Section 6.13: Governmental Affairs Committee Operating Procedures
I. Purpose and Responsibilities
The Governmental Affairs Committee (GAC) influences the regulation, legislation and development of public policy related to occupational safety and health (OSH) by building meaningful and collaborative relationships with stakeholders and by engaging ASSP members in governmental affairs activities.
II. Committee Membership
- The president-elect shall appoint committee members as specified in the ASSP bylaws.
- The committee shall not exceed eight members, which includes the chair.
- Experience in regulatory or government affairs is preferred to serve on this committee.
- Committee members serve a three-year term and may not be reappointed. Appointments are structured to allow for staggered terms.
- The term of the chair is one year, renewable for a maximum of three consecutive years. The chair can serve up to six years total on the GAC to allow for synergy and succession planning.
III. Committee Operations
A. Meetings
- Schedule: Meetings will be scheduled as necessary and will be conducted virtually.
- Quorum: A quorum shall be a simple majority of committee members.
- Agenda: The chair will develop an agenda for each meeting and distribute to committee members in advance of each virtual meeting.
- Committee Business: The committee may conduct official business at virtual meetings or by other means such as electronic mail. The committee will work with other committees and councils as necessary to meet ASSP needs and objectives.
- Minutes: Minutes will be prepared for each committee meeting.
- Budgeting and Finance: The committee operates within the Society budget.
Addendum I: Specific Committee Actions
The GAC will assist with proactive measures to promote ASSP public policy and positions.
The GAC will submit comments and position papers to to the Board of Directors for approval. Comments and position will be approved in accordance with the applicable SOG, [Society Operating Guidelines]
The chair may establish working groups with an assigned chair. Such subgroups or task forces will be given a specific charter and timeline for resolution of issues and shall be sunset upon completion of assignments.
Key activities include:
- Assisting ASSP in governmental-affairs-related matters that impact OSH.
- Supporting relationships with key government agencies and important non-governmental and trade and professional organizations regarding public policy issues.
- Assisting with analysis of federal legislation, regulation and the development of public policy involving OSH.
- Reviewing and assisting with developing ASSP positions and comments on federal OSH legislation and regulation or regulations/legislation related to OSH (e.g., environmental management regulations).
Approved By | Date: Board of Directors | 7/2023
Replaces Edition Dated: 12/2019
Next Revision Due: 1/2026