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PPTA Bylaws
as of 1.12.10
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| Bylaws 
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ARTICLE
SECTION 1. The name of this organization is the Pennsylvania Physical Therapy Association, hereinafter referred to as the Chapter and the Therapy Association (PPTA) Inc., a Chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association.
SECTION 2. The territorial boundaries of this Chapter shall be those of the
ARTICLE II. OBJECT
The object of the Chapter shall be the same as those set forth by the Association and in the Articles of Incorporation in the
ARTICLE III. FUNCTIONS
The functions of the Chapter shall be the same as the functions of the Association as established in its Bylaws.
ARTICLE IV.
SECTION 1. CATEGORIES AND QUALIFICATIONS OF MEMBERS. The Chapter membership categories and qualifications for Physical Therapist, Retired Physical Therapist, Life Physical Therapist, Student Physical Therapist, Physical Therapist Assistant, Retired Physical Therapist Assistant, Life Physical Therapist Assistant, and Student Physical Therapist Assistant shall be the same as those of the Association. In addition, the Chapter shall maintain a single Corresponding Member category with rights and privileges as stated in the Association bylaws.
SECTION 2. RIGHTS AND PRIVILEGES OF MEMBERS. Physical Therapist Assistant, Retired Physical Therapist Assistant, and Life Physical Therapist Assistant members may hold office, with the exception of the office of Chapter President, President Elect, Vice President, Chief Delegate, District Chair, District Vice Chair, or any position that may succeed to the Presidency or District Directorship. Corresponding members shall not hold office on the Chapter or District levels.
SECTION 3. ADMISSION TO MEMBERSHIP. Admission to Chapter membership is by assignment by the Association’s Board of Directors.
SECTION 4. GOOD STANDING
A. An individual member is in good standing within the meaning of these Bylaws if the member is in good standing in the Association.
B. The Chapter assumes the responsibility of verifying that a member is in good standing, including verification that an individual is in the proper membership category.
C. Any member of the Pennsylvania Physical Therapy Association, Inc., unless employed by a Federal Service and only by a Federal Service, who practices within the territorial jurisdiction of the Chapter must meet the requirements of the practice of physical therapy within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as set forth by the State Board of Physical Therapy.
SECTION 5. DISCIPLINARY ACTION.
A. Any member of the Chapter who is suspended by the Association shall have their membership privileges suspended from the Association and from the Chapter. Any member who is expelled from membership in the Association shall be expelled from Chapter membership.
B. Complaints to the effect that a member has violated the ethical principles or standards of the Association shall be processed in accordance with the Association’s Procedural Document on Disciplinary Action.
SECTION 6. REINSTATEMENT.
Individuals are reinstated to Chapter membership in accordance with the Association’s Standing Rules. The Chapter may not charge a reinstatement fee.
ARTICLE V. CHAPTER COMPONENTS, DISTRICTS AND SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS
SECTION 1. DISTRICTS.
A. AUTHORIZATION. The Chapter Board of Directors may authorize the establishment of Districts.
B. NUMBER OF DISTRICTS. This Chapter shall be composed of a minimum of seven (7) districts.
C. GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRICTS.
1. The Northwestern District shall include the following counties: Erie, Mercer, Cameron, Warren, Venango, Clarion, McKean, Forest, Jefferson, Crawford, and Elk.
2. The Southwestern District shall include the following counties: Lawrence, Westmoreland, Butler, Green, Beaver, Armstrong, Fayette, Allegheny, and Washington.
3. The Northcentral District shall include the following counties: Potter, Lycoming, Tioga, Clinton, Bradford, Sullivan, Union, Centre, Columbia, Northumberland, Snyder, and Montour.
4. The Southcentral District shall include the following counties: Franklin, Mifflin, Adams, York, Berks, Lebanon, Lancaster, Cumberland, Perry, Juniata, Dauphin, and Schuylkill.
5. The Westcentral District shall include the following counties: Indiana, Cambria, Somerset, Clearfield, Huntingdon, Fulton, Bedford, and Blair.
6. The Northeastern District shall include the following counties: Susquehanna, Luzerne, Northampton, Wyoming, Wayne, Monroe, Lehigh, Carbon, Lackawanna, and Pike.
7. The Southeastern District shall include the following counties: Bucks, Philadelphia, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery.
D. DISTRICT BYLAWS AND RULES OF ORDER.
1. The Districts shall operate under Bylaws that shall not be inconsistent with Chapter or Association Bylaws and shall be approved by the Chapter Board of Directors.
2. When PPTA Bylaws have been amended so as to require amendment of District Bylaws, the District shall prepare the necessary amendments and submit them to the Chapter Chief Delegate within 90 days.
3. The Bylaws or Rules of Order, or any amendment thereto, of a District shall not become effective until approved by the Board of Directors of this Chapter. If proposed Bylaws or Rules of Order, or any amendment thereto, are disapproved by the Board of Directors, the affected District may appeal to the membership of this Chapter at the next annual membership meeting and the Board of Directors must act on the matter according to the instruction of the membership
E. NEW DISTRICT FORMATION.
1. To be eligible to become a new District, the involved geographic area must be delineated by one or more specific counties.
