NYFTTA By-Laws

BY- LAWS OF THE NEW YORK
FISHING TACKLE TRADE ASSOCIATION

ARTICLE I
Name
The New York Fishing Tackle Trade Association Inc.

ARTICLE II
Object

As businessmen and women, we need to protect our resources and work for a fair and equitable distribution, utilizing constructive economic conservation.

The intent of the New York Fishing Tackle Trade Association (NYFTTA) is to work with public officials and regulators regarding our recreational fisheries. We will continue to voice our concerns about any legislation affecting our business.

Our organization is the first in New York State that addresses fishery
management issues from the viewpoint of the recreational fishing trade.

The NYFTTA introduces into fisheries negotiation the recognition of an industry in addition to the presence of sportsmen.

It is especially important to promote the sport of recreational fishing to our youth. We have seen that fishing heightens awareness of our aquatic environment, especially among children.

Other issues this association will continue to address are beach and boat ramp access, promote recreational fishing through tourism as well as internal problems that may hinder our growth.

ARTICLE III

Members and Associates
Section 1. Members of the New York Fishing Tackle Trade
Association consists of retailers, wholesalers and manufactures involved in the fishing bait and/or tackle trade throughout New York with additional members accepted in all 50 states.

Amendment 1

Newly proposed members or associates, seeking full membership or associate membership to the NYFTTA, must be presented for approval to the board of directors of the NYFTTA. A simple majority vote is required for acceptance.
Full members or associates whose membership has lapsed in excess of one (1) membership year, will be considered a new member or associate and will required board approval for reinstatement. A simple majority vote is required for approval.

Amendment 2

Hence forth, proposed board members must be from businesses in retailing, wholesaling or manufacturing involved in the fishing bait and/or tackle trade throughout New York.

Section 2. Associates of the New York Fishing Tackle Trade
Association are those that have no direct involvement in the retail,
wholesale or manufacturing of fishing tackle. They shall have all the
obligations and privileges of membership except holding an office on the Board and having voting privileges.

Section 3. Honorary members are nominated by the board and approved by a simple majority vote and enjoy full membership privileges.

Membership businesses (Amends Article III , to add Section 4)

Member businesses will be represented to the NYFTTA by a voting delegate as per the member businesses discretion. Member businesses will pay annual dues to the association in an amount determined by the board of directors.

The association year will be June 1 through May 31 of the following year. Member businesses are considered in good standings if dues are paid by September 30 of the annual year.

Associates:

Associates will be represented to the NYFTTA by a nonvoting delegate as per the Associates members discretion . Associates to the NYFTTA will pay annual dues to the association in an amount determined by the board of directors. The association year will be June 1 through May 31 of the following year. Associates are considered in good standings if dues are paid by September 30 of the annual year.

Board of Directors: (Amends Article VI Section 5)

Each board member shall serve on at least one committee.

Removal of a member business, Director, Executive Director, Officer or Associate: (Amends Article VI Section 7, to include the following) Removal will occur in a closed executive session.
Any member failing to fulfill board and/or standing committee
responsibilities shall be subject to removal by action of the Board.
A determination of removal may occur if the member business owner(s) or representatives, associate members, Director, Officer or executive director of the NYFTTA in any form willfully hindered the good name of the NYFTTA or undermined or attempted to undermine the NYFTTA charter or have violated the bylaws of the NYFTTA. A determination of removal may occur if the member business owner(s) associate or representatives, director, Officer or executive director slanders any of the NYFTTA's directors.
A determination of removal may occur if the member, associate member, Director, Officer or executive director of the NYFTTA have been convicted of a severe New York State, county or Federal crime. A determination of removal may occur If a director, Officer or executive director fails to make 4 meeting per association year.

Resignation of directors: (Amends Article VI Section 9, to include the following) If a director resigns, the resignation may be in writing or verbally to the president of the board and accepted by the board.

ARTICLE IV

Officers
Section 1. President
a. Shall preside at all meetings of the Board.
b. Shall call Board meetings and shall prepare agenda for
such meetings
c. Shall be the Chief Executive Officer of the NYFTTA
d. Shall appoint all committee chairmen unless otherwise
provided
e. Shall perform such duties as may be assigned to him/her
by the Board
f. Must come from a business engaged in the fishing trade
g. The president will be an Ex-Officio of all committees
(except the nomination committee) With authority to make motions and vote

Section 2. Vice-President:
a. In case of absence or temporary disability of the President, shall perform the duties of that office and shall perform such other duties as may be assigned to him/her by the Board.
b. Shall chair a specific standing committee.

Amendment 3

The Creation of an executive board position, 2nd V.P.

Within one month of an election of the executive board, a 2nd Vice
presidents position will be appointed by the newly elected or reinstated President of the board.

A candidate will be proposed by the membership chairperson and presented to the president of the board for approval. Upon approval, appointment is granted subject to ratification by the Board of Directors a simple majority vote from the board is required.

