Resolution Writing 101
Ever written a resolution to MAFP?
Now is your chance to put your ideas into action.
Have you often
thought something would be good for the Academy to do, but didn’t
have the time to approach anyone? Maybe you weren’t sure how to go
about getting your idea implemented?
Or you were
afraid being heard would mean you would be put in charge — something
you just don’t have time for right now? Well, stop procrastinating
and send your idea to MAFP! Writing a resolution is the way to
accomplish your goals through MAFP’s House of Delegates — and it’s
easy! Here’s how:
Resolution Writing 101
1.
Formulate your idea or subject for the resolution.
2.
Organize your thoughts on the subject.
3.
Begin
writing the resolution using clear, concise language.
The Academy has
samples available on the proper format of a resolution. It may look
confusing, but it’s really not once you work through the language.
As for the “whereas” and “be it resolved” phrases —
it’s not as bad as it sounds.
Look at it this way:
“Whereas”
clauses simply explain the problem or situation;
“Resolved”
clauses clearly explain what action should be taken.
Remember,
although it is possible to have more than one “Whereas” and
“Resolved” clause, keep focused on what is desired as an end
result. Many times one resolution could be broken into two or three
separate ones — don’t make it too complicated! One helpful method
is to develop your “resolved” clauses first. This makes it
easier to limit “whereas” clauses to relevant and necessary
background information.
A little more
helpful advice:
“Whereas”
clauses...
Limit the number
of whereas clauses
Carefully check
facts and verify data
Avoid
editorializing
Are not included
once the resolution is adopted
“Resolved”
clauses...
Write the
resolved portion first
Write resolved
portion to stand alone (i.e., self-explanatory)
Only call for
action the Academy has some control over
Limit each
“resolved” clause to one action.
Provide fiscal
note if needed
Sample:
Title (topic) of resolution:
Submitted by: (must be a member or through a local chapter or
committee)
WHEREAS (the reason action is needed)
and
WHEREAS (more information, if necessary, you can use as many WHEREAS
phrases as you need)
and
BE IT RESOLVED that the MAFP (what you want done)
(And if needed for another action)
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the MAFP (what else to be done, if
necessary)
SUBMIT no later than six weeks prior to the House of Delegates
meeting.
Please return this form to:
Minnesota
Academy of Family Physicians
600 S Hwy 169,
Suite
1680
Saint Louis Park,
MN 55426
Fax: 952-542-0135
E-mail to office@mafp.org
