Revised July 2023
Blue Book
OF BASIC DOCUMENTS
2023
This edition supersedes all previous editions of the Blue Book.
Girl Scouts of the USA
420 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10018-2798
Blue Book
OF BASIC DOCUMENTS
2023
National President
Noorain F. Khan
Chief Executive Officer
Bonnie Barczykowski
This book may not be reproduced, disseminated, or distributed in whole or in any form or by
any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any
information storage and retrieval system now known or hereafter invented, without prior
permission of Girl Scouts of the United States of America, 420 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY
10018-2798, or a local Girl Scout council. Members are authorized to print one copy of this
book for their personal use.
© 2023 Girl Scouts of the United States of America
All rights reserved. Electronic edition published 2023.
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CONSTITUTION
OF GIRL SCOUTS OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Founded by Juliette Low, March 12, 1912
Chartered by special act of Congress
(Public Law 460; approved March 16, 1950)
Congressional Charter subsequently revised under Public Law 105-225;
approved August 12, 1998
PREAMBLE
PROMISE
The promise
On my honor, I will try:
To serve God and my country,
To help people at all times,
And to live by the Girl Scout Law.
LAW
THE LAW
I will do my best to be
honest and fair,
friendly and helpful,
considerate and caring,
courageous and strong,
and responsible for what I say and do,
and to
respect myself and others,
respect authority,
use resources wisely,
make the world a better place,
and be a sister to every Girl Scout.
BELIEFS & PRINCIPLES
OF THE GIRL SCOUT
MOVEMENT IN THE USA
BELIEFS AND PRINCIPLES
We, the members of Girl Scouts of the United States of America, united by a belief in God, hold that the
Girl Scout Promise and Law is the cornerstone of our Movement,
FOUNDERS’ NAMES
And inspired by the Founder of the Girl Scout Movement in the United States, Juliette Low, and by the
aims of the Founder of the Scout Movement, Lord Baden-Powell, attest to the following:
MISSION
MISSION
Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place.
SPIRITUAL FORCE
SPIRITUAL FORCE
The motivating force in Girl Scouting is spiritual. The ways in which members identify and fulfill their
spiritual beliefs are personal and private.
OPEN MEMBERSHIP
OPEN MEMBERSHIP
The Girl Scout Movement is open to all girls and adults who accept the Girl Scout Promise and Law and
meet membership requirements.
PATRIOTISM, CITIZENSHIP,
& COMMUNITY SERVICE
PATRIOTISM, CITIZENSHIP, AND COMMUNITY SERVICE
Local, national, and global service and action are core elements of the Girl Scout experience.
DIVERSITY, PLURALISM &
ANTI-RACISM
DIVERSITY, PLURALISM AND ANTI-RACISM
Girl Scouts advance diversity, pluralism, and anti-racism and actively identify and oppose racism by
removing systemic barriers to participation in our Movement and in the communities in which we live.
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RESPONSIBILITY FOR
MOVEMENT/DEMOCRATIC
PROCESS
RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE MOVEMENT AND THE DEMOCRATIC PROCESS
The ultimate responsibility for the Girl Scout Movement rests with its members. We govern by an
efficient and effective democratic process that demonstrates our leadership in a fast-changing world.
GIRL/ADULT PARTNERSHIP
GIRL/ADULT PARTNERSHIP
Adults partner with girls to guide and inspire growth and achievement. Volunteers are essential to the
strength and capacity of our Movement.
WORLD ASSOCIATION
WORLD ASSOCIATION OF GIRL GUIDES AND GIRL SCOUTS (WAGGGS)
We are active partners in a worldwide sisterhood through our affiliation with WAGGGS. We work with
WAGGGS to address the needs of girls and to build a network of global citizens.
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
We take an active leadership role and are collaborative partners in the community.
VOICE FOR GIRLS
VOICE
We are a premier voice for girls and an expert on their growth and development.
NAME
ARTICLE I NAME OF THE CORPORATION
The name of this corporation is Girl Scouts of the United States of America.
PURPOSE OF CORPORATION
ARTICLE II PURPOSE OF THE CORPORATION
PURPOSE/JURISDICTION
The purpose of the corporation is to promote the Girl Scout Movement in the United States of America,
which includes the United States, its territories, and possessions, by directing and coordinating the
Movement and by providing and administering the Girl Scout program in accordance with the purposes
set forth in its Congressional Charter.
GIRL SCOUT PROGRAM
ARTICLE III THE GIRL SCOUT PROGRAM
Grounded in the Girl Scout Promise and Law, Girl Scouting is a nonformal, experiential, and cooperative
education program that promotes girls’ personal growth and leadership development. Partnering with
caring adults, girls design fun and challenging activities that empower them and raise their voices within
a local, national, and global sisterhood.
NATIONAL COUNCIL
ARTICLE IV THE NATIONAL COUNCIL
CORPORATION MEMBERSHIP
1. The membership of this corporation shall consist of the members of the National Council of Girl Scouts
of the United States of America, and the corporation in meeting assembled shall be known as the
National Council.
POWERS
2. The National Council shall have all the powers conferred by the Congressional Charter and by other
applicable laws, and shall exercise these powers with due regard for its position as the coordinating head
of the Girl Scout Movement in the United States.
ELIGIBILITY FOR
MEMBERSHIP
3. Only citizens of the United States who are members of the Girl Scout Movement in the United States
and who are 14 years of age or over may be members of the National Council.
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MEMBERSHIP
4. The membership of the National Council shall consist of:
a. delegates elected by Girl Scout councils who are registered through such local councils;
b. delegates from USA Girl Scouts Overseas;
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c. members of the National Board of Directors;
d. members of the National Board Development Committee;
e. Past Presidents of Girl Scouts of the United States of America; and
f. such other persons as may be elected by the National Council.
