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Proposal Details

Proposal ID	372
Proposal	Fiscal Policy of the Green Party of the United States
Presenter	Bylaws, Rules, Policies Procedures BRPP
Floor Manager	Holly Hart
Phase	Closed
Discussion	11/30/2008 - 12/21/2008
Voting	12/22/2008 - 12/28/2008
Result	Failed
Presens Quorum	34 0.6666
Consens Quorum	89 0.6666 of Yes and No Votes

Background

To repeal those sections of the Party's Rules and Procedures related to the
Party's Fiscal Policy; to adopt a new governing document of the Party to be
entitled Fiscal Policy of the Green Party of the United States; to
incorporate within such policy, the Donors' Bill of Rights and rules related
to the State Sharing program, as previously adopted by the National
Committee; to conform the policies related to the Party's Merchandise
program with existing practices of the Merchandise Committee; to provide for
the acceptance and handling of Endowed Funds by the Party; to increase the
Steering Committee discretionary borrowing authority; to define and
safeguard Restricted Funds; to require that any Restricted Fund established
by the National Committee must be governed by a written Mission Statement;
to provide for Restricted Funds for each Caucus, for the Ballot Access
Committee and for the International Committee; to require that Restricted
Funds be deposited into a Reserve Account; to provide for notice and rules
governing loans made from the Reserve Account to meet General Fund
obligations; to prioritize the expenditure of General Fund monies to meet
legal and contractural obligations of the Party and those expenses necessary
to the day-to-day operations of the Party; to require the production of a
monthly cash flow projection for income and expenses as a part of the annual
budget process; to require the clear inclusion for projections for overall
income and expenses associated with the Annual National Meeting as a part of
the Annual Budget; and to require the support of a two-third majority of the
Steering Committee to report a proposed Annual Budget to the National
Committee.

Proposal

Section 1.

Resolved, that the following Fiscal Policy of the Green Party of the
United States (GPUS) is hereby adopted as a distinct document to govern
the fiscal practices of the Party and to become one of the Governing
Documents.

The Fiscal Policy of the Green Party of the United States

ARTICLE 1 PURPOSE AND APPLICABILITY

Section 1-1 Purpose

1-1.1 This Fiscal Policy is intended to make possible a higher level of
Green political activity, while safeguarding the independence of the
Green Party of the United States (GPUS), the autonomy of its member
state parties, and the accountability of its political and fiscal
officers.

Section 1-2 Applicability

1-2.1 This Fiscal Policy supersedes any conflicting provision of the
Rules, Polices and Procedures of any committee, caucus, and/or network.

ARTICLE II INCOME

Section 2-1 Contributions from Individuals

2-1.1 Contributions from individuals will be accepted in amounts as
permitted by law. All excess contributions will be returned. Each
individual contribution shall be reported as required by the Federal
Elections Campaign Act, as such may be amended from time to time.

Section 2-2 Contributions from Organizations

2-2.1 In keeping with the Federal Election Commission regulations that
prohibit such contributions, no contributions will be accepted from any
corporation, union or bank, including non-profit corporation and
not-for-profit corporation.

2-2.2 No contribution will be accepted from a Political Action
Committee without the express authorization of the National Committee,
even though otherwise authorized under Federal law.

2-2.3 Grants or contributions from foundations or other non-profit
organizations will be accepted up to a limit of $2000 per year per
granter.

2-2.4 Financial or in-kind contributions from individuals who own or
operate businesses, sole proprietorships, partnerships, or
not-for-profit limited liability partnerships are allowed. However, if
the person’s business, proprietorship, or partnership is incorporated,
the contribution must come directly from the person rather than through
her/his business, proprietorship, or partnership.

Section 2-3 Reporting of Income

2-3.1 The Treasurer’s annual report to the National Committee shall
include the most recent Federal Election Commission report which is
viewable in the public domain and includes details on contributions.

ARTICLE III LOANS

Section 3-1 Reasons for Loans

3-1.1 The GPUS may take out loans to cover emergencies, sudden,
unexpected expenses, or seed funds for special projects.

Section 3-2 Approval

3-2.1 Loans other than those from the Reserve Account and not exceeding
a cumulative $5,000 or 1% of the Annual Budget, whichever is greater,
may be executed upon publication of minutes documenting the support of
a simple majority of the Steering Committee, and including their
findings that the loan they made complies with 3-1.1, and including the
loan’s source, amount, terms, and purposes and a plan and time line to
repay it. Loans in excess of this cap require the support of a simple
majority of the National Committee voting to adopt a resolution
authorizing the obligation, and to make the same findings and provide
the same information about the loan as required by one approved by the
Steering Committee.

Section 3-3 Reporting

3-3.1 Whether authorized by the Steering Committee or the National
Committee, all proposals to borrow in any amount must be reported to
the National Committee prior to the final execution of any loan
agreement and must include the loan’s source, amount, terms, and
purposes and a plan and time line to repay each such loan.

3-3.2 Any such loan agreement, other than those from the Reserve
Account, must be signed by the Treasurer and at least one other member
of the Steering Committee, on behalf of the GPUS.

3-3.3 Loan proceeds will be deposited in the General Operating Account.
The Treasurer's Annual Report to the National Committee shall include a
full report on the status of all outstanding loans.

ARTICLE IV INVESTMENTS

4-1 Investments

Funds may not be placed in any instrument whatsoever other than such
bank accounts as may from time to time be designated by the Steering
Committee as an authorized depository for Party funds, without the
express, advance, and specific authorization of the National Committee,
except for funds that are specifically contributed to be Endowed Funds.

4-2 Endowed Funds

4-2.1 The GPUS may accept Endowed Funds to be invested in long-term
instruments. Endowed Funds shall be managed so that the principal of
any endowed funds is preserved to support the GPUS in perpetuity, while
also providing that the income (dividends, interest or otherwise) be
exclusively used for operational expenses as defined in Article 9,
Section 2, except as may have been otherwise directed by the donor.

4-2.2 The funds collected will be committed to investments that are in
compliance with the aims and goals of the GPUS and honor the intent of
the Ten Key Values of the GPUS. Recommendations by individuals may be
made to the Treasurer and the Finance Committee, who will make
recommendations to the Steering Committee. The Steering Committee will
seek recommendations from qualified investment professionals and
propose recommendations to the National Committee, which shall exercise
authority over such investments. The Treasurer and Steering Committee
will review these investments at least annually and the Treasurer will
make their report to the National Committee as a part of the proposed
Annual Budget. The Steering Committee, on the recommendation of the
Treasurer or the Finance Committee, may act to protect the assets of
the GPUS by transferring such endowed funds to insured instruments when
market trends warrant such action.