The 2nd V.P. may not be from the same NYS county as the president of the board. The 2nd V.P. must be from a business in retailing, wholesaling or manufacturing involved in the fishing bait and/or tackle trade from New York State. The 2nd VP 's duties will be assigned to him or her from the president of the board. In the event the V.P. resigns, dies, or is no longer able to act, the The 2nd V.P. shall serve out the remainder of the term of the resigning or deceased officer and an interim 2nd VP will be appointed.

Section 3. Treasurer:
a. Shall have the care and custody of all funds and
securities of the NYFTTA
b. Shall deposit said funds in the name of the NYFTTA in
such bank or trust company that the members may elect
c. Shall submit an annual report of the finances of the
NYFTTA to the Board by the July meeting.
d. Must make a quarterly statement of accounts to the
Board
e. Must oversee the work of the bookkeeper and the
accountant
f. Shall sign all checks, drafts, notes and orders of
payment as stated in check policy
g. With the exception of routine operational expenses,
will be assigned to bring to the Board for approval expenses over $500.00
h. Shall ensure that an annual audit is conducted.

Amendment to article IV section 3 of the NYFTTA bylaws:
to include the following;

1 month following the annual meeting the treasurer will submit to the board a 1 year budget (6/1-5/31). A quorum being present and in executive session, the board, upon a 2/3 majority of voting members, may accept the budget.

The NYFTTA budget will include all estimated income from all sources and allot operating funds to all standing committees, including general operating funds. The general operating fund will be administered by the president of the board and the treasurer. Any expenses in the general operating budget exceeding $500.00 will require board approval. Simple majority vote is required from voting members.

After appropriations to a standing committee, without further approval from the board, the monies allotted to a committee may be disbursed upon written permission from the committee chairman, the treasurer and the president of the board. Written authorization is required and will be filed with the secretary and the treasurer.

In the event a budget is not accepted by the board a revised budget may be submitted by any director or the president of the board and the treasurer.

Newly revised budget are to be submitted by the following meeting. During executive session and a quorum being present the board will vote upon the budget.

Any funds obtained ,with the specific intentions to fund a particular
NYFTTA project, will be automatically allocated to the NYFTTA committee indicated and remain in this committee as a designated fund.

Amends ARTICLE IV Section 3g..In the event a budget has not been approved by the board, the committee chairman, the treasurer and the president of the board. May approve expenses up to $200.00 per committee activity without approval from the board. Written authorization is required and will be filed with the secretary and the treasurer. However any additional expenses will require board approval. a quorum being present, in executive session, the expenses are considered approved by a simple majority vote of
voting board members.

Ad hoc committees:

Funds will be allocated from the general fund to an Ad Hoc committee. The financial committee (comprised of the executive board; chaired by the treasurer) by A 2/3 approval vote is required to fund an ad hoc committee. Alternative funding may be accomplished by transfer of funds from a standing committee.

Transfer of funds between committees:

Transfer of funds will be allowed upon approval of the committee chairman, the Ad Hoc committee chairman, the treasurer and the President of the board. Written authorization is required and will be filed with the secretary and the treasurer.

Additional funds exceeding anticipated income will be allocated to the general fund.

Any committee chairman may request additional funds throughout the year (6/1-5/31.) Additional allocations from the general fund will be accepted upon approval from the financial committee. A simple majority vote of voting members is required.

The financial committee will be comprised of the Chairman/Treasurer, President, VP, 2nd VP and the Secretary. Henceforth, all committees will be comprised of a minimum of 3 board members, members or interested persons approved by the board unless otherwise indicated in these bylaws. Chairman of a committee must be from the board. Henceforth a committee quorum will be set at 3 board members, members or interested persons approved by the board unless otherwise indicated in these bylaws along with the Chairman of the committee. Sufficient notice is to be given to all financial committee members prior to a financial committee meeting.

The approved budget will be filed with the secretary, treasurer and be distributed to all board members. A copy of the budget will also be forwarded to the audit committee within the Sportsman Advisory Board.

The financial committee will determine the needs and negotiate any and all loans and or investments on behalf of the NYFTTA.

Funding priorities, for each committee, will be determined by the president of the board.

Deficits:
The priority of the treasurer, in case of a deficit, will be to address the shortage of funds in the following years budget.

The sportsman Advisory board will appoint, from within the SAB committee, a member to overseer the financial and ethical conduct of the NYFTTA board and membership.

A proposed candidate, after a quorum being set and after being seconded, will be voted (secret ballot) and approved by a simple majority vote. The overseer will be presented to the board at the following NYFTTA board meeting. Only ratification from within the SAB is needed for appointment.

The responsibility will included but not be limited to Auditing of the
NYFTTA treasurer books and NYFTTA records. All committees financial records and properties.

The overseer shall also report any misconduct of board members in
accordance with the NYFTTA bylaws, to the president of the board or to the judiciary chairman.

The overseer will witness all elections and verify results.

The overseer will report to the SAB chairman any discrepancies etc. and the chair will report directly to the president of NYFTTA or the judiciary chairman.