The total membership of the National Council shall not exceed 1,500, and at least four-fifths of the entire
membership shall consist of delegates from local councils and from USA Girl Scouts Overseas.
FORMULA FOR DELEGATES
5. Each local council to which a charter has been issued and remains in force shall be entitled to the
following delegates based on the number of girls under its jurisdiction who are members of the Girl
Scouts of the United States of America as of September 30, two years preceding the regular session of
the National Council:
a. two (2) delegates;
b. one (1) additional delegate for up to 3,500 girls;
c. one (1) additional delegate for every 3,500 girls thereafter.
USA Girl Scouts Overseas collectively shall be entitled to the number of delegates according to the same
formula prescribed for local councils.
The prescribed figure of 3,500 girls may be adjusted when necessary to keep the total membership of
the National Council no larger than 1,500.
EXECUTIVE STAFF MEMBERS
6. Executive staff members employed by any local council shall be eligible for election as delegates to the
National Council, provided that the number of such executive staff members from any local council shall
not exceed the number of volunteers elected for the same period as delegates from that local council.
TERM FOR DELEGATES
7. Subject to the requirements of the preceding sections of this article, delegates elected by local
councils shall be elected in the calendar year preceding the National Council Session and shall serve as
members of the National Council for three years from the date of their election or until their successors
are elected, provided they remain the delegates of the local council which elected them; delegates from
USA Girl Scouts Overseas shall serve as members for three years from the date of their selection or until
their successors are selected, provided they remain delegates from USA Girl Scouts Overseas; members
of the National Board of Directors and National Board Development Committee shall be members of the
National Council during their term of office; those persons elected by the National Council shall serve
until the next regular session of the National Council.
NATIONAL COUNCIL
SESSIONS
ARTICLE V SESSIONS OF THE NATIONAL COUNCIL
REGULAR SESSIONS
1. There shall be a regular session of the National Council held triennially at such time and place as
determined by the National Board of Directors. Notice of the time, place, and purpose of such session
shall be mailed or delivered electronically not less than 60 days before the session to each local council,
to each USA Girl Scouts Overseas committee, and to each member of the National Board of Directors and
National Board Development Committee.
RESPONSIBILITIES
2. The National Council at its sessions shall hold elections, amend the Constitution, establish
requirements for credentials, and shall determine the general lines of policy of the Girl Scout Movement
and program by considering and acting upon proposals directed toward the fostering and improvement
of Girl Scouting, by receiving and acting upon reports of its National Board of Directors, and by giving
guidance to the National Board upon general lines of direction of the Movement and program.
1. “Overseas” is a designation for the Girl Scouts of the USA program delivered outside the jurisdiction of a chartered Girl Scout council.
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SPECIAL SESSIONS
3. Special sessions of the National Council shall be called by the President upon written request of a
majority of the members of the National Board of Directors or twenty percent (20%) of the membership
of the National Council, which shall represent at least twenty-five percent (25%) of the councils
chartered by GSUSA. The purpose of the session shall be stated in the written request.
The purpose of the special session shall be limited to legitimate business of the National Council, and no
other business shall be transacted except that for which the session has been specifically called.
Notice of the special session, stating the time, place, and specific purpose, shall be mailed or delivered
electronically not less than 30 days before the session to each local council, each delegate from USA Girl
Scouts Overseas, each member of the National Board of Directors and the National Board Development
Committee, each Past President, and each member elected by the National Council who is entitled to
vote at such session.
QUORUM
4. Two hundred members of the National Council present in person shall constitute a quorum for the
transaction of business at sessions of the National Council, provided, however, that delegates are
present from one or more local councils in a majority of the geographical areas of the country as defined
in the Bylaws. At the sole discretion of the National Board, any special National Council session and in
the event of an emergency any regular National Council Session may be held in whole or in part by
means of the internet or other electronic communications technology pursuant to which the members of
the National Council have the opportunity to read or hear the proceedings substantially concurrently
with their occurrence, vote on matters submitted to the members, pose questions, and make comments.
Attendance through such means shall constitute presence in person at such meeting for quorum and
voting purposes. In the absence of a quorum, a majority of those present at the time and place set for a
session may take an adjournment from time to time until a quorum shall be present.
VOTING
5. Each member present in person at the National Council shall be entitled to one (1) vote. Decision on
membership dues shall require a majority of votes cast. All matters shall be determined by a majority
vote of the members present and voting, unless otherwise provided by this Constitution.
PROPOSALS
ARTICLE VI PROPOSALS TO THE NATIONAL COUNCIL
ORIGIN OF
1. Proposals directed toward the fostering and improvement of Girl Scouting that are to be acted upon
by the National Council may be originated (a) by the National Board of Directors and (b) by local councils.
Proposals shall be submitted according to the following procedures:
BY NATIONAL BOARD
OF DIRECTORS
a. Proposals originated by the National Board of Directors: (1) such proposals shall be sent to local
councils for consideration prior to the next session of the National Council, together with the
recommendations of the National Board of Directors; (2) action shall be taken on such
proposals by the National Council at its next session.
BY LOCAL COUNCILS
b. Proposals originated by local councils: (1) such proposals shall be sent to the National Board of
Directors by such date as shall be determined by the National Board of Directors; (2) the
National Board of Directors, in its sole discretion, shall determine whether such proposals
relate to matters which should properly be acted upon by the National Council, except that a
proposal submitted by a minimum of 15 percent of all Girl Scout councils holding a charter
issued by the National Board of Directors of Girl Scouts of the USA as of September 30 of the
year preceding the regular session of the National Council shall be determined by the National
Board of Directors to relate to matters which should properly be acted upon by the National
Council; (3) proposals which the National Board determines relate to matters which should
properly be acted upon by the National Council shall be sent to local councils for consideration
prior to the next session of the National Council, together with the recommendations of the
National Board of Directors; (4) action shall be taken on such proposals by the National Council
at its next session.