2. PETITION. A petition shall be received before April 1 of the year in which it is to be considered by the Board of Directors for approval/disapproval. The petition shall include: APPROVAL. A majority vote of the Board of Director.
a. A detailed statement of purpose and rationale for new district formation
b. Evidence that the existing districts involved in the redistricting have been notified.
c. Legible signatures, membership numbers and addresses of at least 75 of the Physical Therapist, Life Physical Therapist, Retired Physical Therapist, Physical Therapist Assistant, Life Physical Therapist Assistant, Retired Physical Therapist Assistant members in good standing within the area of the proposed district.
d. A list of eligible members willing to serve as Officers and Committee members.
e. Proposed District Bylaws or Rules of Order.
3. APPROVAL. A majority vote of the Board of Directors
F. MEMBERSHIP. The qualifications for membership and the rights and duties of the members in a component district shall be consistent with those set forth for the Chapter.
G. FINANCE. The districts shall maintain complete and accurate financial records.
H. REPRESENTATION ON CHAPTER BOARD OF DIRECTORS.The elected chairman of each district shall be a Director of this Chapter.
I. MEETINGS OF DISTRICTS. Districts shall hold a minimum of four (4) meetings annually.
J. DISTRICT REPORTS. District shall submit to the Chapter the following:
1. Annual reports of activities and other such reports as the Board of Directors may request.
2. Minutes of executive committee meetings and other meetings where action is taken within sixty (60) days.
K. DISSOLUTION OF DISTRICTS.
1. Districts which fail to comply with Chapter policy or these Bylaws may be abolished provided they are given at least one month’s notice and at least two-thirds of the Board of Directors concurs.
2. Districts may be dissolved by a two-thirds vote of the Board of Directors if the membership of the district remains fewer than 75 members during any consecutive 12-month period.
3. A district so disciplined shall have the right to appeal to the Chapter membership at its next annual meeting and the decision of the membership in the matter shall be final.
4. All records and property of a district belong to the Chapter and must be returned to it on the dissolution of the district.
SECTION 2. SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS.
A. AUTHORIZATION. The Chapter Board of Directors may authorize the establishment of special interest groups.
B. SPECIAL INTEREST GROUP BYLAWS AND RULES OF ORDER.
1. Special interest groups shall operate under Bylaws and shall not be inconsistent with Chapter and Association Bylaws and shall be approved by the Chapter Board of Directors.
2. The Bylaws or Rules of Order, or any amendment thereto, of a Special Interest Group shall not become effective until approved by the Board of Directors of this Chapter. If proposed Bylaws or Rules of Order, or any amendment thereto, are disapproved by the Board of Directors, the affected Special Interest Group may appeal to the membership of this Chapter at the next annual meeting and the Board of Directors must act on the matter according to the instructions of the membership.\
C. PURPOSE. To provide a means by which members having a common interest in special areas of physical therapy may meet, confer, exchange ideas, and promote the interests of the respective groups.
D. FORMATION. Upon petition to the Board of Directors by 2% or more of the Chapter membership as of January 1 of the year of the request for formation, representing all the districts in the Chapter, requesting permission to form a special interest group and stating the purpose thereof and requirements for membership therein. A majority vote of the Board is required for establishment of a new special interest group.
E. MEMBERSHIP.
1. Is limited to current members of the PPTA and corresponding members who have met the criteria for this membership category based on APTA Bylaws.
2. Members of special interest groups are not required to belong to an APTA Section of like nature or of similar interests.
F. FINANCE. The special interest groups shall maintain complete and accurate financial records.
G. REPRESENTATION ON THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS. Special interest groups shall provide an officer for attendance to at least (1) Board of Directors meeting per year.
H. MEETINGS OF SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS. Special interest groups shall hold one (1) business meeting per year during the fall conference of the Chapter.
I. SPECIAL INTEREST GROUP REPORTS. Special interest groups shall submit to the Chapter the following:
1. Annual reports of activities and other such reports as the Board of Directors may request.
2. Minutes of executive committee meetings and other meetings where action is taken within sixty(60) days.
J. DISSOLUTION OF SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS.
1. Special interest groups, which fail to comply with Chapter policy or these Bylaws or fails to maintain a membership of at least 1% of Chapter membership may be abolished provided they are given at least one month’s notice and if at least two-thirds of the Board of Directors concur. A group so disciplined shall have the right to appeal to the Chapter membership at its next regular meeting and the decision of the membership in the matter shall be final.
2. A special interest group may dissolve voluntarily according to its bylaws.
3. All records and property of a special interest group belong to the Chapter and must be returned to it on the dissolution of the special interest group.
SECTION 3. LIMITATIONS. All Chapter components are subject to the following limitations:
A. Bylaws and policies of the Association and the Chapter.
B. No district or special interest group shall profess or imply that it speaks for or represents the Chapter or members other than those currently holding membership in the district or special interest group unless authorized by the Chapter Board of Directors.
C. Districts and special interest groups shall not establish dues, but this does not exclude them from raising funds by voluntary means.
