   • The provision shall contain statements of what is to be done.
   • The first provision shall begin with “Resolved, by the LeTourneau University Student Senate, that.”
   • The following provisions shall begin with “resolved, that.”

Article III – Committees

Section A – Governmental Processes Committee

1. Mission Statement: The mission of the Governmental Processes Committee is to inform and facilitate all aspects of the Student Government, including, but not limited to the Executive Election, the reading and understanding of the Constitution and its Bylaws, and the rules of operation for the Student Senate.
2. All members shall be Senators.
3. The purpose of the Governmental Processes Committee shall be to consider matters involving:
   • The Constitution;
   • The Constitutional Bylaws;
   • The Senate Bylaws;
   • The standing rules;
   • Complaints against a club or organization;
   • Allegations of violations of the Constitution.
   • The Executive Election
4. The Governmental Processes Committee shall organize and perform all aspects of the Executive Election and any Special Election.
5. Only matters adhering to its purpose may be sent to the Governmental Processes Committee.
   

Section B – Financial Appropriations Committee

1. Mission Statement: The mission of the Financial Appropriations Committee (FAC) of LeTourneau University is to allocate Senate funds in such a way that provides the greatest possible benefit to student organizations across LeTourneau University campus and to demonstrate the thoughtful and responsible stewardship of the funds with which it has been entrusted.
2. The Financial Appropriations Committee shall be composed of at least three members:
   • Chair
   • Specialists
   • All members not holding one of these positions shall be general members.
3. The FAC Chair shall
   • Maintain an accurate and current record of Senate finances;
   • Provide a report of the financial status of the Senate to the Senators at least once per semester.
4. All members shall be Senators.
5. The purpose of the Financial Appropriations Committee shall be to consider matters involving:
   • General Senate finances;
   • Appropriations to clubs and organizations;
   • Sponsorship for organized team activities;
   • Proposed spending and reimbursement.
6. Only matters adhering to its purpose may be sent to the Financial Appropriations Committee.
   

Section C – Student Life Committee

1. Mission Statement: The mission of the Student Life Committee is to facilitate communication and cooperation between Senate and the student body, the Student Life Office, Facilities Services, the University Police Department, Academic Affairs, and other departments with which communication is needed. Additionally, the Student Life Committee plans and runs Senate activities for the student body.
2. The Student Life Committee shall be composed of at least three members:
   • Chair;
   • Co-Chair;
   • Specialists;
   • All members not holding one of these positions shall be general members.
3. The purpose of the Student Life Committee shall be to consider matters involving:
   • Residence Halls;
   • Services;
   • Room and Board Fees;
   • Laundry Facilities;
   • Campus Improvements;
   • Courses;
   • Majors;
   • Tuition;
   • Learning Resources;
   • Student Senate Events;
   • Student Life Project;
   • Campus Security Assessment;
   • Security Improvement Ideas;
   • Anything else pertaining to Student Life.
4. Only matters adhering to its purpose may be sent to the Student Life Committee.
   

Section D – Public Records and Relations Committee

1. Mission Statement: The mission of the Public Records Committee is to ensure that the student body of LeTourneau University has timely access to information regarding the business of the Senate. The Public Records Committee is responsible for maintaining student access to the minutes and passed legislation of the Senate from years past and present. This includes maintaining the paper record, Senate website, and other mediums of communication.
2. The Public Records Committee shall be composed of at least three members.
3. All members shall be Senators.
4. The Public Records Chair may, at any time, correct article and section designations, spelling, punctuation, grammar, diction, and cross-references and to make such other technical and conforming changes as may be necessary to reflect the intent of the Senate.
5. The Public Records Committee shall in no case make modifications to legislation if the changes do not reflect the intent of the Senate.
6. The purpose of the Public Records Committee shall be to:
   • Maintain the Public Record;
   • Determine the content of the Senate Web Pages;
   • Maintain the Senate Web Pages;
   • Consider matters involving:
     • The Public Record;
     • The Senate web pages;
     • Senate social media pages;
     • Any official Senate Record;
     • Public face and appearance of the Senate.
7. Only matters adhering to its purpose may be sent to the Public Records and Relations Committee.
   