2. Any proposal involving a constitutional amendment shall be governed by the provisions of the article
on amendments.
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LOCAL COUNCILS
ARTICLE VII LOCAL GIRL SCOUT COUNCILS
Local Girl Scout councils shall be organized to further the development of the Girl Scout Movement in
the United States; to establish local responsibility for leadership, administration, and supervision of the
program; and to develop, manage, and maintain Girl Scouting in accordance with the terms of their
charters.
CREDENTIALS
ARTICLE VIII CREDENTIALS
REQUIREMENTS
1. The National Council shall establish requirements for certificates of membership, local council
charters, and all other credentials.
ADMINISTRATION
2. The National Board of Directors shall administer the requirements for the credentials established by
the National Council, and may establish standards and issue standards, procedures, and interpretations
regarding such requirements provided such standards, procedures, and interpretations are consistent
with the requirements established by the National Council.
ISSUANCE REVOCATION
3. The National Board of Directors, in its sole discretion, shall have the power to issue these credentials
subject to the requirements established by the National Council, and to revoke them when, in its
opinion, the terms and conditions thereof or requirements therefore are being violated or when the best
interests of Girl Scouting are not being furthered.
DURATION
4. Charters and other credentials shall be issued for no more than six years. Certificates of membership
shall be issued for annual, lifetime, or other applicable periods. All the credentials shall bear the name of
Juliette Low.
MEMBERSHIP DUES
ARTICLE IX MEMBERSHIP DUES
Every person accepting the principles of the Girl Scout Movement and desiring to be a member of the
Girl Scout Movement in the United States of America shall pay annual, lifetime, or other applicable
membership dues to Girl Scouts of the United States of America. Dues are set by the National Council or
the National Board.
The National Board shall implement procedures for communicating with and seeking input from Girl
Scout councils and National Council delegates prior to any membership dues change by the National
Board.
NATIONAL BOARD OF
DIRECTORS
ARTICLE X NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS
MANAGEMENT OF
CORPORATION/EXECUTIVE
COMMITTEE
1. The affairs of the corporation between sessions of the National Council shall be managed by
a National Board of Directors, except that the Bylaws may provide for an Executive Committee to
exercise the powers of the National Board in the interim between its meetings.
COMPOSITION
2. The National Board of Directors shall consist of the President, the Vice Presidents, the Secretary, and
the Treasurer; and 25 members-at-large. The Chair of the National Board Development Committee, if not
already elected to the National Board, shall be ex officio a member of the National Board. The Chief
Executive Officer shall be an ex officio member without vote. The National Board shall at all times be
representative of the various geographical areas of the country.
ELECTION OF MEMBERS
TERMS
3. All members-at-large of the National Board of Directors shall be elected by the National Council at
each regular session to serve a three-year term beginning at the time of their installation at the session
when elected and ending upon the installation of their successors at the next regular session of the
National Council except that National Board members elected also as members of the National Board
Development Committee shall have a three-year term to coincide with the term of National Board
Development Committee members.
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Of those nominated by the National Board Development Committee at least one-third shall be serving at
the time of their nomination either a first or second term as members of the National Board of Directors.
NUMBER OF TERMS
Members of the National Board of Directors shall serve for no more than three consecutive terms,
except that, regardless of the number of terms any person shall have served as a member of the
National Board of Directors, such person may be eligible to be a member of the National Board when
serving as an officer of the corporation elected by the National Council or as Chair of the National Board
Development Committee.
NON-PARTICIPATING
MEMBERS
4. Any National Board member who is absent from two consecutive National Board meetings in their
entirety without good cause, acceptable to the President or designee, shall be removed from the
National Board by a majority vote of the National Board members present and voting at any regular
meeting of the National Board of Directors.
Further, a National Board member may be removed with or without cause by a three-fourths vote of the
total number of the National Board of Directors.
VACANCIES
5. The National Board of Directors shall have the power to fill vacancies in its own membership until the
next regular session of the National Council, including any vacancy created by the election of a member-
at-large to another capacity on the National Board and installation in such capacity. In filling vacancies,
the National Board shall conform to the requirement of Section 2 of this article.
EMERGENCY POWERS
TERM OF MEMBERS
IN EMERGENCY
6. In the event of an emergency which makes it impossible for the National Council to meet, all the
powers of the National Council, except the conducting of elections, shall, to the extent permissible by
law, be automatically conferred on the National Board of Directors until such time as a session of the
National Council can be held. Action taken by the National Board of Directors under these emergency
powers shall be reported to the National Council at its next session. In such an emergency, the term of
office of all members of the National Board of Directors and National Board Development Committee
shall be extended until elections are held and successors installed at the next regular session of the
National Council. Such an extended term shall be considered to be one term of office.
OFFICERS
ARTICLE XI OFFICERS
OF THE CORPORATION
1. The officers of the corporation shall be the President, who shall have the working title Chair of the
National Board of Directors; the First and Second Vice Presidents, who shall have the working titles of
Vice Chairs; the Secretary; the Treasurer; the Chief Executive Officer; and such other officers as the
Bylaws may provide.
ELECTION TERM
MAXIMUM NUMBER
OF TERMS
2. The President, the Vice Presidents, the Secretary, and the Treasurer shall be elected by the National
Council at each regular session to serve a three-year term beginning at the time of the installation at the
session when elected and ending upon the installation of their successors at the next regular session of
the National Council. Each person shall serve no more than three consecutive terms in any one or any
combination of these offices. Regardless of the number of consecutive terms any person shall have
served in any one or any combination of these offices other than that of President, such person shall be
eligible for two consecutive terms as President.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER &
OTHER OFFICERS
3. The Chief Executive Officer shall be appointed by the National Board of Directors to hold office at its
pleasure. Such other officers as the National Board of Directors may deem necessary may be elected or
appointed by the National Board as provided in the Bylaws.