ARTICLE VI. MEETINGS
SECTION 1. NUMBER OF MEETINGS.
i. There shall be one annual meeting of the Chapter. Notices of this meeting shall be sent to membership at least thirty (30) days prior to the date of the meeting.
ii. Special meetings may be called by a two-thirds vote of the Board of Directors and shall be called in response to a written request of five percent (5%) of the members of the Chapter. Notices of special meetings shall be sent at least ten (10) days prior to the meeting.
iii. Such meetings may not conflict with APTA meetings or functions.
SECTION 2. VOTING BODY. The voting body shall be those members eligible to vote present at annual or any special meetings properly called by the President. In the event that a decision must be made by the membership and a meeting cannot be held, the Board of Directors shall arrange for a vote by mail. A majority of votes shall determine the action, with a minimum return of 5% of the membership constituting a valid vote.
SECTION 3. QUORUM. Three percent (3%) of the voting membership of the Chapter in attendance at any annual or special meeting of the Chapter properly called by the Board of Directors shall constitute a quorum.
SECTION 4. ATTENDANCE. Attendance at business meetings is limited to Association members and invited guests approved by the Chapter officers.
SECTION 5. MINUTES. Minutes of all meetings shall be sent to APTA within 45 days.
ARTICLE VII. BOARD OF DIRECTORS
SECTION 1. COMPOSITION.
A. BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
1. The Board of Directors shall consist of the officers and directors of this Chapter.
2. The officers shall be the President, President Elect (when serving), Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Chief Delegate.
3. The Directors shall be the chairmen of the component districts.
B. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE. The Executive Committee shall consist of the President, President Elect (when serving), Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Chief Delegate, and Member-at-Large.
SECTION 2. QUALIFICATIONS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
Only such members of the Chapter as are provided for in the Association Bylaws, Article IV, Section 3, Subparagraph B. (3).b, who have been members in good standing for a period of at least two years immediately proceeding their election, and who have consented to serve, shall be eligible for election to office.
SECTION 3. TERM OF OFFICE.
A. All officers and directors shall be elected for three (3) year terms, or until the election of their successors, except the President Elect who shall serve a one (1) year term coinciding with the final year of the President’s term. At the completion of the one-year term, the President Elect shall succeed to the office of President and shall serve a two-year term.
B. If the President is slated for election for the office of President Elect for second term, and is elected, the President Elect position shall be vacant for that term.
C. The Member-at-Large shall be elected during the annual conference from among the District Directors and shall serve a one (1) year term immediately following the annual conference.
D. No officers or directors shall serve more than two (2) consecutive terms in the same office.
E. There shall be a ten (10) consecutive year limitation on offices at the Executive Committee level. If an officer or director is appointed to a position, the years spent in the appointed position shall not count in the limitation
F. Officers shall assume office after installation at the first Board of Directors meeting following the election. The Directors shall assume office at the Board of Directors meeting following the election in their respective districts.
SECTION 4. VACANCIES.
A. If, before the expiration of the term for which she/he was elected, the President dies, resigns, is removed or becomes disqualified, the President Elect shall succeed to the office vacated for the unexpired portion of the term, and shall serve for the subsequent three-year term.
B. If, before the expiration of the term for which she/he was elected, the President Elect dies, resigns, is removed or becomes disqualified, a special election will be held by mail ballot and within 45 days to fulfill the remainder of the term.
C. If both the President and President Elect positions are vacant, the Vice President shall succeed to the office of President for the unexpired portion of the term.
D. Vacancies created by death, resignation, removal or disqualification of other officers with less than two (2) years of term remaining shall be filled by appointment by the Board of Directors for the unexpired portion of the term. Any vacancy with an unexpired portion of term of two (2) or more years remaining shall require a special election to fill the position.
E. Vacancies created by death, resignation, removal or disqualification of committee chairmen shall be filled by appointment by the Board of Directors for the unexpired portion of the term.
SECTION 5. DUTIES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS. The Board of Directors shall:
A. Carry out mandates and policies of the Chapter as determined by the Membership.
B. Subject to the provision of these Bylaws, the Bylaws of the Association and all resolutions and enactments of the membership, have full power and complete authority to perform all acts and to transact all business for and on behalf of the Chapter.
C. Appoint the chairmen of the standing committees except the Nominating Committee. Direct the activities of the standing committees except for the Nominating Committee and Ethics Committee.
D. Create, appoint and direct such task forces as it deems necessary to carry on the business of the Chapter.
E. Bring before the members at any annual or special meeting or by correspondence, communications from the Association for their information, opinion, and or vote.
F. Take appropriate disciplinary action against any Chapter component, which fails to comply with policies or Bylaws of this Chapter.
G. Submit the minutes of the Chapter Board of Directors meetings to the Board of Directors of the APTA along with any other reports as may be requested. Minutes shall be submitted within 45 days of a meeting.
H. Appoint two (2) tellers to assist the chief teller in counting mail voting.
I. Allocate authorized dues to Chapter components.
J. Arrange for a satisfactory bond for the Treasurer.
K. Arrange for an annual audit of the financial records of the Chapter.
L. Approve the annual budget.
SECTION 6. CONDUCT OF BUSINESS
A. BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
1. The Board of Directors shall meet at least twice a year.
2. A majority shall constitute a quorum.
3. The President may call a special meeting as needed, and shall call a special meeting on written request of two-thirds of the members of the Board of Directors. Notice of all meetings shall be given to all members of the Board of Directors not later than five (5) days before the date set for the meeting.
B. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.
1. The Executive Committee shall meet not less than two (2) times a year and shall exercise the power of the Board of Directors between its meetings.
2. Two-thirds of the members shall constitute a quorum.
3. The President may call a special meeting as needed, and shall call a special meeting on written request of two-thirds of the members of the committee. Notice of all meetings shall be given to all members of the Executive Committee not later than five (5) days before the date set for the meeting.
SECTION 7. DUTIES OF OFFICERS.
A. PRESIDENT. The President shall:
1. Call Board of Directors, Executive Committee, and Chapter meetings or special meetings as requested by the Board of Directors and as required by these Bylaws.
2. Preside at all meetings of the Board of Directors, Executive Committee.
3. Make a report in writing at each meeting of the Board of Directors, Executive Committee, and Chapter.
4. Prepare and send to members of the Board of Directors an agenda for any meeting at least two (2) weeks prior to the meeting.
5. Serve as a Chapter Delegate to the House of Delegates of the Association.
6. Be official spokesperson for the Chapter.
7. Submit an annual budget for the office.
B. PRESIDENT ELECT. The President Elect shall:
1. Preside at all meetings of the Chapter in the event of the absence, resignation, or death of the President.
2. Support the President in fulfilling the goals and objectives of the Chapter.
3. Formulate future programs for his/her presidency.
C. VICE PRESIDENT. The Vice President shall:
1. Preside at all meetings of the Chapter in the event of the absence, resignation, or death of the President and the President Elect.
2. Serve as Board Liaison to all Committees except Nominating Committee and Finance Committee.
3. Assist the President in the discharge of his/her duties.
4. Make a report in writing at each meeting of the Board of Directors and at the annual meeting of the Chapter.
5. Submit an annual budget for the office.
D. SECRETARY. The Secretary shall:
1. Keep a record of all meetings of the Chapter Board of Directors, Executive Committee.
2. Maintain records of official correspondence of the Chapter.
3. Be responsible for and or delegate:
a. Giving notice of all meetings of the Chapter, Board of Directors, and Executive Committee.
b. Keeping an accurate roster of the officers and committee chairmen of the Districts.
c. Being custodian of records, books and papers belonging to the Chapter and of the Chapter’s Bylaws, Certificate of Incorporation and Seal.
d. Submitting an annual budget for the office.
e. Maintaining a current policy and procedure manual for the Chapter.
4. Coordinate all Chapter publications.
5. Serve as Board Liaison to the Chapter Special Interest Groups.
6. Provide an ongoing review of potential and actual candidates for elected and appointed APTA offices, and submit to the Chapter Board of Directors.
7. Review all Chapter component minutes submitted to the Chapter in a timely fashion.
E. TREASURER. The Treasurer shall:
1. Be responsible for having charge of all funds, which shall be paid out only upon orders of the Board of Directors of the Chapter.
2. Be responsible for keeping true and accurate accounts of all receipts and disbursements.
3. Report in writing at each Board of Directors meeting and at the Annual meeting of the Chapter.
4. Present books for audit on request of the Board of Directors.
5. Serve as chair of the Finance Committee.
6. Submit an annual budget for the office.
7. Be bonded.
F. DIRECTORS. The Directors shall:
1. Act as advisors to the Chapter’s officers and members.
2. Make a report in writing of district activities at each meeting of the Board of Directors and at the annual meeting of the Chapter.
3. Submit an annual budget for their office.
G. CHIEF DELEGATE. The Chief Delegate shall:
1. Attend all meetings of the House of Delegates of the Association.
2. Be responsible for the Chapter’s total voting delegation to the House of Delegates. Should a delegate not be represented at an annual session, all votes shall revert to the Chief Delegate of the Chapter.
3. Vote at the meeting of the House of Delegates or on voting sheets in accordance with policies of the Chapter.
4. Present to the House of Delegates such matters as are ordered by the Board of Directors and/or voting body of the Chapter.
5. Present material from the House of Delegates to the Board of Directors and voting body for their discussion, opinion and/or vote.
6. Call all special meetings deemed necessary at the annual meeting of the Association or other times as needed.
7. Notify the APTA of the names of the Chapters delegates each year.
8. Prepare Bylaw amendments as necessary.
H. MEMBER-AT-LARGE. The Member-at-Large shall:
1. Represent concerns of the District Directors to the Executive Committee.
2. Provide communication between the District Directors and the Executive Committee.
3. Serve as chair of the Awards Committee.
4. Arrange presentation of PPTA Awards issued through the Awards Committee.
5. Serve as Board Liaison to all task forces.
SECTION 8. LIMITATION OF PERSONAL LIABILITY.
A. A director of the Association shall, to the maximum extent permitted by the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, have no personal liability as such for monetary damages for any action taken, or any failure to take any action, on or after the adoption of this provision by the Members of the Association, unless the director has breached or failed to perform the duties of his or her office under Section 8363 of the Directors’ Liability Act (Act No. 145, November 28, 1986), or any subsequent Act of the legislature amending or modifying the said Act, and such breech or failure to perform constitutes self-dealing, willful misconduct or recklessness. Provided, however, that the foregoing provision shall not eliminate or limit the liability of a Director (i) for any responsibility or liability of such director pursuant to any criminal statute, or (ii) for any liability, State or Federal law.