4-2.3 The Finance Committee shall on an annual basis submit a report to
the National Committee for each endowment made to the GPUS on the
original, historical and current market value of each such fund, the
income from interest, dividends or other sources derived from each such
endowment in the preceding fiscal year, and its recommendation for the
reinvestment or expenditure of such revenues in the upcoming budget
cycle. In making such recommendations, the Finance Committee is urged
to weigh the impact of inflation on the value of each endowment against
the opportunity to fund current operations.

4-2.4 Sums to be drawn from Endowed Funds shall be as authorized by the
Annual Budget, but may be drawn in installments at the discretion of
the Treasurer.

ARTICLE V FUNDRAISING POLICY

5-1 Responsibility

5-1.1 The Fundraising Committee is the committee primarily responsible
for directing the raising of funds for the operation of the GPUS.

5-2 Planning and Reporting

5-2.1 Each accredited caucus, committee and network that intends to
engage in fundraising will create an annual fundraising plan and
provide a copy to the Fundraising Committee.

5-2.2 Whether fundraising is done jointly or solely there shall be
coordination with the Treasurer or designee (i.e. the Accountant,
and/or the operations, fundraising, or political directors) for the
completion of the necessary record keeping, the filing of any required
reports and the deposit of all monies being generated from the
fundraising efforts. In addition there shall be an accounting of all
monies expended in the fundraising efforts and in the operations
following the fundraising efforts.

5-2.3 The Treasurer or designee shall provide each Treasurer (or other
suitable officer) of each accredited caucus, committee, and network the
requisite financial forms, either in hard copy or electronic format, to
carry out their duties.

5-2-4 The Treasurer or designee shall provide, on a monthly basis, each
Treasurer of each accredited caucus, committee, and network statements
reflecting all monies deposited and spent.

5-2.5 Each accredited caucus, committee and network shall provide to
the Treasurer or designee a working budget for each fundraising event.
At a minimum the following will be provided to the Treasurer or
designee: date of event, type of event, purpose of event, projected
start-up costs, and receipts expected.

5-2.6 Each member state party participating in collaborative
fundraising efforts with the GPUS shall provide the same information as
required by Article 5, Section 2, Paragraph 2. The Treasurer or
designee shall provide copies of all appropriate documents to the
Steering Committee, the Finance Committee, and the Fundraising
Committee upon request or when appropriate.

5-3 Donors Bill of Rights

Donors to the GPUS shall have the right to:

5-3.1 Be informed of the GPUS' mission, of the way the GPUS intends to
use donated resources, and of its capacity to use donations effectively
for their intended purposes.

5-3.2 Be informed of the identity of those serving on the National
Committee and to expect the National Committee to exercise prudent
judgment in its stewardship responsibilities.

5-3.3 Have access to the GPUS' most recent financial statements.

5-3.4 Be assured their donations will be used for the purposes for
which they were given.

5-3.5 Receive appropriate acknowledgment and recognition.

5-3.6 Be assured that information about their donation is handled with
respect and with confidentiality to the extent provided by the law.

5-3.7 Expect that all relationships with individuals representing the
GPUS with the donor will be professional in nature.

5-3.8 Be informed whether those seeking donations are volunteers,
employees of GPUS or hired solicitors.

5-3.9 Feel free to ask questions when making a donation and to receive
prompt, truthful and forthright answers.

5-4. Sustainers

Individuals may become Sustainers of the GPUS as defined in the Bylaws,
according to procedures established by the National Committee.
Sustainers shall receive Party publications and other benefits as
determined from time to time by the National Committee. Members of
state Green Parties shall be actively encouraged to become Sustainers
of the GPUS.

ARTICLE VI RESTRICTED FUNDS

Section 6-1 Purpose

6-1.1 Restricted Funds shall exist for the following purposes, to:

6-1.1(a) Provide a funding mechanism for specific purposes as
established by the National Committee;

6-1.1(b) Enable donors to specify that all or a part their contribution
goes directly to a particular Restricted Fund;

6-1.1(c) Provide an opportunity for committees and caucuses to
fundraise for projects and expenses authorized consistent with their
purpose; and

6-1.3(d) Provide a more protected status for Restricted Funds within
the budget process.

Section 6-2 Establishment

6-2.1 Restricted Funds may be established by the National Committee.

6-2.2 Every Restricted Fund shall have a Mission Statement describing
the purposes for which the fund is established, and this must be
approved by the National Committee before the fund is considered
established.

6-2.3 Restricted Funds may be funded through the GPUS budgetary process
and/or through collaborative and/or individual fundraising by the GPUS
and/or the specific state, committee or caucus associated with each
Restricted Fund, and/or through donations made to that Restricted Fund.
Each Restricted Fund shall be considered the repository of such funds
raised for it.

Section 6-3 Restricted Funds

The following Restricted Funds are established by the National
Committee and have their Mission Statements approved:

6-3.1 State Sharing

6-3.1(a) Mission: The State Sharing Restricted Fund is established to
fund the State Sharing Program as defined in Article VII.

6-3.2 Ballot Access

6-3.2(a) Mission: The Ballot Access Restricted Fund is established to
fund obtaining Green Party ballot status on a state-by-state basis and
ballot access for the GPUS Presidential and Vice-Presidential
candidates.

6-3.3 Caucuses

6-3.3(a) Mission: The Caucuses Restricted Fund is established to fund
development and outreach work of Accredited Caucuses.

6-3.4 International Committee

6-3.4(a) Mission: The International Committee Restricted Fund is
established to fund representation at international Green Party
meetings at which the GPUS is a voting member, including sending as
many delegates as the GPUS is entitled to at meetings of Federation of
the Green Parties of the Americas and the Global Greens.

6-3.5 Green Officeholders Network

6-3.5(a) Mission: The Green Officeholders Network Restricted Funds is
established to fund those activities provided for in the bylaws, rules
and procedures approved by the National Committee governing the Green
Officeholders Network.

ARTICLE VII STATE SHARING

7-1 State Sharing Programs

7-1.1 State Sharing Programs are programs in which funds raised are
shared between member state parties and the GPUS.

7-1.2 State party driven State Sharing Programs are those in which
contributions are received through the efforts of a member state party.

7-1.3 National driven State Sharing Programs are those in which
contributions are received through efforts of the National Party, its
staff, contractors and its National Committee.

7-2 Coordination on Donor Lists With State Parties

7-2.1 Once per calendar year, member state parties are expected to make
available to the GPUS their donor lists for the purpose of fundraising.
Other arrangements may be substituted in lieu of this with the approval
of the Fundraising Committee. GPUS will use these lists for fundraising
and outreach. GPUS will not share or sell these lists.