The overseer will make recommendations as needed and will report to the NYFTTA board semi annually.

The overseer will report to the president or judiciary chair any code
violations and make recommendations for removal of board or member businesses.

The overseer will report any financial misconduct directly to the proper authorities.

The overseer may form a Volunteer committee from within the SAC or (limited to 2 persons) from outside the organization to assist him/her without prior approval from the SAC or the board president. in order to carry out his/her responsibilities.

All chairman of the NYFTTA will allow The overseer to inspect, with out delay, any and all records requested in regard to the the committees fiscal responsibility or properties belonging to the NYFTTA.

The overseer may not be dismissed by board action and may be replace only upon resignation or a criminal or illegal activity. Dismissal may then be made from the SAC chairman or president of the board.

The overseers term will be for a period of two (2) years.

The overseer is considered an invited guest at all board meetings and
NYFTTA meetings. However will have no voting or membership privileges.

Section 4. Secretary/Correspondence Secretary/Receiving
Secretary:
a. Shall keep the minutes of all meetings of the Board
b. Shall conduct all correspondence pertaining to the
operation of the Board
c. Shall keep a correct list of the members of the Board,
shall be the keeper of the seal of the corporation, and shall affix such
seal and attest the signature of the President
d. Shall have care of such books and papers as the Board
may direct or Vice-President wherever required by law
e. Shall perform all the duties incidental to the office
of Secretary
f. Shall perform such other duties as may be required by
the Board.

Section 5. Elections:
Annual Meeting Election Process (Amends Article IV Section 5)

At the annual meeting/elections the following will be enacted and
supersedes the election process of the NYFTTA.

A slate of officers to include the President, Vice President, secretary,
Treasurer, Executive Director and any directors of the NYFTTA, whose term of office has expired, and is seeking re election will be presented by the membership Chairman to the board and the membership by the march meeting.
All candidates will then be on the ballot at the annual meeting in May.

Nominations from the floor will be accepted for directorship at the March meeting during the nomination process. After being seconded, members in good standing, in accordance with the bylaws of the association, will be placed on the ballot for the May elections ( the Membership committee is granted the license to interview the person and make a determination as to whether the candidate is suitable. The Membership chairman will inform the President of the Board, the board of director and the membership regarding its decision.)

Nominations from the floor will be accepted for the President, Vice
President, secretary, Treasurer or Executive Director. Nominations from the floor will be accepted at the annual meeting during the nomination process. After being seconded, members in good standing, and in accordance with the bylaws of the association will be placed on the ballot.

Voting

There will be two sessions for elections:

1st, Executive Session

During executive session and a quorum being present, each director will cast one vote for each candidate. During Executive session the chairman of the board will vote in case of a tie only, in accordance with "Roberts Rules Newly Revised." If no objections are raised (defined as a simple majority of voting members.) Only candidates receiving a simple majority of voting board members move on to the general membership ratification vote.

In the event there are three or more candidates for an officers position: If the executive session fails to have a majority vote (defined as a majority of voting members) for a candidate, a run off election will take place with the two top contenders.

Voting will be by secret ballot.

2nd, General membership Session

Ratification vote : A quorum present, member businesses, through a representative will vote.

Each member or honorary member will cast one vote for each candidate. A simple majority of voting members are needed for ratification. In case of a tie (Definition: non ratified vote: Equal yes and no votes for a candidate) or between two candidates for a Board seat the candidates fails.

In the case of The President, Vice President, Secretary or Treasurer
receiving a tie vote, The newly instated and remaining board will
collectively cast one vote to determine the outcome. A simple majority of voting members are required. This will occur at the first meeting held in June. Voting will be by secret ballot.

If a quorum is not present the current officers and or directors remain
until the next meeting. If a quorum is then present, an election will take place.

If a director fails to receive a majority vote in either session, removal
occurs. If a candidate for directorship fails to receive a majority vote
in either session the seat is denied to the candidate.

If an executive director or acting executive Director fail to receive a
majority vote in either session an acting executive director may be
appointed as per instructions(noted below).

In case of resignation, death or removal of an executive director a new executive Director may be proposed at any board meeting, as per instructions (noted below.) The appointment is as acting executive director until the May annual meeting following their appointment.

ARTICLE V

Meetings
Section 1. The Board will meet not less than four times per year.
Section 2. A special meeting of the Board may be called up
requested by four members of the Board to the President. Members must be notified at least one week prior to the meeting date.
Section 3. The annual meeting will be held in May. The calendar
year will run from the first day of June to the 31st day of May, of each and every year.

ARTICLE VI

Board of Directors
Section 1. The Board of Directors, hereafter known as the "Board"
will consist of the Executive Officers, Committee Chairmen, and At Large Directors appointed by the President. The Board will be comprised of persons of recreational fishing trade or related business.

Section 2.
Quorum: (Amends Article VI Section 2)

A Quorum is defined as 5 directors (that may include executive board members). Together with the president of the board
The executive board consists of The president, vice-president, 2nd
vice-president, secretary and treasure.