B. This section may be modified or repealed only by vote of the Members of the Association, and no provision inconsistent with this provision may be adopted without the vote of the Members of the Association. Neither the repeal or modification of this section nor the adoption of any provision inconsistent herewith shall adversely affect any limitation on the personal liability of a director of the Association existing at the time of such repeal or modification or the adoption of such inconsistent provision.
C. This provision shall not eliminate the liability of a director in any case, in which such elimination is not permitted by law.
ARTICLE VIII. COMMITTEES AND TASK FORCES
SECTION 1. FINANCE COMMITTEE.
A. FUNCTIONS. The Finance Committee shall:
1. Advise the Board of Directors on matters pertaining to the Chapter’s financial needs, growth, and stability based on periodic review of income, expenditures, and investments.
2. Present an annual budget to the Board of Directors
B. STRUCTURE. The structure of the Finance Committee shall be:
1. The Chapter Treasurer, who serves as Chairman of the Committee.
2. The District Treasurers, who serve as members of the Committee.
C. TENURE. Each member of the committee shall serve for the duration of his/her term of office.
SECTION 2. ETHICS COMMITTEE.
A. FUNCTIONS. The Ethics Committee shall:
1. Educate the membership regarding ethical vs. unethical practices in physical therapy.
2. Educate the public regarding ethical vs. unethical practices in physical therapy.
3. Provide a visible presence for the membership, the public, the insurance industry and the legislature regarding our activities to prevent and curtail unethical practices in physical therapy.
4. Hear ethical complaints against members in accordance with APTA’s Procedural Document on Disciplinary Action.
B. STRUCTURE. The structure of the Ethics Committee shall be:
1. Four members appointed by the Board of Directors to carry on the routine business of the Committee.
2. If a hearing is required, it shall be conducted by the Chapter Ethics Committee, in accordance with APTA's Procedural Document on Disciplinary Action.
3. The Committee chair will attend Board of Directors meetings as an invited guest and as a non-voting member.
C. TENURE. The President appoints the Ethics Committee Chair and its members, in consultation with the Board of Directors, for a 3-year term.
D. ETHICS COMMITTEE MEETINGS. The meetings of the Ethics Committee shall be open to the general membership except when the Committee is investigating complaints or violations of ethical conduct.
SECTION 3. NOMINATING COMMITTEE.
A. COMPOSITION.
The Nominating Committee shall consist of a 1) nominating committee chair who is elected by the membership in a general election and 2) members who are comprised of members of the elected district nominating committee, one from each district.
B. TENURE.
1. The chair of the nominating committee shall serve a (3) three year term. The Chair may serve a second three (3) year term, but not consecutively with the first term.
2. The Nominating Committee Chair shall not serve on a District nominating committee while serving as Chapter Nominating Committee Chair.
C. DUTIES OF THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE.
The Nominating Committee shall:
1. Ensure the web page is updated and maintained
2. Assist with updating job descriptions of positions that are elected within the Chapter. This should be done at a minimum of every four months.
3. Assist the chair to submit articles for each newsletter in accordance with publication deadlines.
4. Prepare a slate of candidates for the Chapter elections. Each slate for the elected position should be composed of two (2) or more names, if possible. The Nominating committee needs to ensure that each candidate is eligible to serve in the office and has signed and submitted both the consent to serve form and the biography for posting.
a. The slate will be announced, confirmed and closed annually at each Chapter conference meeting.
b. Once the slate is completed, the Nominating Committee chair will submit the slate to the Chapter office for the election process
5. Assist the Chapter office in the tally of the votes. This should be completed one week from the end of the voting process. Once the votes have been confirmed, notify the candidates and the Board of Directors of the election. Formal notification of the membership regarding the election results should be communicated in the official chapter publication.
6. Assist in preparing a slate of candidates annually for APTA awards and honorary membership. Names will be submitted to the Chapter President according to deadlines established by APTA awards committee.
7. Prepare a slate of candidates for the Physical Therapist Assistant, Retired Physical Therapist Assistant, or Life Physical Therapist Assistant representative to the Physical Therapist Assistant Caucus (PTA Caucus). All Physical Therapist Assistant, Retired Physical Therapist Assistants, and Life Physical Therapist Assistant members are eligible to vote.
8. Assist the Awards Committee, which is comprised of the district directors, in soliciting and submitting names for nomination for all PPTA awards. The nominating committee should contact the district chairs one month prior to the deadline with any potential candidates.
9. Assist the Chief Delegate in preparing a list of potential and actual candidates for elected and appointed APTA offices. Complete NC-1 forms as appropriate.
D. RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE CHAIR.
- Initiate plans and make arrangements for meetings and/or conference calls.
- Conduct all committee meetings. An agenda shall be distributed to the members prior to the meeting to facilitate business.
- Prepare a summary report of each meeting that will be sent to the Executive Committee of PPTA and the Executive Director of PPTA within two weeks of the meeting. The executive director shall maintain the minutes at Chapter office.