7-2.2 The Fundraising Committee as well as other committees, caucuses,
and/or networks, shall coordinate the timing of any solicitation of
state donors with the duly designated authority of each such member
state party, so as to avoid conflict between state and national party
fundraising efforts.

7-3 Revenue Sharing With State Parties.

7-3.1 The percentage of income allocated to member state parties and
the GPUS in state party driven and national driven State Sharing
Programs shall be approved by resolution of the National Committee.

7-3.2 To identify each contribution as part of a state driven or
national driven State Sharing Program and to calculate state sharing,
each State Sharing Program shall be assigned a tracking code as part of
the database records.

7-3.3 If the donor’s member state party cannot accept its full share of
the money for its own use, the assistance of the Treasurer and the
member state party treasurer shall be required for a decision as to the
disposition of the state party’s share of the donor’s contribution,
along with the Fundraising Committee.

7-3.4 Requests for donations made by the GPUS shall include a check-off
box for state sharing at the donor’s request.

ARTICLE VIII MERCHANDISING

Section 8-1 Merchandising

8-1.1 The Merchandise Committee shall select merchandise that is
consistent with the GPUS' purpose and the Ten Key Values in design,
materials, production, marketing and distribution, and should always
reflect the dual goals of building public awareness and support for the
Green Party on local, state and national levels, while generating
income for the GPUS.

8-1.2 The Merchandise Committee will present proposals to the Finance
Committee for purchase of merchandise.

8-1.3 The Merchandise Committee shall provide Party merchandise
purchased in bulk for resell by an Accredited Caucus or member state
party at preferential prices which ensure a return on the investment
made by the GPUS while affording an opportunity for caucuses and member
state parties to also use such inventory for their own fundraising
efforts.

8-1.4 The National Committee may, by the adoption of rules for the
Merchandise Committee, provide a formula for the reinvestment of
merchandising revenues in program inventory.

ARTICLE IX EXPENDITURES

Section 9-1 Expenditures From The General Operating Account

9-1.1 No expenditures from the General Operating Account shall be made,
except by the Treasurer upon written request and only when such
expenditures have been authorized in an Annual, Revised, Continuing or
Interim Annual Budget adopted pursuant to these rules; except that the
Treasurer shall also make individual payments when the Steering
Committee approves discretionary expenditures under policies set forth
in this Fiscal Policy.

9-1.2 The Treasurer, when authorized in an approved budget, may make
expenditures from the general funds up to a maximum of $2,000 for
individual payment without additional signatures from the Steering
Committee member who, as provided for in this policy, is co-chair of
the Finance Committee and is on the banking signature card. For
payments in excess of the amount of $2,000 the Treasurer shall request
and obtain an electronic approval from that Steering Committee member
for each payment.

9-1.3 All expenditures must be made by check or credit card, except
that a petty cash fund will be managed in the GPUS national office and
by the Annual National Meeting Committee for the handling of small
local expenses. Monthly reports of this fund shall be made available to
the Accountant and Treasurer.

9-1.4 All expenditures will be recorded and accounted for using
generally accepted banking and accounting practices, and a report of
all expenditures, including payees and amounts, will be available for
member review at the national office.

9-1.5 Bank statements along with their associated reconciliations will
be available to any member of the National Committee or Steering
Committee upon request.

9-1.6 Authorization of expenditures in the budget does not authorize
committees, employees or other representatives to actually expend Party
funds without specific and separate written permission of the Treasurer
or the Steering Committee. A budget is a projection of the desired
expenditures and does not guarantee that funds will be available.

9-1.7 Requests for funds shall be filed with the Treasurer for
forwarding to the Finance Committee and contain: the name of committee
or caucus requesting funds; source of funds (Restricted Fund or budget
line number); purpose for which funds are being requested;
documentation of committee/caucus decision to request funds; time
anticipated for use of requested funds; exact name of payee; and exact
address to which to send payment.

9-2 Prioritization of Expenditures

9-2.1 When drawing from the General Operating Account, the GPUS shall
satisfy its legal and contractual obligations first, and shall
prioritize its operating expenditures in the following order

9-2.1(a) Payroll taxes

9-2.1(b) Staff payroll, office lease, utilities

9-2.1(c) Independent contractors

9-2.1(d) Vendors that are indispensable to operations

9-2.1(e) Expenditures with a reasonable expectation of a return on
investment in a short period of time

Section 9-3 Reimbursement of Expenditures

9-3.1 In order to guarantee reimbursement of expenditures by any
committee, employee or other representative, such person must have
written permission to expend funds as authorized by the Annual Budget
or this fiscal policy. The Treasurer may choose to authorize, and any
individual may choose to make an expenditure, based on oral permission,
but this does not constitute a binding debt on the GPUS.

9-3.2 In order to avoid confusion regarding reimbursement, simplify
reporting and assure proper fiscal practice, committees, employees and
representatives of the GPUS shall make every effort to plan ahead and
have expenses paid directly to avoid the need for reimbursements.

Section 9-4 Travel Expenses

9-4.1 It is the policy of the GPUS to pay budgeted travel expenses
incurred by authorized Party members and employees while conducting
official GPUS business.

9-4.2 Travel by Party members and employees must be authorized by the
committee on which the person serves, or for employees by their
supervisor(s).

9-4.3 Diversity

9-4.3(a) It is not the intention of the GPUS to pay for National
Committee delegates or committee members' travel to and from the Annual
National Meetings and Presidential Nominating Conventions, except to
enhance diversity, specifically to increase the number of participants
who are people of color, women, L.G.B.T.I. (lesbian, gay, bisexual,
transgender, inter sex), youth, the disabled, and other traditionally
disenfranchised groups. These expenses shall be paid only when
pre-approved through application via the Diversity Committee and/or the
Steering Committee.

9-4.3(b) While the primary responsibility for travel assistance for
delegates and committee members rests with the member state parties
that those individuals represent, the Diversity Committee and/or the
Steering Committee may allocate funds from the Annual Budget and/or
raise additional funds to provide financial assistance for delegates
and committee members who are members of those groups listed in
subparagraph (a) of this paragraph.

9-4.4 Consistent with the Fiscal Policy on expenditures, all travel
expenditures must be approved by the Treasurer prior to commitment of
any funds.

9-4.5 Travel funds may be allocated in the Annual Budget for Steering
Committee members' travel expenses and shall be allocated equitably
among all members of the Steering Committee. Each Steering Committee
member shall be limited by the amount of funds in their travel account.
The Steering Committee may authorize a transfer of funds from the
allocation for one Steering Committee member to another. If a Steering
Committee member's travel expenses exceeds their budget allocation, the
Steering Committee may also authorize Discretionary Travel Funds on a
one-time basis.

