About eAIP

The eAIP is an electronic chapter (chapter 72) of the American Institute of Parliamentarians. The Electronic Chapter of The American Institute of Parliamentarians (eAIP) was formed in the summer of 2002 in order to explore various way of conducting real-time meetings via non-traditional means. We “promote the communication between and education of AIP members without regard to geographical location and to promote education in the practice of online deliberative assemblies.” (eAIP Bylaws, Article 2)

Deliberative assemblies have traditionally conducted their business in a physical meeting hall where everyone can see, hear, and even touch one another. Until recently such a format was necessary in order to ensure full and fair discussion on items of business and guarantee accountability. Yet with innovations in technology, the demand for modern meetings through electronic means has increased and parliamentarians must be able to change with times. The most common parliamentary authority, Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised, 10th Edition now allows for such meetings as long as there is “the opportunity for simultaneous communication among all participants…” which is “central to the deliberative character of a meeting, and is what distinguishes it from attempts to do business by postal or electronic mail or by fax.” It also suggests that special rules be crafted for such meetings. (RONR [10th ed.], p. 482, l. 29 -483, l. 1-5)

eAIP conducts all of its meetings, in accordance with these requirements. Currently we use text chat rooms as our meeting hall. Members must seek recognition and only one person may debate at a time. Votes can either be taken in the room, or through secret ballot. Special rules have been developed to enhance our meetings, and it is amazing what has been accomplished! We have adopted bylaws and rules, elected officers, filled blanks, appealed from the decision of the chair, and handled many other complex motions through with great success. We have also proved that such business can be conducted at a fraction of the price of high-priced videoconference and teleconference systems, and often even less than the cost of having an old-fashioned in-person meeting.

Any AIP member can join eAIP, and our members come from all different level of parliamentary and technology experience. Our dues are only $25.00 per year dues can be paid online using PayPal. Join us in our exciting adventure of conducting tomorrow’s meetings, today! You can view our bylaws here.