VACANCIES
4. A vacancy among the officers of the corporation shall be filled by the National Board of Directors for
the remainder of the unexpired term.
PAST PRESIDENTS
5. In recognition of distinguished service, all Past Presidents of Girl Scouts of the United States of
America shall be honorary officers and members of the National Council with full voting rights.
HONORARY OFFICERS
6. The National Council may elect distinguished citizens as honorary officers of the National Council.
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NATIONAL BOARD
DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
ARTICLE XII NATIONAL BOARD DEVELOPMENT
COMMITTEE, NOMINATIONS, AND ELECTIONS
MEMBERSHIP RELATIONSHIP
TO NATIONAL BOARD
1. The National Board Development Committee shall consist of seven (7) members, including the chair of
the committee; the CEO of Girl Scouts of the United States of America shall serve as an ex officio
nonvoting member. Between meetings of the National Council, the National Board Development
Committee shall work in partnership with and report to the National Board of Directors.
COMPOSITION
2. At least two (2) members shall be members of the National Board of Directors and at least
three (3) members shall be non-National Board members.
ELECTION
3. Members shall be elected by the National Council.
TERMS OF OFFICE
4. The term of office shall commence at the adjournment of the National Council Session when elected,
and shall end at the adjournment of the next regular session, or until successors are elected and assume
office.
TERM LIMITS
05. At least two (2) members, but no more than three (3), shall serve a second consecutive term. No
individual shall serve more than two (2) consecutive terms as a member of the committee.
APPOINTMENT & APPROVAL
OF CHAIR
6. The chair of the committee shall be appointed by the President from amongst the members of the
National Board Development Committee and approved by either the Executive Committee or the
National Board. Individual(s) shall serve no more than one (1) term as chair of the National Board
Development Committee.
VICE CHAIR ELECTION
7. The committee shall elect a Vice Chair from amongst its membership.
VACANCIES
8. A vacancy in any position, including the chair, shall be filled by the National Board for the unexpired
term.
SINGLE SLATE OF NOMINEES
9. The committee shall present at each regular session of the National Council a single slate of
nominees for: a) the President; b) the Vice Presidents; c) the Secretary; d) the Treasurer; e) members-at-
large of the National Board of Directors; and f) members of the National Board Development Committee.
No member of the National Board Development Committee shall be eligible to be nominated for any
officer position. A nominee for President shall be a current member of the National Board of Directors.
NOMINATIONS FROM FLOOR
10. Nominations may be made from the floor of the National Council Session provided that notice of
such nomination and written consent to serve by the nominee(s) shall have been provided to the
President and the Chair of the National Board Development Committee at least forty-eight (48) hours
prior to the published time for the convening of the meeting at which the election shall be held.
VOTES REQUIRED
FOR ELECTION
11. Election to any position on the National Board or the National Board Development Committee shall
require a majority of votes cast by those present and voting at the National Council Session.
BALLOTS
12. Elections shall be by ballot, including electronic balloting, except if there is only one nominee for a
position, the election may be held by acclamation.
REMOVAL
FROM COMMITTEE
13. Any National Board Development Committee member who is absent from two (2) consecutive
National Board Development Committee meetings in their entirety without good cause, acceptable to
the National Board Development Committee Chair, upon recommendation of the National Board
Development Committee to the National Board of Directors, shall be removed from the National Board
Development Committee by a majority vote of the National Board members present and voting at any
regular meeting of the National Board of Directors. Further, upon recommendation of the National
Board Development Committee to the National Board of Directors, a National Board Development
Committee member may be removed with or without cause by a three-fourths vote of the total number
of the National Board of Directors.
PARTIAL TERMS
ARTICLE XIII PARTIAL TERMS
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A person who has served more than half of a specific term, as that specific term is set forth in the
Constitution or Bylaws, shall be considered to have served the full term.
FINANCE
ARTICLE XIV FINANCE
CONTRIBUTIONS
1. Contributions for the purposes of this corporation shall be collected only as authorized by the National
Council or the National Board of Directors.
DEBTS
2. Debts of the corporation shall be incurred only as directed by resolution of the National Council or the
National Board of Directors.
LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY
3. The corporation shall not be liable for the debts of any local council or other unit holding a credential
or any group of members of the Movement, or any representative of any such unit or group, or any
representative of this corporation unless incurred by resolution of the National Council or National Board
of Directors.
INSIGNIA
ARTICLE XV INSIGNIA
TREFOIL, BADGES,
INSIGNIA & UNIFORMS
The official emblem of the Girl Scout Movement in the United States is the trefoil. The badges, insignia,
and uniforms of Girl Scouts of the United States of America shall be protected to the fullest extent
possible and shall be made available to and used only by members registered with Girl Scouts of the
United States of America, or persons authorized by the National Board of Directors.
BYLAWS
ARTICLE XVI BYLAWS
ADOPTION
The National Council or the National Board of Directors shall have power to adopt Bylaws not
inconsistent with this Constitution, the Congressional Charter, or other applicable laws.
AMENDMENTS
ARTICLE XVII AMENDMENTS
VOTE BY NATIONAL COUNCIL
RECOMMENDATION BY
NATIONAL BOARD
AMENDMENT TO AN
AMENDMENT
This Constitution may be amended by a two-thirds vote of those present and voting at any session of the
National Council, provided that the National Board of Directors, in its sole discretion, shall have deemed
the proposed amendment appropriate as an amendment and provided that it shall have been included
in the call of the session together with the National Board’s recommendation thereon. An amendment to
an amendment properly before any session of the National Council may be made by a majority vote of
those present and voting in accordance with the rules governing the session, provided the proposed
amendment thereto does not alter the intent or increase the scope of the amendment acted upon by
the National Board of Directors.