9-4.6 Reimbursable travel expenses shall include but are not limited
to: registration fees, lodging, transportation, meals and child care
allowances. The reimbursable amount for mileage and food shall be as
determined by the Internal Revenue Service for business travel
(http://www.irs.gov).

9-4.7 Every effort must be taken to purchase the least expensive
travel, whether by air, rail, bus or taxi. Particularly with air
travel, the least expensive class of ticket must be purchased. Tickets
shall be purchased well in advance when that helps achieve the best
price. When possible the Treasurer is urged to negotiate for exceptions
for refund and flight changes with airlines.

9-4.8 When selecting lodging, the least expensive union facilities
shall be given first preference. If a union facility is not available
then the least expensive guideline shall apply. In all cases members
should select lodging where they feel safe.

9-4.9 At the point where the GPUS has contracted with a travel agency,
all travel will be scheduled through that agency.

9-4.10 Party members who require advances before traveling must request
the funds in a timely manner from the Treasurer and must obtain
authorization in writing from the committee, caucus or network they are
representing.

9-4.11 All authorized travel by Party members and employees will be
reimbursed for all reasonable and necessary expenses upon presentation
of receipts, paid bills, etc.

9-4.12 All reimbursable travel must be reconciled with receipts within
30 days of reimbursable travel.

9-4.13 Prohibited travel expenses

The expenditure of Party funds is prohibited for the following travel
expenses:

9-4.13(a) Travel by family or companions (except childcare expenses),
meals or other expenses incurred prior to or after the end of the
official travel with the exception of meals while traveling directly to
and from activities;

9-4.13(b) Meals and entertainment that are not approved by the
Treasurer, as well as any or all portions of official travel hosted
and/or paid for by others; and

9-4.13(c) Mileage traveled using personal vehicle while not on official
travel status.

9-4.14 Guest travel

9-4.14(a) Prior to extending an invitation to a guest of the GPUS to
participate in a GPUS event, the Steering Committee shall vote to
approve such funds as are required, from the Discretionary Travel Fund.
The proposal for such funds shall include the name of the guest, the
official purpose of the travel, the itinerary, and the maximum amount
to be disbursed.

ARTICLE X FISCAL MANAGEMENT

10-1 Bank Accounts

10-1.1 All funds -- whether cash or negotiable instruments --
contributed to or made payable to the GPUS shall be placed on deposit
in the principal accounts of the Party, except as provided by Section 2
of this Article related to Restricted Funds and the Operating Reserve
Fund, or by resolution of the National Committee. The Steering
Committee shall, from time to time, designate by resolution, the
principal depository of the Party. The Treasurer shall maintain at a
minimum a General Operating Account for check writing and depository
purposes and a Reserve Account for placement of Restricted Funds and
the Operating Reserve Fund.

10-1.2 The Treasurer shall account for revenues for and expenditures
from the General Operations Fund, the General Reserve Fund and from
each Restricted Funds.

10-2 Restricted Funds and the Operating Reserve Fund

10-2.1 Starting with the 2010 Fiscal Year, all Annual Budgets presented
to the National Committee shall contain a plan for building and
maintaining an Operating Reserve Fund. The goal of such a fund shall be
to provide a reserve, funded at three times the level necessary to
cover all monthly obligations authorized as operating expenses, as
defined in Article 9, Section 2 of this Policy.

10-2.2 No later than the 20th of each month or when information from
the previous month is available, the Treasurer shall transfer to each
Restricted Fund the amount of the previous month's donations to that
fund. No later than the 20th of each month the Treasurer shall transfer
to its Restricted Fund the estimated amount of state sharing for the
previous month. Reports from the Accountant and the Treasurer will
document these transfers.

10-3 Loans from the Reserve Account

10-3.1 Loans may be made to the General Operating Account from the
Reserve Account, but only to pay for operating expenses as defined in
Article 9, Section 2 of this Policy. Such loans must first be made from
the Operating Reserve Fund and only when that Fund is depleted may they
be made from a Restricted Fund.

10-3.2 Loans from Restricted Funds shall first be drawn from national
driven State Sharing. Only when that fund is depleted may loans be made
from other Restricted Funds.

10-3.3 Loans from the Operating Reserve Fund that cumulatively do not
exceed $15,000 or 1% percent of the Annual Budget, whichever is
greater, may be approved by the Steering Committee. Loans that
cumulatively exceed that cap may only be executed upon approval by the
National Committee.

10-3.4 Loans from Restricted Funds that cumulatively do not exceed
$5,000 or 1% percent of the Annual Budget, whichever is greater, may be
approved by the Steering Committee. Loans that cumulatively exceed that
cap may only be executed upon approval by the National Committee.

10.3.5 Whether authorized by the Steering Committee or the National
Committee, all proposals to borrow in any amount must be reported to
the National Committee prior to the final execution of any loan
agreement and must include the loan’s source, amount, terms, and
purposes and a plan and time line for repayment of the loan.

10-4 Credit Card Policy

10-4.1 The Treasurer, in consultation with the Steering Committee and
the Finance Committee, is authorized to obtain credit and debit cards
under the name of the GPUS, in order to facilitate normal fiscal
operations of the Party.

10-4.2 The use of the GPUS credit or debit cards or any other person’s
credit card for GPUS expenditures does not constitute a loan under this
fiscal policy as long as the bill is paid in full each month. It is the
intention of the GPUS to pay all credit cards charges in full when due
except for any disputed items that were charged on the card. Any
decision not to pay the full amount is subject to the loan provisions
of this fiscal policy.

10-4.3 Only the Treasurer is automatically authorized to hold a credit
or debit card for which the GPUS is responsible. A credit or debit card
may be issued to any other person, including staff and committee
members, only upon the recommendation of the Finance Committee and
adoption by a simple majority of the Steering Committee of a resolution
authorizing issuance of the card for a term not to exceed one year.

10-4.4 Any such additional cards may be issued only when supported by
accounting procedures which permit transactions to be tracked by the
cardholder authorizing the expenditure.

10-4.5 The Finance Committee shall institute guidelines for credit
limits and authorized usage limits for any credit card issued under the
name of the GPUS based upon the authorized monthly budgetary needs of
each cardholder.

10-4.6 All people issued credit cards herein are required to file a
report to the Treasurer and/or Accountant each month by the 10th day of
the following month, indicating the purpose of the charge and the
budgetary line item authorizing each expense. Repeated failure to
provide this information is grounds for cancellation of charging
privileges and return of the card at the Treasurer's request.

10-4.7 The GPUS credit card may not be used for non-Party expenses, or
any unauthorized expenses, under any circumstance. If any person issued
a GPUS credit card uses it for an unauthorized expense, the Treasurer
may cancel the charging privileges of that card and request immediate
return of the card as well as require immediate repayment of the
unauthorized expenses. The Treasurer will immediately notify the
Steering Committee of these actions.