- Ensure that a board report is submitted per schedule.
- Attend each board meeting or send a representative from the nominating Committee to the Board meetings.
- Notify all candidates of their nomination and provide biographical data forms and consent-to-serve forms to all candidates on the tentative slate by June 1.
- Submit candidate biographical data to the Executive Director for publication in the Fall Newsletter by the established deadlines for publication each calendar year.
- Present the prepared slate of chapter officers during the annual Chapter meeting and open the floor for further nominations. Officially close the slate of nominees at the Chapter meeting. All names will then be submitted for the election process.
- Remain as a mentor to the incoming chair for a period of one year in order to orient his/her successor(s) to the duties of the office.
E. ELECTION CYCLE:
1. The new Nominating Committee Chair will be elected from the general membership. The first election will be held by April 15, 2010. Subsequent elections will be held in conjunction with the election of the chapter Secretary.
2. District elections for committee members and nominating committee chairs will be held in accordance with district bylaws.
F. MEETINGS OF THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE. The meetings of the Nominating Committee shall be open to the general membership except for the discussion related to nominees for elected positions. Meetings need to be announced / published to allow members to attend as able.
SECTION 4. OTHER COMMITTEES. Apart from these committees, the Board of
Directors is authorized to create other committees to further the Goals and Objectives of
the Chapter.
SECTION 5. TASK FORCES. The Board of Directors may appoint task forces composed
of any members of the Chapter for the special purpose of completing a specific
assignment. The Board of Directors may authorize the appointment of the task force by
the President. Such appointments are subject to approval by the Board of Directors. Such
task force chairs may participate as invited guests at Board of Directors meetings by
debating and discussing relative to their report, but unless task force chairmen are
members of the Board of Directors they shall not have a right to vote. Task force
meetings are open to the general membership.
ARTICLE IX. DELEGATES TO THE ASSOCIATION HOUSE OF DELEGATES
SECTION 1. QUALIFICATIONS.
A. No member may be seated in the House of Delegates, unless he/she has been a member of the Association for the two (2) years immediately preceding and is currently a Physical Therapist member in good standing.
B. A Chapter delegate may not, in the same year, serve as a Section or Assembly delegate.
C. Chief Delegate
1. Shall be a Physical Therapist member of the APTA in good standing.
SECTION 2. SELECTION OR ELECTION.
A. The Chapter active delegates shall be:
1. Chapter President.
2. Chief Delegate
3. The additional Physical Therapist delegates, to which the Chapter is entitled, shall be apportioned by the Chapter Executive Director to the Districts on the basis of membership numbers. Each District shall be allocated at least one Physical Therapist delegate. All District Physical Therapist delegates shall be elected by a District-wide mail ballot by the qualified Physical Therapist, Life Physical Therapist, Retired Physical Therapist, Physical Therapist Assistant, Retired Physical Therapist Assistant, and Life Physical Therapist Assistant members in the district.
B. All delegates shall be selected by October 1 of the year preceding the term, except where persons who serve by virtue of their office have not yet been elected. These delegates shall be appointed as soon as their appropriate term of office begins.
C. The term of delegate shall be for two years. Terms of all delegates, except that of the Chief Delegate, shall be from October 1 (1st Year) to September 30 (2ndYear). Those terms met by virtue of office held shall coincide with their terms of office.
SECTION 3. DUTIES OF DELEGATES. All Delegates shall:
A. Attend all meetings of the House of Delegates and/or any special meetings called by the Chapter, while in attendance at the House of Delegates. The Chapter may schedule not more than one (1) meeting in the Spring prior to the House session, attendance at which shall also be required.
B. Vote at the meeting of the House of Delegates in the best interest of their constituents. Delegates are required to vote consistent with Chapter policy, but may not be charged to vote in a specific fashion on issues or candidates. All votes on motions before the House shall be recorded on vote tally sheets, which shall be filed with the Chapter office for a period of five (5) years and which shall be made available to members on request.
ARTICLE X. ELECTIONS
SECTION 1. SLATE OF CANDIDATES. The final slate of candidates for the open offices is to be submitted to the Chapter Executive Director by the Nominating Committee Chair after the Annual Chapter meeting.
SECTION 2. PREPARATION OF BALLOT.
A. Names of candidates for each office shall be in alphabetical order.
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B. A write in vote for an eligible member in good standing, consenting to serve, shall be valid.
C. Elections shall be held by either mail ballot, via electronic delivery of a ballot or by other electronic means that creates a record that may be retained and retrieved by the Chapter office and shall be completed within thirty (30) days from the close of the Annual Chapter Meeting. Elections shall be overseen by the Nominating Committee Chair in collaboration with the Executive Director. Ballots shall be sent to all Physical Therapist, Retired Physical Therapist, Life Physical Therapist, Physical Therapist Assistant, Retired Physical Therapist Assistant, and Life Physical Therapist Assistant members of the Chapter no later than ten (10) days after the Annual Chapter meeting Five percent (5%) of the ballots must be returned to validate the election. In lieu of electronic delivery, any member may request a paper ballot be mailed to them. Requests must be made verbally or in writing to the Executive Director within ten (10) days after the close of the Annual Conference and returned to the chapter office no later than twenty one (21) days after the postmarked date of the ballot.