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BYLAWS
OF GIRL SCOUTS OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
NATIONAL BOARD
OF DIRECTORS
ARTICLE I MEETINGS OF THE NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS
REGULAR MEETINGS
1. The National Board of Directors (hereinafter referred to as the “National Board”) shall hold at least
two regular meetings a year. Meetings shall be held at such date, time, and place as the National Board
may direct. Notice of date, time, and place of each meeting shall be provided to each member of the
National Board not less than 10 days before the meeting.
SPECIAL MEETINGS
2. Special meetings may be called by the President and shall be called by the President upon the request
of at least 10 members of the National Board. Notice of date, time, place, and purpose of a special
meeting shall be provided in advance to each member of the National Board.
QUORUM
3. A majority of the National Board members must be present (in person or linked by telecommunication
or by means such that all members participating in the meeting are able to hear one another) to
constitute a quorum.
OFFICERS
ARTICLE II OFFICERS
DUTIES OF OFFICERS
1. The officers shall perform the duties prescribed in this Article and such other duties as are prescribed
for the office in the Constitution or Bylaws of GSUSA, by the National Board, the Executive Committee,
the National Council, the President, and in the adopted parliamentary authority, as well as such other
duties as are usual to this office.
PRESIDENT
A. The President, who shall have the working title of Chair of the National Board, shall:
i. be the principal officer of the corporation;
ii. preside at all meetings of the National Council, the National Board, and the Executive
Committee, except at such meetings for which the duty of presiding is delegated to the First
Vice President, the Second Vice President, the Secretary, the Treasurer, any member-at-large of
the National Board of Directors, or, for any session of the National Council, the parliamentarian
or any girl delegate in furtherance of the Girl Scout mission to educate girls to be tomorrow’s
leaders;
iii. see that the lines of direction given by the National Council and the action of the National
Board are carried into effect;
iv. report to the National Council and the National Board as to the conduct and management of
the affairs of the corporation; and
v. serve ex officio as a member of all committees established by the National Board.
FIRST VICE PRESIDENT
B. The First Vice President, who shall have the working title of First Vice Chair, shall:
i. assist the President with any and all duties assigned by the President;
ii. preside at meetings of the National Council, the National Board, or the Executive Committee in
the absence or inability of the President, or when delegated the responsibility of presiding; and
iii. in the event of the vacancy in the office of President, succeed to the office for the unexpired
term.
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SECOND VICE PRESIDENT
C. The Second Vice President, who shall have the working title of Second Vice Chair, shall:
i. assist the President with any and all duties assigned by the President;
ii. preside at meetings of the National Council, the National Board, or the Executive Committee in
the absence of the President and First Vice President or in the President’s and First Vice
President’s inability to preside or when delegated the responsibility of presiding; and
iii. in the event of the vacancy in both the offices of President and First Vice President, succeed to
the office of President for the unexpired term.
SECRETARY
D. The Secretary shall:
i. ensure that proper notice is given for all meetings of the National Council, the National Board,
and the Executive Committee;
ii. ensure that minutes of all meetings of the National Council, the National Board, and the
Executive Committee are kept;
iii. have responsibility for the seal of the corporation and ensure its safekeeping; and
iv. preside at meetings of the National Council, the National Board, or the Executive Committee
when delegated the responsibility of presiding.
TREASURER
E. The Treasurer shall:
i. provide effective stewardship, control, and oversight of the corporation’s finances;
ii. execute directives of the National Board in connection with all financial issues including, but
not limited to:
a. the receipt, custody, disbursement, and borrowing of money;
b. the receipt, custody, and disposal of securities;
iii. execute, in the name of the corporation, all contracts or other instruments authorized by the
National Board;
iv. serve as a member, or chair, of the Finance Committee; and
v. preside at meetings of the National Council, the National Board, or the Executive Committee,
when delegated the responsibility of presiding.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
F. The Chief Executive Officer, hereinafter referred to as the “CEO,” shall:
i. be responsible to the National Board;
ii. serve ex officio without vote as a member of the National Board; and
iii. perform such duties as prescribed by the National Board.
INTERNATIONAL
COMMISSIONER
ARTICLE III INTERNATIONAL COMMISSIONER
The President shall appoint from among the members of the National Board the International
Commissioner, who shall assist the President in the work with the World Association of Girl Guides and
Girl Scouts.
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EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
ARTICLE IV EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
COMPOSITION
1. Composition. The Executive Committee shall consist of no more than 11 members, as follows:
A. The President, the First Vice President, the Second Vice President, the Secretary, and the
Treasurer;
B. The Chair of the National Board Development Committee;
C. The International Commissioner;
D. Up to four members-at-large, appointed by the President;
E. The CEO, who shall serve as an ex officio member without vote.
DUTIES
2. Duties.
A. Authority Between Board Meetings. The Executive Committee shall exercise the authority of
the National Board between meetings of the National Board except that the Executive
Committee shall not (except in the case of an emergency when these powers are deemed to be
delegated):
i. determine what reports and proposals are to be submitted to the National
Council;
ii. approve the budget;
iii. adopt or amend the Bylaws of GSUSA;
iv. fill vacancies on the Board of Directors or on any committees of the Board.
B. Reports. The Executive Committee shall submit to the National Board reports of all actions
taken between meetings of the National Board.
MEETINGS
3. Meetings. The Executive Committee shall meet as needed. Notice of date, time, and place of such
meetings shall be provided in advance to each member of the Executive Committee. Such meetings shall
be called by the Chair. Special meetings may be called by either the Chair or upon the written request of
at least four members. Notice of date, time, place, and purpose of a special meeting shall be provided in
advance to each member of the Executive Committee.