10-4.8 The Finance Committee, or any staff and/or volunteers assigned
by it, is authorized and required to monitor the use of the Party
credit card to ensure that this policy is followed and enforced.

ARTICLE XI BUDGETING

11-1 Fiscal Year

11-1.1 The Fiscal Year of the GPUS shall be the calendar year (January
1 – December 31).

11-2 Interim Budget

11-2.1 Until a budget is approved, funds may be spent only for GPUS
administrative expenses as provided for in Article 9, Section 2 of this
Policy, including but not limited to personnel costs, literature costs,
post office box, communications (postage, phones and website
maintenance) and expenses associated with Annual National Meetings
and/or the Presidential Nominating Convention.

11-2.2 Funds may be spent on dues, or for co-sponsorships with
non-Green Party organizations, only with the advance and specific
approval of the National Committee.

11-2.3 All these expenses must be approved by the Steering Committee
and reported to the National Committee monthly. Expenses other than
those specifically listed herein are not allowed without advance
approval of the National Committee.

11-3 Annual Budget

11-3.1 The Steering Committee shall propose an Annual Budget for the
next fiscal year to the National Committee at each year’s Annual
National Meeting of the National Committee or propose it online prior
to November 15. Two-thirds majority approval by Steering Committee
members shall be necessary to recommend such a budget for the
consideration of the National Committee. Adoption of each Annual Budget
shall require the support of a simple majority of the National
Committee in a recorded vote, conducted no sooner than two weeks after
the Steering Committee's recommended budget has been transmitted to the
National committee.

11-3.2 Any such proposal to adopt an Annual Budget shall include the
following documents, certified by the Treasurer:

11-3.2(a) a fundraising plan;

11-3.2(b) an outreach plan;

11-3.2(c) a balance sheet and income statements reflecting revenues and
obligations accrued during the previous budget cycle;

11-3.2(d) cash flow projections documenting historical performance, and
assumptions underlying any changes projected;

11-3.3(e) and such reports and recommendations as are required by
Article 4, Section 2 of this Fiscal Policy, related to the management
of Endowed Funds.

11-3.3 The Annual Budget shall only be considered approved after it has
been passed by a vote of the National Committee.

11-3.4 The Annual Budget will incorporate anticipated expenses and
projected income from all sources. A Monthly Income and Expenses
Projection report shall accompany the budget. Legal and contractual
obligations as identified in 9.2.1, related to "Prioritization of
Expenditures", shall be identified in the Expenses Projection report.

11-3.5 The Annual Budget shall include projected total income and
expenses for the Annual National Meeting and in presidential election
years for the Quadrennial Presidential Nominating Convention.

11-3.6 A Reserve Fund shall be established with a goal of three months
of operating expenses.

11-3.7 Once approved, the Annual Budget shall limit the purposes and
amounts of the Party's allowable expenditures, and no expenditures may
be made that are not authorized by that budget. Appropriate mid-year
revisions to the Annual Budget may be proposed by the Steering
Committee at any time, but require approval by the National Committee.

11-3.8 The Steering Committee is authorized to approve minor
expenditures not included in the budget for administrative or emergency
matters without prior approval of the National Committee up to a limit
of $1,500 per month. The National Committee must be informed by email
of such expenditure within one week. The Steering Committee is also
authorized to modify expenditures for administrative purposes due to
unforeseen changes in costs or plans, limited to total expenditure of
$1,500 per month.

11-3.9 The Annual Budget shall be a public document.

ARTICLE 12 FINANCIAL REPORTING

12-1 National Committee Meeting Report

12-1.1 At each Annual National Meeting of the National Committee next
following the end of the fiscal year (December 31st), or not later than
July 1st in any year where no such meeting is held, the Treasurer shall
make an Annual Report to the National Committee, detailing the prior
year's fiscal activities, including parts of the appropriate FEC
report(s) which are viewable in the public domain, and any details on
these fiscal activities relevant to the Treasurer's Report.

12-2 Monthly Reporting

12-2.1 The Treasurer shall, on a monthly basis and not later than the
20th of each month, file with the National Committee a report of the
fiscal activities of the Party for the preceding month, including a
comparison between actual activities and projected activities for that
month, based on Generally Accepted Accounting Procedures for accrual
based accounting, acknowledging revenues and obligations as they are
incurred regardless of when money changes hands.

12-2.2 The Treasurer shall also provide monthly Cash Flow Reports,
compliant with Generally Accepted Accounting Procedures for cash-basis
accounting, in which revenue is recognized when funds are received and
expenses are recognized when funds are spent. The Cash Flow Report
shall also list any outstanding Accounts Payable.

12-2.3 The Treasurer is authorized to utilize such staff and contract
support as may be budgeted for the fulfillment of their reporting
responsibilities.

ARTICLE 13 FINANCE COMMITTEE

13-1 Purpose

13-1.1 There shall exist a standing Finance Committee whose primary
task is to monitor the fiscal activities of the Party.

13-2 Duties

The Finance Committee shall have the duty to:

13-2.1 Ensure that the GPUS complies with fiscal policies;

13-2.2 Consult with Party staff, the Steering Committee, Treasurer and
Accountant on fiscal policy;

13-2.3 Make recommendations to the National Committee for fiscal policy
changes;

13-2.4 Prepare annual budgets and draft occasional budget amendments
for the consideration of the National Committee;

13-2.5 Oversee the daily affairs of Party finances such as bank
accounts, methods of disbursement, etc.;

13-2.6 Obtain an independent annual audit of Party financial affairs by
a certified public accountant when authorized by the Treasurer and the
Steering Committee;

13-2.7 Oversee the Endowed Fund and recommend changes in investments to
the National Committee through the Steering Committee; and

13-2.8 Bring issues of concern to the Steering Committee or National
Committee, including making requests for the temporary suspension of
anticipated transactions. The Steering Committee will guide the
Treasurer until the concerns are answered or shall implement whatever
actions are needed in order to proceed with financial transactions.

13-3 Membership

13-3.1 Membership on the Finance Committee will be, at a minimum, the
Treasurer, the Accountant, the Steering Committee member designated as
a signatory to the principal depository for the Party, and any Steering
Committee members who choose to join.

13-3.2 Any member of the National Committee or another Green Party
member approved by their member state party, may be appointed to the
Committee upon approval of a resolution making such appointment by the
National Committee.

13-3.3 Prospective committee members for the Finance Committee shall
inform the Steering Committee of their interest, so that the Steering
Committee may call for a timely election for approval of the new
member.

13-3.4 Members may serve until they resign or are removed by their
member state party.

13-3.5 Members may be removed for cause by the National Committee upon
a proposal from the Steering Committee.

