Tips on Writing Resolutions
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When writing resolutions remember that the purposes of resolutions to the Congress of Delegates of the Georgia Academy of Family Physicians are:
- To establish Academy policy,
- To request implementation of Academy programs, and to address issues of interest or concern to family physicians and the specialty of family medicine,
- To request elimination of Academy activities considered nonessential.
- Additionally, there are special resolutions of commendation or in memoriam for members.
In writing a resolution, use clear, concise language subject to only one interpretation. This applies both to the resolved clause(s) and whereas clauses(s). Though whereas precedes the resolved portion in presentation form, it is best to develop them after the resolved portion is written. This makes it easier to limit whereas clauses to relevant and necessary information.
In preparing whereas clauses, give special attention to the following:
- Limit number of whereas clauses to the minimum number required to provide reasonable support for the resolved clause(s).
- Carefully check the facts and verify data used.
- Limit the use of adjectives or qualifying adverbs that are considered editorial opinion.
As stated above, it is the resolved clause(s) that is subject to adoption. Whatever policy or action is called for must be in the resolved portion. Remember these tips when writing the resolved clause(s):
- Some specific action must be delineated.
- The resolved portion must be written to "stand alone".
- Action called for must be action within the purview of the Academy.
- Call for only one action in a resolved clause. If there are two or three related actions being proposed, write a resolved clause for each.
If you have any questions or need assistance, contact Jacquelyn Taylor at 1-800-392-3841 or jtaylor@gafp.org.
Click here for Resolution Form