QUORUM
4. Quorum. A majority of the Executive Committee members then in office must be present (in person or
linked by telecommunication or by means such that all members participating in the meeting are able to
hear one another) to constitute a quorum for transaction of business.
COMMITTEES
ARTICLE V COMMITTEES
ESTABLISHMENT
1. The National Board has the authority to establish standing committees of the board and advisory
committees. The National Board shall establish the functions of these committees, which shall operate
under the general supervision of the National Board.
APPOINTMENT OF CHAIRS
TERM
2. Except where otherwise provided in the Constitution and Bylaws, the chairs of standing committees of
the National Board shall be recommended by the President from members of the National Board, and
approved by a majority of all the National Board members in office when the action is taken, for a term
beginning at the time of the approval of the appointment and ending at the close of the next regular
session of the National Council. No individual shall serve as the chair of the same committee for more
than two consecutive terms.
APPOINTMENT OF MEMBERS
TERM
3. Members of standing committees established by the National Board shall be National Board members
recommended by the President, in consultation with the chair of the respective committee, and
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approved by a majority of all the National Board members in office when the action is taken, for a term
beginning at the time of the approval of the appointment and ending at the close of the next regular
session of the National Council. No individual shall serve as a member of the same committee for more
than three consecutive terms. Members of advisory committees need not be members of the National
Board.
FINANCE
ARTICLE VI FINANCE
FISCAL YEAR
1. The fiscal year of the corporation shall begin on October 1 and shall end on September 30.
EXAMINATION OF ACCOUNTS
2. Certified public accountants shall be retained by the National Board to make an annual examination of
the financial accounts of the corporation. The certified public accountants shall submit a report of this
examination to the National Board.
BONDING
3. All persons having access to or responsibility for the handling of monies and securities shall be
bonded.
APPROVED SIGNATURES
ACCESS TO SECURITIES
4. a. The National Board shall designate the monetary limit at which transactions as defined in
4c, in amounts equal to or in excess of the limit, shall require the signature/approval of the
Treasurer, or one of the Treasurer’s nominees, and the signature/approval of the CFO, or
one of the CFO’s nominees, such nominees having been approved by either the Executive
Committee or the National Board.
b. Transactions as defined in 4c and in an amount less than the monetary limit designated
by the National Board shall require the signature/approval of the Treasurer, or one of the
Treasurer’s nominees, or the signature/approval of the CFO, or one of the CFO’s
nominees, such nominees having been approved by either the Executive Committee or the
National Board.
c. Transactions shall include checks, drafts, notes, orders, sales of securities, electronic
funds transactions, and other forms of electronic commerce that the National Board may
deem appropriate.
d. The National Board shall approve means other than original signatures by which approval
is effected.
e. Access to securities held by the corporation shall be by two persons, namely the
Treasurer or President, or their approved nominees, and by the CFO or the CFO’s
nominees, such nominees having been approved by either the Executive Committee or the
National Board.
INDEMNIFICATION
ARTICLE VII INDEMNIFICATION
This corporation shall indemnify directors and officers against losses actually and reasonably incurred in
connection with the defense of any action, suit, or proceeding relating to the performance of their duties
to the extent permitted by law.
BLUE BOOK OF BASIC
DOCUMENTS
ARTICLE VIII BLUE BOOK OF BASIC DOCUMENTS
DISTRIBUTION
CONTENTS
A Blue Book of Basic Documents shall be published and distributed, which shall contain the Congressional
Charter, the Constitution and Bylaws, requirements for credentials as established by the National
Council, and such other material as the National Board shall direct.
GEOGRAPHICAL AREAS
ARTICLE IX GEOGRAPHICAL AREAS
Geographical areas, as referenced in the Constitution of GSUSA, shall consist of the following:
Geographical Area 1: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York,
Rhode Island, Vermont, Puerto Rico, and the United States Virgin Islands
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Geographical Area 2: Delaware, District of Columbia, Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Pennsylvania,
Virginia, and West Virginia
Geographical Area 3: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South
Carolina, and Tennessee
Geographical Area 4: Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin
Geographical Area 5: Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma,
Texas, and Wyoming
Geographical Area 6: Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah,
Washington, American Samoa, Guam, and Northern Mariana Islands
PARLIAMENTARY
AUTHORITY
ARTICLE X PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITY
ROBERT’S RULES OF ORDER
NEWLY REVISED
The current edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised shall be the parliamentary authority of Girl
Scouts of the USA.
AMENDMENTS
ARTICLE XI AMENDMENTS
These Bylaws may be amended by a majority of those present (in person or linked by telecommunication
as described under Article I, Section 3, of the Bylaws) and voting at any meeting of the National Board, or
present and voting at any meeting of the National Council, provided that the proposed amendment shall
have been included in the call for the meeting.
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ENDORSEMENTS/TRADEMARK/
MARKETING/INTERNET SALES
PERMISSION FOR COMMERCIAL ENDORSEMENTS
Permission to endorse commercial products or to give
endorsement of such by implication must be obtained from Girl
Scouts of the United States of America and shall be granted only
when such endorsement is in keeping with Girl Scout principles
and activities.
AUTHORIZATION OF BOOKS, PLAYS, MOTION PICTURES, RADIO
AND TV PROGRAMS ABOUT GIRL SCOUTING
A book, play, motion picture, or radio or television program
about Girl Scouts or Girl Scouting shall be accepted as authorized
by Girl Scouts of the United States of America only when the
script, manuscript, or proof has been approved by Girl Scouts of
the United States of America.
INDIVIDUAL TESTIMONIALS
Individual members of the Girl Scout Movement shall not allow
their names, in their Girl Scout capacities, to be used in
advertising testimonials directly or indirectly endorsing any
product or service.