13-3.6 Members who are removed by their member state party or by the
National Committee may not be reappointed to the Finance Committee for
a period of one year.

13-3.7 The Finance Committee shall be co-chaired by the Treasurer and
by the Steering Committee member designated as a signatory to the
principal depository of the Party.

ARTICLE 14 AMENDMENTS TO THIS FISCAL POLICY

14-1 Amendments to these policies may be proposed by any Accredited
State or Caucus in accordance with the same rules used to adopt or
amend any other procedure of the GPUS.

Section 2.

Resolved, by the National Committee of the GPUS, that the Rules and
Procedures of the Green Party of the United States are amended by
renumbering Section 6., related to "Voting Rules" as Section 5., and
repealing the existing Section 5., related to Fiscal Policy, which
reads as follows:

5. FISCAL POLICY

INTRODUCTION

These fiscal policies are intended to make possible a higher level of
Green political activity, while safeguarding the independence of the
Green Party, the autonomy of its member parties, and the accountability
of its political and fiscal officers.

INCOME

Individuals: Contributions from individuals will be accepted in amounts
as permitted by law and all excess contributions will be returned. The
names of all individuals contributors will be in the public domain.

Organizations: No contributions will be accepted from political action
committees (PACs) without the express authorization of the National
Committee. Grants or contributions from foundations or other non-profit
organizations will be accepted up to a limit of $2000 per year per
grantor.

No contributions will be accepted from for-profit corporations.

The Treasurers annual report to the National Committee will partially
consist of the most recent Federal Elections Commission report which is
viewable in the public domain and includes details on contributions by
category as well as the names and addresses of all contributing
parties, individuals, and organizations.

MERCHANDISING

Green Party merchandising projects (T-shirts, bumper stickers,
supplies, etc) shall be authorized by the National Committee or the
Steering Committee. Any such merchandising must be consistent with the
Green Party's purpose in design, materials, production, marketing and
distribution, and should always reflect the dual goals of building
public awareness and support for our member Green parties, while
generating income for the Green Party.

Merchandising project leaders and committees shall be designated by the
Steering Committee or by the National Committee in a proposal format.
The Treasurers annual report to the National Committee will detail all
merchandising activities including expenses, income, type and
quantities, for each merchandise item or project. There shall be a
clear accounting of various merchandising projects by the merchandising
project leaders to the Green Party Treasurer.

LOANS

To cover emergencies, sudden expenses, or seed funds for special
projects, amounts of $2000 or less may be borrowed, with the express
written authorization of the Green Party Steering Committee.

Larger loans must be approved by a vote of the full National Committee.

Whether or not the National Committee approval is required, proposals
to borrow in any amount (including the loans source, amount, terms, and
purposes) must be reported to the National Committee prior to the final
execution of any loan agreement. Any such loan agreement must be signed
by the Treasurer and at least one other member of the Steering
Committee, on behalf of the Green Party.

Loan proceeds will be deposited in the Green Party's general operating
account. The Treasurers annual report to the National Committee will
include a full report on the status of all outstanding loans.

INVESTMENTS

Green Party funds may not be placed in any instrument whatsoever other
than Green Party bank accounts without the express, advance, and
specific authorization of the National Committee.

Endowed Fund accounts are available for specific and restricted
purposes, and with limitations on their investment and the disposition
of their income. All of which is under the oversight of the National
Committee.

EXPENDITURES

Expenditures from the Green Party's general operating account shall be
made by Treasurer upon written request only when such expenditures have
been authorized in the Green Party's interim, annual, or revised annual
budget.

All expenditures must be made by check or credit card.

The Treasurer, when authorized in an approved budget, may make
expenditures from the general funds up to a maximum of $2000 for
individual payment without additional signatures from another
designated Steering Committee member. For payments in excess of the
amount of $2000 the Treasurer shall request and obtain an electronic
approval from the designated Steering Committee member for each
payment. The designated Steering Committee member shall be on the
banking signature card.

The Treasurer shall also make individuals payments when the Steering
Committee approves discretionary expenditures under policies set forth
in these rules.

A petty cash fund will be managed in the national office for the
handling of small local expenses with monthly reports of this fund to
the accountant and treasurer.

All expenditures will be recorded and accounted for using accepted
banking and accounting practices, and a report of all expenditures,
including payees and amounts, will be available for member review at
the national office.

Bank statements along with their associated banks reconciliations will
be available to any member of the National Committee or Steering
Committee upon request.

REVENUE SHARING

Once per calendar year, state parties are expected to make available to
the Green Party their donor lists for the purpose of fundraising for
the Green Party. The Green Party will allow other arrangements to be
substituted in lieu of forwarding of state donor lists with the
approval of the Green Party Fundraising Committee.

The Fundraising Committee as well other committees/ caucuses/ networks
shall coordinate with the duly designated authority of each such state
party the timing of any solicitation of state donors so as to avoid
conflict between the state and national party fundraising efforts.

Representatives of the Green Party and representatives of accredited
state parties shall negotiate the percentage of revenue which shall be
remitted by the Green Party to each state party from the use of each
state donor list for direct mailing and events. The Green Party shall,
upon request of any state party, make an accounting to the state party
of the receipts attributable to donors of the states donor lists.

In those instances where donations are so shared between the state and
the national parties the maximum contribution allowed by state and
federal regulations shall be allowed to the state and national parties
and all sharing shall be done on a net revenue basis. Before any shared
contribution in a given year is accepted from a donor it will need to
be determined by the Treasurer as to whether the donors state can
accept their full share of the money for use by the state party. If
not, the assistance of the state treasurer and the national Treasurer
shall be required for a decision as to the disposition of the states
share of the donors contribution.

Every Green Party request for donations will include a check off box
for up to 50% of state sharing at the donors request.

FUNDRAISING POLICY

The Green Party of The United States Fundraising Committee is the
committee primarily responsible for the raising of funds for the
operation of The Green Party of The United States.

The Green Party will be making ongoing personal solicitations to donors
in all states throughout the year.

Caucuses, other committees and networks may engage in the raising of
funds solely for their own operations as long as they provide timely
notice of their efforts to the Green Party Fundraising Committee. They
may also choose to coordinate and/or partner their fundraising efforts
with the Green Party of The United States. Each accredited caucus,
committee and network will create a yearly fundraising plan and provide
a copy of same to the Green Party Fundraising Committee. In either
case, whether the fundraising is done jointly or solely there shall be
coordination with the Green Party Treasurer or designee (i.e. the
accountant, and/or the operations, fundraising, or political directors)
for the completion of the necessary record keeping, the filing of any
required reports and the banking of the monies being generated from the
fundraising efforts. In addition there shall be an accounting of all
monies expended in the fundraising efforts and in the operations
following the fundraising efforts.