The Board, by a simple majority vote of those members present, a quorum having been set, shall have the power to enact legislation consistent with the By-Laws

Section 3. The Board is responsible for the election of the Officers. Amended to remove Section 3
Section 4. Board Members are expected to attend no less than four
Board meetings per year.
Section 5. Each board member shall serve on at least one
committee. Section 6. Procedure for renomination or
nomination of directors: (Amends Article IV Section 7)

Procedure for renomination or nomination of directors may occur at any meeting in accordance with the by laws of the association.. However All directors appointed during the course of the year will be considered acting directors (with full authority) until the annual meeting following their appointment. At which time their names will be placed on a ballot. The full term will be considered for two years following the annual meeting effective June 1st.

Membership to the Board is done at any board meeting. Once a candidate is proposed by any current Member and after being seconded, that agreement grants the Membership committee the license to interview the person and make a determination as to whether the candidate is suitable. The Membership chairman will inform the President of the Board, the board of director and the membership regarding its decision.

The Board will vote by secret ballot. If no objections are raised(defined as a simple majority of voting members.) The acting director will be invited to sit on the board.

During executive session and a quorum being present, each director will cast one vote for each candidate. During Executive session the chairman of the board will vote in case of a tie only, in accordance with "Roberts Rules Newly Revised." If no objections are raised (defined as a simple majority of voting members.)The candidate may then inform the Board as to his/her decision regarding acting directorship following that meeting. Voting will be by secret ballot.

Section 7. Removal of a member business, Director, Executive Director, Officer or Associate: (Amends Article VI Section 7, to include the following)

Procedure for Removal from the Board:
Any member failing to fulfill board and/or standing committee
responsibilities shall be subject to removal by action of the Board.

1. A written request shall be made to the membership committee by as least two board members
2. The membership committee shall acknowledge the receipt of removal request in writing within 10 days to the requesting board members
3. The membership committee shall advise the person(s) sought to be removed within ten days of receipt of request, in person (phone or personal contact) and in writing by registered mail
4. The person to be removed shall have the right to meet with the
membership committee to discuss the removal request within ten days of notification prior to the next Board meeting
5. If said request is initiated within 15 days prior to a Board meeting, it shall carry over to the next Board meeting
6. Upon completion of the above procedure, the following shall occur:
a. the findings and recommendations by the membership committee
shall be represented to the board at which time discussions will be held
b. the person who is sought to be removed shall be given the
opportunity to respond to the membership committee's findings and
recommendations at that time
c. upon completions of discussion, the board shall then vote by secret ballot upon the removal request
d. An individual will be removed from the board and /or standing committee if a majority of the quorum present at said meeting vote in favor of removal
7. If the person sought to be removed is a member of the membership committee, then an AD HOC committee, appointed by the President of the Board, shall assume the responsibilities of the membership committee.

Resignation of directors: (Amends Article VI Section 9, to include the following)

If a director resigns, the resignation may be in writing or verbally to the president of the board and accepted by the board.
Section 8. Term of Office: (Amends Article VI Section 8)

The President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and all directors are elected for a term of two years The full term will be considered for two years following the annual meeting effective June 1st.

The Executive Directors term is for a one year period, following the annual meeting effective June 1st. The Sportsman advisory Board
Chairman is for a period of one year following the annual meeting
effective June 1st.

The second Vice President is for a term of two years (following the annual meeting effective June 1st.)as per amendment three (3) of the association bylaws.

Section 9. In the event an officer resigns, dies, or is no longer
able to act, the President of the Board shall select a replacement, subject to ratification by the Board of Directors. Said replacement shall serve out the remainder of the term of the resigning or deceased officer.

ARTICLE VII

Committees
Section 1. Amends ARTICLE VII

Committees

Section 1. The Chairperson of each committee shall be appointed by the President subject to the approval of the Board. Each standing Committee shall consist of at least three members. The president of the board shall present to the board, annually at the June meeting, proposed chairman of each committee.

To include:
Henceforth, all committees will be comprised of a minimum of 3 board members, members or interested persons approved by the board (simple majority vote of voting members) unless otherwise indicated in these bylaws. Chairman of a committee must be from the board. Henceforth a committee quorum will be set at 3 board members, members or interested persons approved by the board unless otherwise indicated in these bylaws along with the Chairman of the committee. Appointment to a committee is the decision of the committee chairman. Unless indicated, committees will be comprised of, in whole or in part, of the committee chairman, president of the board (Ex-Officio of all committees) and the executive director
(will be by invite from the committee chairman and the president of the board or by instructions from the board.).

Section 2. A Fisheries Committee will determine fisheries policy
that best serves the recreational fishing trade throughout the marine
district of New York. It will consist of at least a majority of the Board of Directors.

Section 3. An Advisory Committee will consist of member businesses each to assist in a particular specie or species of fish.

Section 4. Fishermen for a Better Government Committee will
determine through surveys and/or investigations of candidates (incumbent or contend) for election/appointment of officials to federal, state or local government, who will carry out the ideology of the fishing tackle trade. This is a political action committee and will inform members of results.