POLITICAL AND LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITY
Girl Scouts of the United States of America and any Girl Scout
council or other organization holding a Girl Scouts of the United
States of America credential may not, nor may they authorize
anyone on their behalf to, participate or intervene directly or
indirectly in any political campaign on behalf of or in opposition
to any candidate for public office; or participate in any legislative
activity or function which contravenes the laws governing tax-
exempt organizations.
GIRL SCOUT TRADEMARK
Every product sold in connection with a Girl Scout council-
sponsored product sale shall bear the Girl Scout name and
service mark, either on the product or on its packaging. Every
item bearing any of the registered Girl Scout names, logos, or
marks purchased or developed for resale,
2
including items to be
sold in council-sponsored product sales, shall be purchased (1)
from a GSUSA-licensed vendor, (2) from Girl Scout Merchandise,
or (3) produced with prior approval from GSUSA when items are
not readily available from a licensed supplier.
Every item bearing the Girl Scout name and service mark,
including items for resale or non-resale
3
by councils, shall
conform to the Girl Scout Graphic Guidelines published by
GSUSA. Items used for both resale and non-resale shall adhere to
the stipulations stated above for resale items.
2. “Resale” is defined as any item resold or given away in connection with an event for which a
fee, price, or admission is paid. This includes, but is not limited to, product sales.
CAUSE-RELATED MARKETING
GSUSA may develop alliances and relationships with
corporations and businesses for the purposes of advancing Girl
Scouting. A Girl Scout council may develop similar alliances with
businesses within its jurisdiction, or may work in partnership
with GSUSA to develop strategic alliances outside of its
jurisdiction. These corporations must have policies and
operations compatible with the values of Girl Scouting. The
guiding principles for such relationships shall be as follows:
• the Girl Scout image will be preserved and enhanced;
• significant revenue and/or visibility will be generated;
• program activities will be enriched;
• membership outreach efforts will be supported; and
• the integrity and financial well-being of GSUSA and Girl
Scout councils will be maintained or enriched.
INTERNET SALES
For safety and security reasons, sales
4
and marketing
5
on
the Internet for any Girl Scout troop/group money-earning
activities may not be conducted by individual girls, parents, or
other adults except as provided for in the Girl Scouts of the USA
Product Program Guidelines and with appropriate parental
permission.
Sales on the Internet of Girl Scout merchandise, such as
uniforms, insignia, publications, and equipment may only be
conducted by duly authorized and licensed Girl Scout councils,
council shops, retail agencies, and/or GSUSA-licensed vendors.
Permission to sell on the Internet must be obtained from GSUSA.
3. “Non-resale” is defined as any item provided, consumed, or used for the promotion and
delivery of Girl Scouts program. This includes items given as donor recognitions.
4. Sales on the Internet include any financial transaction concluded on any website, including
online auctions or public sale sites.
5. Marketing includes advertising the sale and the solicitation and receipt of order
commitments.
POLICIES
OF GIRL SCOUTS OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
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FUNDRAISING
FUNDRAISING METHODS
All fundraising methods employed by Girl Scout groups must be
in keeping with the principles for which the organization stands.
FUNDRAISING BY GIRL SCOUTS OF THE UNITED STATES
OF AMERICA AND GIRL SCOUT COUNCILS
Fundraising to promote the interests of the Girl Scout Movement
may be conducted by Girl Scouts of the United States of America
and Girl Scout councils both independently and collaboratively.
GSUSA and councils are encouraged to work together to
maximize contributions to Girl Scouting.
Solicitation of Corporations and Foundations
GSUSA requests for funding shall be initiated only after
consultation with the council serving the jurisdiction where the
funding source directs that solicitations be received. Prior to
solicitation of a corporation or foundation located outside a
council’s jurisdiction, the initiating council shall consult with the
council serving the jurisdiction where the funding source directs
that solicitations be received.
OWNERSHIP OF ASSETS
All money and other assets, including property, that are raised,
earned, or otherwise received in the name of and for the benefit
of Girl Scouting must be held and authorized by a Girl Scout
council or Girl Scouts of the USA. Such money and other assets
must be used for the purposes of Girl Scouting. They are the
property of and are administered by the Girl Scout council or Girl
Scouts of the USA and shall not be sold, given, transferred, or
conveyed to a third party for less than fair market value. Such
assets are not the property of individuals, troops, geographic
units, subordinate units, or communities within a Girl Scout
council.
FAMILY SOLICITATION
Financial support for Girl Scout councils is derived from the
broader community. Local councils are encouraged to solicit the
families of girl members for voluntary financial support as one
part of an overall fundraising campaign. This may be done at the
time of membership registration. Any such family contribution
shall be voluntary, not a prerequisite for membership, and not
considered a fee for local council services.
SOLICITATION OF CONTRIBUTIONS
Adult members in their Girl Scout capacities may not solicit
financial contributions for purposes other than Girl Scouting.
Adults may engage in combined fundraising efforts authorized by
the Girl Scout council and in which the local council is a
beneficiary. Girl members may not engage in any direct
solicitation for money except for Girl Scout Seniors and
Ambassadors, who may solicit philanthropic donations to their
councils of cash or in- kind goods for Girl Scout Gold Award
projects, provided they have secured prior written permission
from their council's Chief Executive Officer, Chief Development
Officer, or their designee.
In addition, girls must abide by their own council's policies and
procedures with regard to this matter. The National CEO in
consultation with the National Board Chair may give permission
to raise money in times of a major national
or international emergency, with prior written notice to the
National Board. Councils will be notified of this action in writing.
JULIETTE LOW WORLD FRIENDSHIP FUND
All monies collected for the Juliette Low World Friendship Fund
must be used “for the promotion of Girl Guiding and Girl
Scouting throughout the world as a contribution toward world
peace and goodwill” and shall be administered by the National
Board of Directors of Girl Scouts of the United States of America
in its sole discretion. (The resolution creating the Juliette Low
World Friendship Fund was adopted by the National Council,
October 1927.)