SECTION 3. ELECTION RESULTS.
A. Officers shall be elected by a majority of votes cast, unless there are more than two (2) candidates for an office in which case the nominee for that office shall be elected by a plurality of the votes cast.
B. Election results shall be tabulated and the membership notified. In the event of a tie vote, the candidates will draw numbers from a hat with the lower number winning the election.
C. Officers shall be installed at the first meeting of the Board of Directors Meeting following the notice of the results of the election.
D. Election results shall be sent to APTA within 45 days.
ARTICLE XI. REPRESENTATIVE TO THE PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT CAUCUS (PTA CAUCUS)
SECTION 1. QUALIFICATIONS
A. The qualifications of the representative shall be as stated in APTA Board policies and procedures.
B. The chapter shall notify Association headquarters of the name of the Representative, as required by the Association.
SECTION 2. ELECTION AND TERM
The nominating committee of the chapter will solicit names of members of the chapter. The representative to the PTA Caucus from the chapter will be elected by mail ballot by the Physical Therapist Assistant, Retired Physical Therapist Assistant, and Life Physical Therapist Assistant members of the chapter. The Pennsylvania representative to the PTA Caucus shall be elected for a two-year term. The runner-up in the election shall serve as the alternate. The term becomes effective October 1.
SECTION 3. DUTIES OF THE REPRESENTATIVE
A. To attend the annual and special meetings of the PTA Caucus.
B. To present to the PTA Caucus such matters as are suggested by the Board of Directors, Executive Committee, or delegate assembly of the chapter.
C. To vote at meetings of the PTA Caucus in accordance with policies of the chapter.
ARTICLE XII. FINANCES
SECTION 1. FISCAL YEAR. The fiscal and budget years shall be from
January 1 to December 31.
SECTION 2. LIMITATIONS AND EXPENDITURES. No officer, employee, or committee shall expend any money not provided in the budget as adopted, or spend any money in excess of the budget allotment, except by order of the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors shall not commit the Chapter to any financial obligation in excess of its current financial resources.
SECTION 3. DUES.
A. The Chapter is responsible for funding the Chapter components according to Chapter policy. The allocation of monies to each Chapter component shall be determined by the Board of Directors of the Chapter.
B. The Chapter dues shall be:
1. Physical Therapist Member: One hundred forty dollars ($140.00) for twelve (12) months membership starting in 2004, with an increase of $5.00 starting in 2006 in each even year for the next 10 years.
2. Physical Therapist Assistant Member: One hundred dollars ($100.00) for twelve (12) months membership starting in 2004, with an increase of $5.00 starting in 2006 in each even year for the next 10 years.
3. Student Physical Therapist and Student Physical Therapist Assistant: Five dollars ($5.00) for twelve (12) months membership.
4. Physical Therapist - Post-Professional Student Member, who meets the qualifications as prescribed by the APTA Board of Directors: Fifty dollars ($50.00) for twelve (12) months membership.
5. Corresponding Members, who meet the qualifications as prescribed by the APTA Board of Directors: Seventy dollars ($70.00) for twelve (12) months membership starting in 2004 with an increase of $5.00 starting in 2006 and in each even year for the next 10 years.
6. Retired Physical Therapist Members, who meet the qualifications as prescribed by the APTA Board of Directors: Seventy dollars ($70.00) for twelve (12) months membership starting in 2004 with an increase of $5.00 starting in 2006 and in each even year for the next 10 years.
7. Retired Physical Therapist Assistant Members, who meet the criteria as prescribed by the APTA Board of Directors: Fifty dollars ($50.00) for twelve (12) months membership starting in 2004 with an increase of $5.00 starting in 2006 and in each even year for the next 10 years.
8. Life Physical Therapist Members and Life Physical Therapist Assistant Members of the chapter after 2004, who meet the qualifications as prescribed by the APTA Board of Directors: Twenty dollars ($20.00) for twelve (12) months membership starting in 2004 with an increase of $5.00 starting in 2006 and in each even year for the next 10 years.
C. Student Physical Therapist and student Physical Therapist Assistant member dues are for 12 months from the time of renewal or join date. As of the last day of the graduation month, the student Physical Therapist or student Physical Therapist Assistant member automatically converts to the Physical Therapist or Physical Therapist Assistant member category for the remainder of the 12 months of membership. Once the membership remainder expires, these new Physical Therapist and Physical Therapist Assistant members are eligible for one-year membership at 50% of the Association and Chapter dues rate for a Physical Therapist or Physical Therapist Assistant member.
SECTION 4. DUES CHANGE. All dues changes approved by the Chapter membership and approved by the Association's Board of Directors before the Association's deadline will become effective on the first of the Association’s next fiscal year.
SECTION 5. The Chapter shall submit its annual financial statements, tax returns and audit report to the Association when and as directed by APTA headquarters.