Section 5. The Membership Committee shall be responsible for
recruitment, nomination, and orientation of new Board Members and
maintain the required minimum number of Board Members. It shall monitor attendance of all Board meetings, nominate a slate of candidates for officers of the Board and maintain a current list of Board member classifications and committee memberships. It will recommend to the Board removal of any Board Member who does not fulfill his/her Board responsibilities.
(Amends Article VII Section 5) In addition to the responsibilities
prescribed in the association bylaws, the membership Committee will act as, in time of elections, the nominating Committee. The membership chairman will also sever as judiciary chairman in determination of removal of an officer, director, member business, executive director or associate member.

Section 6. The Legal Committee shall be chaired by a Board member with a legal background. It will make recommendations to the Board and its committees on all matters involving legal issues. Insure by-laws are current and assist in the preparation of proposed by-law amendments. It will recommend to the full board a board member familiar with all by-laws who shall act in the capacity of Parliamentarian at all meetings. This member shall have a current copy of the by-laws available for use and inspection at all meetings.

Section 7. An Ad Hoc Committee is appointed by the President of
the Board, as such other committees as deemed necessary and advisable to complete special assignment. These committees shall function only so long as may be necessary.

Section 8. Finance/Fiscal Committee (Management of Investments)
consisting of the Board President, Treasurer and at least one other member to recommend, oversee, invest and manage the investment program of the NYFTTA. Committee will meet quarterly or under extenuating circumstances dictated by change in investment and /or funding requirements. An annual report to be made to the Board, detailing investment results and objectives for coming year. Treasurer to be trustee of fund checks, and otherwise deal with the investment companies. All investment transactions shall require signatures of both the Board President and the Treasurer .
(Amends Article VII Section 5, to add the following sections)

Section 9) Bylaws Committee
Section 10) Legislative Review Committee
Section 11) Tourism and Access Committee
Section 12) Sportfishing Education Center oversee Committee
Section 13) NYFTTA tournament Committee (NYFTTA Tournament Coordinator)
Section 14) Rod & Reel Loaner Program Committee
Section 15) Fundraising Committee/ Saleable mdse. Raffles
Section 16) Freshwater Advisory Committee
Section 17) Livery Station Enhancement Committee
Amends Article VII Section 5, to add the following sections)
Section 18) Reef Replenishment Committee
Section 19) Promotions/Show Committee
Section 20) Executive directors discretionary fund
Section 21) Atlantic Coast Fishing Tackle Trade Association Steering Committee
Section 22) Scouting Partnership Committee
Section 23) Community Involvement (Operation Holiday Spirit)

Amendment 4

The forming of a sportsmen advisory committee

Purpose:
In order for the board of directors, of the NYFTTA, to make the most informed decision regarding fisheries positions, NYFTTA will commission a panel of advisors from the recreational fishing sector.

The sportsmen advisory committee will consist of sportsman and or other interested parties interested in fisheries management. The committee will meet periodically to discuss issues relevant to NYFTTA and report back to the NYFTTA, through an elected chairperson.

The Sportsmen advisory committee personal will consist of between 5 and 13 invited members (committee members maybe invited to sit on the committee by any NYFTTA board member. Ratification from the board is required.) and will elect, from within the committee, a candidate for chairperson. The candidate will be presented to the NYFTTA Membership chairman for approval. The membership chairperson will then present the candidate to the NYFTTA board for ratification. Simple majority vote is required.

The Sportsmen advisory committee Chairperson will hold this position for a one year term. Board ratification will be needed to continue as chairperson or a new Sportsmen advisory committee chairperson will be presented.

The Sportsmen advisory committee chairperson will have a seat on the NYFTTA board of directors for the period of his/her term. Sportsmen advisory committee chairperson will be considered an honorary member with full membership privileges for the period of his/her term.

Sportsman Advisory Committee: (Amends, Amendment 4, to include the following)

Henceforth, the responsibilities of the Sportsman Advisory Committee will be expanded as per instructions from the NYFTTA board of directors. (Note: Through ratification from the board, the SAC will oversee the Sportfishing Education Center. Authority will be as needed and only report to the board its decisions)

The Sportsman Advisory Committee chairman will determine the eligibility of any proposed candidates to the The Sportsman Advisory Committee. A simple majority vote from the Sportsman Advisory Committeemen will be needed for ratification. Upon approval the selection will be forwarded to the NYFTTA board for approval.

Removal of Sportsman Advisory Committeemen may occur through the ratification process of the NYFTTA board without approval from the committee or from within the committee through the ratification process without approval from the NYFTTA board.

The Sportsman Advisory Committee chairman may expand the committee past the agreed 13 members by the approval from the committee . A quorum being present, hence forth determined as five committee persons and the chairman agree by simple majority vote, approve to accept additional committeemen.
The proposal must then be approved by the NYFTTA board by a simple majority vote.