Section F – Formation and Management of Committees

1. Chairs
   • The PPT shall announce all chair positions. A one week period of time shall be designated for the PPT to interview all qualified candidates. In the General Assembly, the PPT shall put forth a single nomination for chair of each committee. The Senate Body shall be given the opportunity to ask questions of each committee chair nominee. Each nomination for committee chair shall be approved individually by a majority vote of the Senate Body. If a nominee does not receive a majority vote, the PPT shall nominate a new chair to be approved as previously described.
   • Chair selection for the Fall semester shall occur at the end of the preceding Spring Semester and Chair selection for the Spring Semester shall occur at the end of the preceding Fall semester.
   • Chairs shall serve a term of one semester and may be re-nominated and re-approved as described above.
   • No individual may hold multiple Chair positions simultaneously.
   • Chair shall attend meetings with the PPT as defined in this Article.
   • Chairs may resign by submitting a written letter of resignation to the PPT. The letter shall be read aloud in the General Assembly.
   • Chairs may be removed by a two-thirds vote of the entire committee or the PPT, if given just cause to do so.
   • In the event of a vacancy, a new chair shall be nominated and approved as described above.
2. Co-Chairs
   • Committee chairs may select a co-chair to aid in completion of committee duties.
   • The committee chair retains final authority of the committee.
   • The co-chair must be a nominated and approved member of the committee.
   • Co-chairs shall be jointly appointed by the PPT and the chair of the committee in question.
   • Co-chairs shall serve a term of one semester and may be re-selected as described above.
   • Co-chairs may resign by submitting a written letter of resignation to the PPT. The letter shall be read aloud in the General Assembly.
   • Co-chairs may be removed by a two-thirds vote of the entire committee or by agreement of the PPT and committee chair.
3. Specialists
   • Specialists preside over specific areas or responsibilities of a committee that require the attention of more than one member.
   • Specialists shall be selected by the Committee Chair, based on the specific needs of the committee.
   • Specialists shall serve a term of one semester and can be reselected.
   • Specialists shall be members of the committee for which they are selected.
4. Committee Members
   • After all chairs have been confirmed, the PPT shall nominate, in the Senate General Assembly, members of formed committees. The nominations shall be approved by a majority vote of the Senate Body. This process shall be repeated as new committee members are added throughout the year.
   • Committee members shall not be nominated before the chair of the committee in question has been approved.
   • Committee members shall serve until the completion of the academic year and may be re-nominated and re-approved as described above.
   • To resign from a committee, the Senator shall contact the committee chair and the PPT. The resignation shall be announced in the committee meeting and the committee chair shall notify the PPT, Vice President, and Public Records Committee.
   • Committee members may be removed by a two-thirds vote of the entire committee; by the chair of that committee; or by the PPT.
5. Committee Meetings
   • Committees shall meet regularly to fulfill their duties as set forth in this Article.
   • Committee meetings shall be open to non-member Senators and the general public.
   • Only committee members may vote on an issue.
   • Any visitor wishing to speak during a committee meeting must be recognized by the committee chair.
   • The visitor must leave if requested to by the committee chair.
6. Committee Chair Meetings
   • Committee chairs shall meet regularly with the PPT to discuss committee operation and Senate functioning.
   • Co-chairs shall be invited to attend.
   • If unable to attend, a committee chair may send a designee from that committee.
   • The PPT shall chair the meeting.
   • The PPT may choose to take minutes, and may enlist one of the committee chairs to do this.
   • The Vice President shall be invited to all committee chair meetings, but not required to attend.
   • All additional guests must be invited by the PPT.

Article IV – Finances

Section A – Compensation

1. Compensation of Senate Officers other than the Vice President shall be as follows:
   • President Pro Tempore: $750
2. Compensation of committee Chairs shall be $550 per academic semester. For each consecutive year that a Chair serves, compensation will increase by $100 per year. This compensation shall not exceed $750 per academic semester.
3. For Chairs or Officers who complete a partial term, compensation shall be prorated in accordance with the percentage of the term served.
4. Should the PPT act as Chair of a committee, they will only receive pay for their primary role as PPT.
   

Section B – Financial Reports

1. The Chair from the Financial Appropriations Committee shall present a current financial report to the Senate every fourth session.
   

Article V – President Pro Tempore

Section A – Duties and Rights

1. Attendance
   • The President Pro Tempore shall track and enforce attendance as required by the Constitutional Bylaws.
   • Should a senator miss four or more sessions, the PPT shall not remove the senator until due effort has been made to contact the senator.
   • The PPT may exercise grace in the case of absences that occurred for legitimate reasons, such as illness or class trip.
   • The PPT may exercise grace if the senator in question is still actively involved in other aspects and areas of the Senate.
   • In all cases, the PPT reserves the right to determine the applicability of attendance rules.
2. Rules of Order
   • The PPT shall issue first and second warnings to a Senator for non-disruptive infractions of the Bylaws and rules governing Senate Assembly.
   • Upon a third non-disruptive infraction by a Senator, the PPT shall escort the infracting Senator out of the Assembly or bar said Senator from the Assembly.
   • The PPT shall have the authority to expel, forcibly or otherwise, any disturbances in the Assembly. ** The PPT shall have the right to enlist other Senators to assist him or her if it becomes necessary.
   • The PPT shall have the authority to revoke attendance for a Senator for violation of dress code, Senate guiding laws, or standing rules.
   • The Speaker Chair may override the decision of the PPT if he or she deems it inappropriate or excessive.
3. Committee Chair Selection
   • The PPT shall nominate all committee chairs as defined in Article III, Section F of these Bylaws.
   • Should a committee Chair position remain unfilled, the PPT may act as Chair but will not receive payment for the Chair role.
4. Committee Participation
   • The PPT shall attend as many committee meetings as practicable.
   • In all cases the PPT shall be informed of committee happenings and operations.
5. Internal Communications
   • The PPT holds final responsibility for the creation and management of Senate communication methods.
   • The PPT shall ensure each committee sets up and utilizes effective communication methods.
   • The PPT shall ensure that all committees actively communicate and collaborate as appropriate.
   • The PPT may exercise grace in the case of absences that occurred for legitimate reasons. Such legitimate reasons shall include, but not be limited to:
     • illness
     • class trip
     • conflicts with updated meeting time or place
   • The PPT shall hold regular meetings of Senate leadership as defined in Article III, Section F of these Bylaws.