The Green Party Treasurer or designee shall provide each Treasurer of
each accredited caucus, committee, and network the requisite financial
forms, either in hardcopy or electronic format, to carry out their
duties.

The Green Party Treasurer or designee shall provide, on a monthly
basis, each Treasurer of each accredited caucus, committee, and network
statements reflecting all monies deposited and spent.

Each accredited caucus, committee and network will provide to the
Treasurer or designee a working budget for each fundraising event.

At a minimum the following will be provided to the Treasurer or
designee: date of event, type of event, purpose of event, projected
startup costs, and receipts expected.

Any state participating in combined fundraising efforts with the Green
Party will provide the same information as above. The Green Party
Treasurer or designee shall provide copies of all appropriate documents
to the Steering Committee, Finance Committee, and Fundraising Committee
upon request or when appropriate.

FISCAL MANAGEMENT

BANK ACCOUNTS

The Green Party shall maintain at a minimum a general operating account
for check writing and depository purposes and a general reserve account
for placement of the party's reserve funds. Transfers between these
accounts may be made by the Treasurer as needed in accordance with
annual budget or upon specific directives from the Steering Committee.

CREDIT CARD POLICY

The Treasurer, in consultation with the Steering Committee and the
Finance Committee, is authorized to obtain credit cards under the name
of The Green Party of The United States, in order to facilitate normal
fiscal operations of The Green Party of The United States.

The use of the Green Party credit card or any other persons credit card
for Green Party expenditures does not constitute a loan under this
fiscal policy as long as the bill is paid in full each month. It is the
intention of the Green Party to pay all credit cards charges in full
when due except for any disputed items that were charged on the card.
Any decision not to pay the full amount is subject to the loan
provisions of this fiscal policy.

Only the Treasurer is automatically authorized to hold a credit card
for which the Green Party is responsible. For any other person, such as
staff or committee members to be issued a credit card, the Finance
Committee must make a recommendation for the Steering Committee
approval.

Additional cards will be designated for that individual so that the
charges to it can be traced to each cardholder.

The Finance Committee shall institute guidelines for credit limits and
authorized usage limits for any credit card issued under the name of
the Green Party based upon the authorized monthly budgetary needs of
each cardholder.

All people herein issued credit cards are required to file a report to
the Treasurer and/or accountant each month by the 10th day of the
following month, indicating what each charge to the credit card is for,
and what budgetary line item covers that expense. Repeated failure to
provide this information is grounds for cancellation of charging
privileges and return of the card at the Treasurers request.

The Green Party credit card may not be used for non-party expenses, or
any unauthorized expenses, under any circumstance. If any person issued
a Green Party credit card uses it for any unauthorized expense, the
Treasurer may cancel the charging privileges of that card and request
immediate return of the card as well as require immediate repayment of
the unauthorized expenses.

The Finance Committee, or any staff and/or volunteers assigned by it,
is authorized and required to monitor the use of the Green Party credit
card to ensure that this policy is followed and enforced.

BUDGETING

Interim budget: Until a budget is approved, funds may only be spent for
administrative expenses for the Green Party, including but not limited
to personnel costs, literature costs, post office box, communications
(postage, phones and website maintenance) and expenses associated with
Green Party meetings or an Green Party sponsored nominating convention.
All such expenses must be approved by the National Committee. Moneys
may be spent on dues, or for co-sponsorships with non-Green Party
organizations, only with the advance and specific approval of the
National Committee.

Annual budget: The Steering Committee will propose an annual budget to
the National Committee at each years National Committee meeting which
falls next prior to December 31st or propose it on line before November
15. The National Committee will then vote to approve or reject the
proposed budget at the meeting or on line. The annual budget will only
be considered approved after it has been passed by a vote of the
National Committee.

The Green Party's fiscal year will be the calendar year ( January 1-
December 31).

The annual budget will incorporate anticipated expenses and income from
all sources. A Green Party reserve fund will be established with a
target of three months of Green Party operating expenses. Once
approved, the annual budget will limit the purposes and amounts of the
Green Party's allowable expenditures, and no expenditures may be made
that are not in that budget. Appropriate mid-year revisions to the
annual budget may be proposed by the Steering Committee at any time,
but require approval by the National Committee. The Green Party's
budget will be a public document.

The Green Party Steering Committee is authorized to approve minor
expenditures not included in the budget for administrative or emergency
matters without prior approval of the National Committee up to a limit
of $1000 per month. The National Committee must be informed by email of
such an expenditure within one week. The Steering Committee is also
authorized to modify expenditures for administrative purposes due to
unforeseen changes in costs or plans, limited to total expenditure of
$1000 per month.

APPROPRIATIONS AND REIMBURSEMENTS

Authorization of expenditures in the budget does not authorize Green
Party committees, employees or other representatives to actually spend
these funds without specific and separate written permission of the
Treasurer or the Steering Committee. A budget is a projection of the
desired expenditures and does not guarantee that funds will be
available.

In order to guarantee reimbursement of expenditure by any committee,
employee or other representative, such person must have written
permission to spend funds as authorized by the budget or this fiscal
policy. The Treasurer may choose to authorize, and any individual may
choose to make an expenditure, based on oral permission, but this does
not constitute a binding debt on the Green Party.

In order to avoid confusion regarding reimbursement, simplify Green
Party reporting and assure a proper fiscal practice, committees,
employees and representatives of the Green Party should make every
effort to plan ahead and have expenses paid directly by the Green Party
to avoid the need for reimbursements.

It is the policy of the Green Party of the United States to pay actual
and necessary expenses incurred by authorized Party members and
employees when they travel outside their city of residency while
conducting official business for the Green Party.

All travel by Party members and employees must be approved by the
committee on which the person serves or for employees by their
supervisor(s). Committees should not expect the Green Party to pay for
all committee members to attend events.

It is not the intention of the Green Party to pay for delegates or
committee members travel to and from the annual meetings and
conventions except to enhance diversity. Specifically, to increase the
number of participants who are people of color, women, L.G.B.T.I .
(lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, inter sex), youth, the disabled,
and any other traditionally disenfranchised group. While the primary
responsibility for travel assistance for delegates and committee
members rests with the state parties that those individuals represent,
it is of such vital importance to the growth of the Green Party to
enhance diversity that the national party will allow the Diversity
Committee to allocate funds from the annual budget and to raise
additional funds to provide financial assistance for delegates and
committee members who represent the above mentioned groups.

Per the fiscal policy on expenditures, all travel expenditures must be
approved by the treasurer prior to commitment of any funds.