The Chairman will appoint a Sportsman Advisory Committee secretary. The secretary will forwarded the minutes of all meetings to the president of the NYFTTA board within 15 days of any meetings.

The Sportsman Advisory Committee chairman may appoint delegates from within the committee to represent the Sportsman Advisory Committee as needed.

The Sportsman Advisory Committee will abide by the NYFTTA bylaws in determining procedures within the committee.

The Sportsman Advisory Committee chairman may appoint a committee treasurer. The Sportsman Advisory Committee treasurer may charge a fee to Sportsman Advisory Committee personal. The Sportsman Advisory Committee treasurer may request funds for NYFTTA board ratified functions or for specified projects, determined by the committee, and ratified by the NYFTTA
board.

The Sportsman Advisory Committee treasure will be responsible under the NYFTTA bylaws and report directly to the NYFTTA treasure.

The Sportsman Advisory Committee treasure will complete a request for funds, if needed, and make a written report to the NYFTTA treasurer on a monthly basis.

Addendum to amendment 4:
the Sportsman Advisory Committee (SAC) To include the following:

Henceforth the Sportsman Advisory Committee members term will be for a period of 2 Years. The full term will be considered for two years following the annual meeting effective June 1st All Committee members elected during the course of the year will be considered acting Committee members (with full authority) His/Her term will commence on the first day of the month following the annual meeting.

All new committee members will be accepted through the
ratification/nomination process establish in Amendment 4

Reelection to the SAC:
Any committee member seeking reelection to the SAC will submit His/Her name to the chairman of the committee. At which time their names will be placed on a ballot and voted on by the NYFTTA board and membership during the annual meeting. The chairman may present the committee members as one slate (the board/membership will vote on all as one) or individually (the Board/membership will vote on each candidate individually.)

Note:

The current committee members term is effective 6/1/99 and will expire 5/31/2001:

ARTICLE VIII

Parliamentary Authority
The rules contained in the current edition of Robert's Rules of
Order Newly Revised shall govern the Association in all respects that are not in conflict with these bylaws and any special rules of order that the association may adopt.

ARTICLE IX

Amendment of Bylaws
If the need arises to amend these bylaws, an Ad Hoc Committee will
be formed to study the proposed changes. Its recommendations will be reported at an Executive Board meeting of the Association. At a
following meeting, the Board may approve these changes by a two-thirds vote. Proposed amendments must be distributed in writing to each Board member no less than ten days prior to the vote.

ARTICLE X

Check Policy
Section 1. All checks under $250.00 require the signature of the
Treasurer and one other officer.
Section 2. Checks over $250.00 require the signature of the Treasurer and the President.

ARTICLE XI

Appointment of an acting executive director.
(Amendment to add Article XI )

At the boards discretion, an executive director may be elected for a period of one year. The term of office will be effective June 1st following the annual meeting.
A candidate will be presented by the membership/nominating committee to the board by the march meeting.

The executive director :
1) will be a paid or non paid position as determined by the board.
2) May be an ex-officio member on any or all committees. Ex-oficio
membership will be by invite from the committee chairman and the president of the board or by instructions from the board. The executive director will have authority to make motions and vote. however his/her presence will not constitute a member for a quorum .
3) Will have authority to represent the NYFTTA in lieu of the president or Vice president of the board at meetings and functions relevant to the business of the NYFTTA.
4) Will carry out all mandates and positions as per instructions from the NYFTTA board or president of the board, in accordance with the bylaws of the association.
5) Will assist, in part, in carrying out the day to day business of the
NYFTTA.
6) Will have a vote on the board, however his/her presence does not
constitute a member for a quorum.

This action is in effect immediately. The acting executive directors name will then be forwarded to the membership chairman and his/her name will be placed on the ballot in may; at the annual meeting. At that time The newly elected executive directors term will be a period of one year following the annual meeting effective June 1st.

This amendment is effective immediately and does not alter the elections or appointments prior to this date.

ARTICLE XII

Past President: ( Amendment, to add Article XII)

The past president of the board , being in good standing, will retain a
board seat for a period of one year, following the annual meeting effective June 1st.. The ad hoc committee, to be chaired, is to function as a transition committee. The Chairman will familiarize the newly elected officers with all committees, there functions, assist in setting agendas, reviewing positions and bylaws of NYFTTA. Such other duties will included however not be limited to, introducing the newly elected officials of the NYFTTA to the governmental and association representatives. The Chairman of the transition committee will also serve as advisor to the newly elected executive board.

Amendments to the Bylaws of the NYFTTA

Amendment 1

Newly proposed members or associates, seeking full membership or associate membership to the NYFTTA, must be presented for approval to the board of directors of the NYFTTA. A simple majority vote is required for acceptance.
Full members or associates whose membership has lapsed in excess of one (1) membership year, will be considered a new member or associate and will required board approval for reinstatement. A simple majority vote is required for approval.

Amendment 2

Hence forth, proposed board members must be from businesses in retailing, wholesaling or manufacturing involved in the fishing bait and/or tackle trade throughout New York.