Article VI – General Assembly

Section A – Time and Place

1. The Senate shall meet weekly at 11:00am on Thursdays in Heath Hardwick Hall 104.
2. The Vice President may change the meeting time or place provided proper notice to the Senate body.
   1. The Vice President shall confer with the PPT before any changes to meeting time or place are made
   2. Proper notice shall be given 24 hours prior to updated meeting time or place to entirety of Senate body

Section B – Speaker Chair

1. The Speaker Chair shall preside over the session.
2. The Vice President shall normally act as Speaker Chair.
3. If the Vice President is absent for any reason, the PPT shall act as Speaker Chair for the session.
4. If both the Vice President and the PPT are absent for any reason, the Chairman of Governmental Processes shall act as Speaker Chair for the session.
5. The Speaker Chair may allow non-Senators to speak in session at their discretion.
   

Section C – Dress Code

1. Women shall wear business casual attire including collared shirts or blouses, and pants without holes or skirts of appropriate length.
2. Men shall wear business casual attire including collared shirts, pants without holes, and closed toed shoes.
3. Senators with campus jobs or labs immediately before or after session are exempted from abiding to the previous two clauses so long as they fulfill other clauses contained in this section.
4. Senators may wear cultural dress provided it is considered professional attire in the country/culture of its origin and it complies with LeTourneau University standards of appropriate attire. This shall include cultural dress from the former Republic of Texas.
5. Shorts are prohibited
6. Sunglasses are prohibited
7. The PPT shall have the authority to enforce and interpret dress code as necessary.
8. The Vice President shall have the authority to override the dress code at any time.
9. Dress code shall apply to the Vice President, Senators, and substitutes.
   

Section D – Standing Rules

1. The Senate standing rules shall be Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly Revised, 11th Edition, or an abridged version deemed sufficient and provided by the Public Records and Relations Committee.
   

Section E – Senate Lobbyists

1. A Senate lobbyist shall:
   • check in with the PPT and presiding Speaker Chair before the start of a meeting at which the lobbyist wishes to speak;
   • have the right to speak and answer questions during open debate time only on issues pertaining to the group the lobbyist represents, as determined by the presiding officer;
   • follow Senate time and procedure rules;
2. A Senate lobbyist shall not vote, make motions, nor introduce legislation.
   

Article VII – Senator Training

Section A – Initial Training

1. Prior to being sworn in, all Senators elected in the spring General Election shall receive training as directed by the Vice President.
2. This training shall take place before the end of the spring semester.
3. Initial training shall consist of:
   • An overview of Senate guiding laws including the Constitution of the Student Body, Constitutional Bylaws, and Senate Bylaws;
   • An overview of Senate officer positions;
   • A description of all committees and their functions;
   • Instruction on the use of Senate webpages and resources;
   • An overview of Senate’s standing rules (Robert’s Rules) as they apply to normal Senate functions;
   • A brief overview of the structure of Student Government.
4. Training shall be conducted by the Vice President or any senior Senator as directed by the Vice President.
   

Section B- Vacancy Training

1. Any senator elected in a vacancy election shall receive training as specified in Section A of this article.
2. The senator shall not be sworn in nor assume any duties until this training has been completed.
3. The Vice President shall make efforts to complete this training as expediently as practicable.
4. The contents of this training shall be equivalent to that of initial training.
   

Section D – Fall IMPACT Retreat

1. The Vice President, the PPT, and all committee chairs and co-chairs are expected to attend the fall IMPACT Retreat, as defined by Student Life.
2. On a case-by-case basis, senators not covered by the above part may be allowed to attend the fall IMPACT Retreat, provided they have the permission of the Vice President and Student Life.
3. If not attending the fall IMPACT Retreat, senators are expected to arrive on campus one week prior to the beginning of classes to allow for pre-semester planning.
4. If, for any reason, a senator cannot return early, this must be communicated to the Vice President as expediently as possible.
   

Section E – Spring IMPACT Retreat

1. The spring IMPACT Retreat shall be for incoming leaders that will take office the following fall.
2. The Vice President-elect is expected to attend.
3. Senators expressing interest in either an officer or committee chair position for the following fall shall be invited to attend.
4. Unless otherwise invited by the Vice President-Elect or Student Life, the current officers and members shall not be invited.
   

Copyright © 2025 LeTourneau University — Powered by