In the case of Steering Committee members may receive an equal amount
of travel funds at the beginning of each budget year. If a Steering
Committee members travel exceeds the budgeted amount the Steering
Committee can vote to disburse discretionary travel funds for a one
time allocation to that member for specific activity. Travel
expenditures by each Steering Committee member will be limited by the
amount of funds in their travel account. A Steering Committee member
may transfer funds from his or her own account to that of authorized
use for a portion of their allocation to another Steering Committee
member if authorized by a vote of the Steering Committee.

The treasurer will provide periodic updates of travel expenses for
committees and Steering Committee members. All committees and Steering
Committee members are advised to keep track of their spending.

Reimbursable travel expenses will include but not limited to:
registration fees, lodging, transportation, meals and a child care
allowance. The reimbursable amount for mileage and food will be paid as
determined by the Internal Revenue Service for business travel. For
example in 2002 mileage was on average $.365 per mile. See
http://www.irs.gov for details prior to travel.

Every effort must be taken to purchase the least expensive travel. This
may include staying over on a Saturday night by some airlines. The
least expensive class of ticket must be purchased. Purchase tickets
well in advance for best price. When possible negotiate for an
exception for refund and flight changes with airlines.

When selecting lodging the least expensive union facilities will be
given first choice. If a union facility is not available then the least
expensive guideline applies. In all cases members should select lodging
where they feel safe and comfortable.

At the point where the Green Party has contracted with a travel agency,
all travel will be scheduled through that agency.

Party members who require advances before traveling must request the
funds in a timely manner from the Treasurer and must obtain
authorization in writing from the committee, caucus or network they are
representing.

All authorized travel by party members and employees will be reimbursed
for all reasonable and necessary expenses upon presentation of
receipts, paid bills, etc.

All reimbursable travel must be reconciled with receipts within 30 days
of reimbursable travel.

Prohibited travel expenses:

Travel by family or companions, except expenses for child care, meals
or other expenses incurred prior to or after the end of the official
travel with the exception of meals while traveling directly to and from
activities.

Meals and entertainment that are not approved by the Green Party
Treasurer as well as any or all portions of official travel hosted
and/or paid for by others.

Mileage traveled using personal vehicle while not on official travel
status

Guest travel

The party may host guests in their official capacities that require
travel funds. The Green Party SC will vote to approve funds from the
discretionary travel funds prior to extending the invitation. The
proposal for such funds will include the name of the guest, the
official purpose of the travel, the itinerary, and the maximum amount
to be disbursed.

REPORTING AND AUDITING

At each years National Committee meeting next following the end of the
fiscal year (December 31st), the Treasurer shall make an annual report
to the National Committee, detailing the prior years fiscal activities
which will partially consist of the appropriate Federal Elections
Commission report(s) which are viewable in the public domain and
include many details on these fiscal activities.

There will be a standing Finance Committee whose primary task is to
monitor fiscal activities only. The duties of the Finance Committee are
to ensure the fiscal policies are complied with, consult with staff and
the Steering Committee as well as make recommendations to the National
Committee for fiscal policy changes, prepare annual budgets and draft
occasional budget amendments for the consideration of the National
Committee. The Finance Committee will also oversee the daily affairs of
party finances such as bank accounts, methods of disbursement, etc., as
well as obtain an independent annual audit of our financial affairs by
a certified public accountant when authorized by the Treasurer and the
Steering Committee.

The Treasurer and accountant will consult with the Finance Committee on
our fiscal policies, and the Finance Committee is authorized to bring
issues concern to the Steering or National Committee and temporarily
halt transactions if they raise concern. The Steering Committee with
the direction of the National Committee shall implement whatever
actions are recommended in order to continue financial transactions.

Membership on the Finance Committee will be, at a minimum, the
Treasurer, the accountant, the designated Steering Committee member who
is on the banking signatory card, and any Steering Committee members
who choose to join. Any member of the National Committee may join with
voted approval of the National Committee. With the approval of their
affiliated state party, persons who are Green Party members but not
National Committee members may join if approved by the National
Committee.

Prospective committee members for the Finance Committee shall inform
the Steering Committee of their interest, so that the Steering
Committee may call for a timely election for approval of the new
member. Members may serve until they resign or are removed by their
state party. Members may also be removed for cause by the National
Committee upon a proposal from the Green Party Steering Committee. The
Treasurer shall be the one of the chairpersons of the Finance Committee
and the designated Steering Committee person who is on the banking
signatory card shall be the other co-chairperson of this committee.

AMENDMENTS TO THESE FISCAL POLICIES

Amendments to these policies may be proposed by any member of the Green
Party National Committee at any time, in according to accordance with
the same rules used to adopt or amend any other procedure of the Green
Party of The United States. All committee, caucus, and network bylaws,
rules and procedures are superseded by these fiscal policies of the
Rules and Procedures of The Green Party of The United States.

Section 3.

This Fiscal Policy shall take effect upon adoption by the National
Committee, except for the provisions of Article 10, Section 2,

Paragraph 2, which shall become effective starting on March 15th, 2009.

The National Committee finds under 10-3.4 that funds from existing
Restricted Funds from 2008 are considered to be loaned from those
Restricted Funds to the General Operating Funds, subject to a
transition plan on their repayment. The Finance Committee is directed
by February 15th, 2009 to report to the National Committee its
transition plan, subject to the approval of the Steering Committee, for
bringing existing practices into compliance with the provisions of
Article 10, Section 2 of this Policy, related to the handling of
restricted funds, including a plan to ensure that Restricted Funds from
2008 are transfered back to the Restricted Funds in the Reserve
Account.

Should it prove feasible, the Treasurer and/or Finance Committee and/or
Steering Committee is directed to begin the process of funding the
Operating Reserve Fund before it is mandated in Fiscal Year 2010.

The BRPP is directed by the National Committee to present alternatives
to the National Committee no later than February 15th, 2009, for
whether 10-3.4 should be amended to allow caucuses and/or committees
and/or state parties which may have Restricted Funds as provided for in
this Fiscal Policy, to have decision making power, either unilaterally
or through some other approach, over whether loans may be made from
those Restricted Funds; and causes, committees and states which may
have Restricted Funds as provided for in this Fiscal Policy, are asked
by the National Committee to discuss this issue and provide
recommendations to the BRPP.

Section 4.

Resolved, that the Committee on Bylaws, Rules, Policies and Procedures
instructs its co-chairs (1) to report its action on this proposal to
the Finance Committee, seeking its input and (2) to transmit this
amended proposal to the National Committee.

Resources

NONE

References

For a summary of changes since the Committee's October 18th action to adopt BRPP #83:

http://brpp.campaignfoundations.com/index.php?title=Fiscal_Policy%2C_GPUS&diff=2544&oldid=2438

BRPP Co-chairs: Hugh Esco hesco - at - greens.org
Audrey Clement aclement65 - at - hotmail.com

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