Accepted 7/14/98, directors meeting

Amendment to the bylaws NYFTTA Accepted 8/11/98

Amendment 4

The forming of a sportsmen advisory committee

Purpose:
In order for the board of directors, of the NYFTTA, to make the most informed decision regarding fisheries positions, NYFTTA will commission a panel of advisors from the recreational fishing sector.

The sportsmen advisory committee will consist of sportsman and or other interested parties interested in fisheries management. The committee will meet periodically to discuss issues relevant to NYFTTA and report back to the NYFTTA, through an elected chairperson.

The Sportsmen advisory committee personal will consist of between 5 and 13 invited members (committee members maybe invited to sit on the committee by any NYFTTA board member. Ratification from the board is required.) and will elect, from within the committee, a candidate for chairperson. The candidate will be presented to the NYFTTA Membership chairman for approval. The membership chairperson will then present the candidate to the NYFTTA board for ratification. Simple majority vote is required.

The Sportsmen advisory committee Chairperson will hold this position for a one year term. Board ratification will be needed to continue as chairperson or a new Sportsmen advisory committee chairperson will be presented.

The Sportsmen advisory committee chairperson will have a seat on the NYFTTA board of directors for the period of his/her term. Sportsmen advisory committee chairperson will be considered an honorary member with full membership privileges for the period of his/her term.

Memo of Addition to ByLaws
Procedure for Removal from the Board:

Any member failing to fulfill board and/or standing committee
responsibilities shall be subject to removal by action of the Board.

1. A written request shall be made to the membership committee by as least two board members
2. The membership committee shall acknowledge the receipt of removal request in writing within 10 days to the requesting board members
3. The membership committee shall advise the person(s) sought to be removed within ten days of receipt of request, in person (phone or personal contact) and in writing by registered mail
4. The person to be removed shall have the right to meet with the
membership committee to discuss the removal request within ten days of notification prior to the next Board meeting
5. If said request is initiated within 15 days prior to a Board meeting, it shall carry over to the next Board meeting
6. Upon completion of the above procedure, the following shall occur:
a. The findings and recommendations by the membership committee
shall be represented to the board at which time discussions will be held
b. The person who is sought to be removed shall be given the
opportunity to respond to the membership committee's findings and
recommendations at that time
c. Upon completions of discussion, the board shall then vote by secret ballot upon the removal request
d. An individual will be removed from the board and /or standing committee if a majority of the quorum present at said meeting vote in favor of removal
7. If the person sought to be removed is a member of the membership committee, then an AD HOC committee, appointed by the President of the Board, shall assume the responsibilities of the membership committee.

Important motions:

Motion

In order to secure grants for NYFTTA, I so move, that the president and CEO of the board be fully authorized to carry out, as he see's fit, to negotiate and hire on behalf of this organization, the personal needed to accomplish the procurement of grants for NYFTTA projects. (The procurement of grants will pay a fee of up to 11% of the grant obtained.) I also move that a grant commission be formed. This commission to include the president (and CEO) of NYFTTA, the executive director, the treasurer (who as per our bylaws is required to oversee and be held responsible for all of the finances of NYFTTA) and one board member (appointed by the president) to administer all grants. A fee from all grants of 10% of the grant obtained will be allocated to this commission for administrative/ business development and salaries.

The NYFTTA commission will oversee all grant disbursements to all
committees and designated funds. .All designated funds and NYFTTA committees within NYFTTA will receive grant monies, less the finders fee paid and less the commissions fee. Also all designated funds and or NYFTTA committees receiving grant monies will abided by the stipulations, filling requirements and legalities, associated with all grants received.

4/11/00

Proposal to amend the bylaws of the NYFTTA

To Amend Article IV Section 3 of the NYFTTA bylaws:
To take effect immediately:

Any funds obtained ,with the specific intentions to fund a particular
NYFTTA project, will be automatically allocated to the NYFTTA committee indicated and remain in this committee as a designated fund.

To include:
However, any and all fundraising activities for a designated fund will
forfeit 1/3 of the net proceeds to the NYFTTA general treasury. Such proceeds will then be dispensed according to the NYFTTA bylaws.

Proposal to amend the bylaws of the NYFTTA

To amend Article VI Section 3
Effective Immediately

To remove:
The Board is responsible for the election of the Officers.