ARTICLE XIII. INDEMNIFICATION
SECTION 1. INDEMNIFICATION. The Association shall indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, including actions by or in the right of the Association, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative, by reason of the fact that such person is or was a director or officer of the Association, or, to the extent permitted by Pennsylvania law, is or was serving while a director or officer of the Association at the request of the Association as a director, officer, employee, agent, fiduciary or other representative of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise, against expenses (including attorneys’ fees), judgments, fines, excise taxes and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection with action, suit or proceeding, to the full extent permissible under Pennsylvania law.
SECTION 2. ADVANCEMENT OF EXPENSES. Reasonable expenses incurred by an officer or director of the Association in defending civil or criminal action, suit or proceeding described in Section 1 shall be paid by the Association in advance of the final disposition of such action, suit or proceeding upon receipt of an undertaking by or on behalf of such person to repay such amount of it shall ultimately be determined that the person is entitled to be indemnified by the Association.
SECTION 3. The indemnification and advancement of expenses provided by or pursuant to this Article shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which those seeking indemnification or advancement of expenses may be entitled under the Association’s Articles of Incorporation, any other agreement, vote of the shareholders or directors or otherwise, both as to actions in their official capacity and as to actions in another capacity while holding an office, and shall insure to the benefit of their heirs, executors and administrators of such persons.
SECTION 4. INSURANCE. The Association shall have the power to purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of any person who is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the Association, or is or was serving at the request of the Association as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise against any liability asserted against him and incurred by him in any such capacity, or arising out of his status as such, whether or not the Association would have the power to indemnify him against such liability under the provisions of these Bylaws.
SECTION 5. SECURITY FUND; INDEMNITY AGREEMENTS. By action by the Board of Directors (notwithstanding their interest in the transaction) the Association may create and fund a trust fund or fund of any nature, and may enter into agreements with its officers and directors, for the purpose of securing or insuring any manner its obligation to indemnify or advance expenses provided for this Article.
SECTION 6. MODIFICATION. The duties of the Association to indemnify and to advance expenses to a director or officer provided in this Article shall be in the nature of a contract between the Association and each such director or officer, and no amendment or repeal of any provision of this Article, and no amendment or termination of any trust or other fund created pursuant to Section 5, shall alter, to the detriment of such director or officer, the right of such person to the advance of expenses or indemnification related to a claim based on an act or failure to act, which took place prior to such amendment, repeal or termination.
SECTION 7. ACTS PRIOR TO ADOPTION OF THIS ARTICLE.
Indemnification for any action taken or failure to act occurring prior to the effective date of the adoption of this Article, shall be governed by Pennsylvania law as it existed prior to such date.
ARTICLE XIV. DISSOLUTION
The Chapter may dissolve subject to a recommendation to dissolve supported by no less than three-fourths of the members of the Board of Directors and adopted by a two-thirds vote of the Chapter membership. In the event of dissolution by APTA of the Chapter or voluntary dissolution of the Chapter and therefore of the Chapter components, all property and records of the Chapter and its components shall be turned over to the APTA in accordance with its Bylaws.
ARTICLE XV. PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITY
The rules contained in the current edition of Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly Revised shall govern the Chapter, and all components, in all cases to which they are applicable and in which they are not inconsistent with these bylaws and any special rules of order the Chapter may adopt.
ARTICLE XVI. AMENDMENTS
SECTION 1. PROCEDURE.
A. These Bylaws may be amended in whole or in part by a two-thirds vote of members at any regular Chapter meeting providing notice of the proposed amendment and its rationale has been sent to APTA headquarters within sixty (60) days after approval by the Chapter Executive Committee, and sent to all members at least thirty (30) days prior to the meeting.
B. When APTA Bylaws have been amended so as to require amendment of these Bylaws, the Chief Delegate shall prepare the necessary amendments. If the intent of an amendment is editorial or to bring the Chapter's bylaws into agreement with those of the Association, the amendment shall be made as required by the Chief Delegate and shared with the Executive Committee of the Chapter. The Chief Delegate shall notify the Chapter's membership that such amendments have been made no later than ninety (90) days after Executive Committee approval. Such amendments shall not require a vote of the Chapters members, but shall automatically be adopted upon approval by the Executive Committee of the Chapter. Such amendments shall be sent to all members and shall be read at the Chapter’s Annual Meeting.
SECTION 2. CONTENT. Revised or amended Bylaws shall be consistent with the Articles of Incorporation of this Chapter.
SECTION 3. Amendments to the Chapter Bylaws become effective upon approval in writing by the Association’s Board of Directors. (Exception: changes in Chapter dues become effective on the first of the Association’s next fiscal year following approval.)
ARTICLE XVII. ASSOCIATION AS HIGHER AUTHORITY
In addition to these Bylaws, the Chapter is governed by Association Bylaws and Standing Rules, and by the Association’s policies.
Revised and approved by the membership July, 1999
Revised and approved by the membership October 28, 2000
Revised and approved by the membership October 27, 2001
Revised and approved by the membership October 19, 2002
Revised and approved by the membership October 25, 2003
Revised and approved by the membership October 16, 2004
Amended and approved by the membership October 22, 2005
Approved and adopted by the PPTA Executive Board January 7, 2006
Revised and approved by the membership October 24, 2009
Reviewed and Approved by the APTA Board Committee to Review Component Documents on November 11, 2009