Passed 10/10/00

11/21/00

As per instructions from the president of the board:
The NYFTTA has agreed to participant with Suffolk County
Legislators/government to host and support the Massachusetts base
organization "Casting For Recovery." NYFTTA requested $20,000.00 to host "Casting For Recovery." The $20,000.00 secured by Suffolk County Legislator Ginny Fields will be used to host two clinics in 2001. (See Brochure and Newsday article)

Proposal: D

The NYFTTA will participate in the "Casting for Recovery" by:
1) Offering the Sport Fishing education Center as a permanent Long Island chapter base for "Casting For Recovery"
2) Commit an additional $5,000.00 in cash, MDSE, fund raising
participation, lobbying efforts (resulting in funding) or in-kind services
for "Casting For recovery"
3) To appoint a delegate to maintain contact with "Casting For Recovery."
The delegate, appointed by the president of the board, will negotiate on behalf of NYFTTA and provide "Casting For Recovery" with assistance to promote there endeavors on Long Island and in New York State. However, final commitments, contracts and/or agreements will require ratification from the NYFTTA board. (all contracts/agreements will require legal review and be accepted by the legal committee chairman before ratification from the NYFTTA board)

Proposal D Passed 11/21/00

Proposal: A

The NYFTTA will meet a minimum of the following:
3 Directors meetings -March (Nominations), June(Budget/Appointments),
December(Calendar year/end Business)
1 Annual Meeting -May
1 Ex board meeting -October
other meetings may be called in accordance with the NYFTTA bylaws
........"Section 2. A special meeting of the Board may be called up
requested by four members of the Board to the President. Members must be notified at least one week prior to the meeting date. Or at the desire of the President of the Association. "ARTICLE IV Section 1. President .
b. Shall call Board meetings and shall prepare agenda for such meetings"

Committees are to work independently and within the boundaries of the NYFTTA bylaws in accordance with the positions of NYFTTA and under direction of the president/CEO and funded thru the budgetary/ratification process of NYFTTA.

Note:
All committees are to meet a minimum of once an association year and report to the president of NYFTTA or his/her representative. The report is to included an overall determination of the committees objectives and update on the committees accomplishments. This is to include fundraising needs and future requirements of the committee. The committees obligated to report on an annual basis are:
1 Fisherman For a Better Government Committee (PAC)
2 Tourism and Access
3 Reef Replenishment Project
4 Promotions & show Committee
5 Membership Committee
6 Fundraising Committee
7 Livery Station Enhancement Committee
8 Scouting Partnership Committee
9 Operation Holiday Spirit
10 Sportsman Advisory Committee
11 Atlantic Coast Fishing Tackle Trade Association Steering Committee
12 NYFTTA Contest Committee
13 NYFTTA Advisory Committee
14 Legislative Review
15 Fishing Regulation Committee
16 Legal Committee/Legal defense funding
17 Tourism and Access Committee
18 Sport Fishing Education Steering Committee
19 Activities and Promotions (Rod & Reel Loaner Programs)
20 All NYFTTA delegates and advisors

Proposal: B
The NYFTTA bylaws state that " A determination of removal may occur If a director, Officer or executive director fails to make 4 meeting per association year." (a minimum of 4 meeting per year are required for directors) . However the proposal shall include ....authorized NYFTTA functions will be considered valid meetings, and will fulfill the directors requirements as a meeting attended.

Proposal: C
Since the Reef Committee and the Sportsmans Advisory Committee (SAC) are "designated funds", I also propose that the SAC bank account be used to hold all Reef Committee funds along with the SAC funds.

.........As per amendment 10/10/00, ...."any and all fundraising activities for a designated fund will forfeit 1/3 of the net proceeds to the NYFTTA general treasury. Such proceeds will then be dispensed according to the NYFTTA bylaws."... These funds are then to be distributed to committees as per the budgetary process.

Proposal A,B,C Passed 11/21/00

Proposal: E

The NYFTTA will initiate the hiring of a Great South Bay (GSB) Bay Keeper.

The GSB Bay keepers responsibilities will include, in part, the following:
Along with the acceptable definition and responsibilities set forth by the national standard, this position will encompass the environm
ental review of the GSB . The position will also encompass
responsibilities of participating in fundraising, maintaining contacts with the environmental community and businesses with interest involved in the Marine resource, when necessary to litigate offenders of the marine resource, to initiate and follow up on water quality testing and maintaining an acceptable standard of the marine waters of the GSB. To investigate and respond to marine environmental conditions that have sub standardized the GSB. To maintain a dialog with media. To maintain a dialog with governmental oversee agencies. The GSB Bay keeper will be stationed at the Sport Fishing Education Center in Babylon and an annual report will be submitted to the NYFTTA board.

The NYFTTA/SAC will initiate contacts with all organizations, entities and interested persons involved in the recreational and commercial fishing sectors to jointly support this project. The NYFTTA delegate, appointed by the president of NYFTTA, will have authority to represent the NYFTTA in all negotiations. However, final commitments, contracts and/or agreements will
require ratification from the NYFTTA board. (all contracts/ agreements will require legal review and be accepted by the legal chairman before ratification from the NYFTTA board)

The NYFTTA will commit $5,000.00 (Five Thousand Dollars) in in-kind services, cash, MDSE., lobbying efforts (resulting in funding) or fundraising participation to assist in the hiring of a GSB Bay keeper.

Proposal E Withdrawn 11/21/00

"A vote of confidence to maintain nyftta as a party to the action in the
lawsuit in conjunction withRFA against the NMFS regarding the yellowfin tuna restrictions and for the nyftta to solisit funds for the legal defense."

Approved 12/19/2000