GIRL SCOUTS NATIONAL GOLD AWARD SCHOLARSHIP FUND
All monies raised for the donor-restricted Girl Scouts National
Gold Award Scholarship Fund are designated to be used for the
development and support of a Girl Scout Gold Award scholarship
program.
GIRL SCOUT COUNCIL/USAGSO
GIRL SCOUT COUNCIL AUTHORITY AND RESPONSIBILITY
Within the terms of its charter, a Girl Scout council shall have the
authority and responsibility to: provide and safeguard the Girl
Scout program, build an organization to serve its membership,
secure and direct personnel, extend membership opportunities
to all girls within its jurisdiction, finance its work, and develop its
community and public relationships. A Girl Scout council shall not
have the authority to establish any form of local council
membership dues; however, Girl Scout councils may charge an
annual council service fee for girl members, not to exceed the
amount charged by GSUSA for annual membership dues.* A Girl
Scout council shall not use membership dues collected from girls
and adults registering with GSUSA through the council as a
source of investment income. The local council shall be
accountable to the National Board of Directors of Girl Scouts of
the United States of America for proper exercise of this
authority.
*The annual council service fee was created by action of the National Council in 2011. It
provides councils with the option of assessing a fee to help cover costs related to the
administration of Girl Scout program for girls. The amount of the fee is determined by the
individual council and cannot exceed the cost of the full-year annual membership dues set by
GSUSA for the year that the annual council service fee is being charged. This is a girl fee and
only applies to girl members.
Any council charging an annual council service fee must charge the fee consistently, to all girls,
throughout the entire membership year, including early registration. Funds must be collected
at the time that GSUSA dues are collected.
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TROOPS AND COMMUNITIES WITHIN A GIRL SCOUT COUNCIL
JURISDICTION
When a Girl Scout council is chartered and the territory in which
it is to operate has been decided upon, all Girl Scout troops in all
the communities within that territory shall be under its
jurisdiction, and the Girl Scouts of the United States of America
shall act through the local council in its relations with these
troops and communities.
ADMINISTRATION OF GIRL SCOUT CAMPING
All types of Girl Scout camping must be under the administration
of a Girl Scout council or group licensed by Girl Scouts of the
United States of America, except that camping by members of
USA Girl Scouts Overseas (USAGSO) may be authorized by a
USAGSO committee.
USA GIRL SCOUTS OVERSEAS COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITY
Every member of USA Girl Scouts Overseas must be affiliated
with a USA Girl Scouts Overseas Committee, which shall accept
responsibility for: seeing that overseas committee members,
leaders, and girls meet individual membership requirements;
seeing that each person subscribes to the purpose, adheres to
the policies, and maintains the standards of Girl Scouts of the
USA; securing and endorsing the leaders; and seeing that the
work is financed and authorizing the methods and manner of
collecting funds raised in the name of Girl Scouting.
MEMBERSHIP REGISTRATION/
SECURITY OF MEMBERSHIP DATA
MEMBERSHIP REGISTRATION
All girls and adults participating in the Girl Scout Movement shall
be registered as members with Girl Scouts of the United States
of America and individually pay the annual, or other applicable
membership dues, except those adults who are lifetime
members or who are working in a temporary advisory or
consultative capacity.
SECURITY OF GIRL SCOUT MEMBERSHIP DATA AND RESTRICTED
USE OF MEMBERSHIP AND MAILING LISTS
The release and distribution of any Girl Scout membership
list to a Girl Scout council or non–Girl Scout entity, or the release
of any data or information on Girl Scout members, is prohibited
except upon approval by the Girl Scouts of the United States of
America. All Girl Scout councils and USA Girl Scouts Overseas
locations accessing or transmitting membership information
electronically must be in compliance with this security policy and
all other GSUSA security procedures, policies, and standards, as
well as all applicable local, state, and federal laws.
Security of Membership Data
Girl Scout councils and USA Girl Scouts Overseas use the GSUSA
membership technology platform to register members with Girl
Scouts of the USA, and the following procedures are in effect:
To obtain and retain access to the GSUSA membership
technology platform, every Girl Scout council must sign a written
agreement, which defines the terms and conditions established
by GSUSA.
Every Girl Scout council and USA Girl Scouts Overseas committee
must abide by GSUSA’s security policies,
standards, and confidentiality and nondisclosure agreements.
Every Girl Scout council must consent to periodic audits by
GSUSA, such as the annual review, to ensure compliance with
technical configuration standards, security policies, and GSUSA
and governmental security and privacy standards.
PLURALISM AND DIVERSITY/
HUMAN RESOURCES
PLURALISM AND DIVERSITY IN GIRL MEMBERSHIP
All Girl Scout councils and USA Girl Scouts Overseas committees
shall be responsible for seeing that membership is reflective of
the pluralistic nature of their populations and that membership
is extended to all girls in all population segments and geographic
areas in their jurisdictions. A girl who meets or can meet
membership requirements shall not be denied admission or
access to Girl Scout program because of race, color, ethnicity,
creed, national origin, socioeconomic status, or disability.
Reasonable accommodations shall be made for girls with
disabilities to ensure that girls have access to activities.
SELECTION OF ADULTS
Every adult volunteer and executive staff member in Girl
Scouting must be selected on the basis of qualifications for
membership, ability to perform the job, and willingness and
availability to participate in training for it. In selection of adults,
there shall be no discrimination on the basis of race, color,
ethnicity, sex, creed, national origin, or socioeconomic status.
There shall be no discrimination against an otherwise qualified
individual by reason of disability or on the basis of age. Members
of Girl Scout council boards of directors and the National Board
of Directors shall be selected so that the boards of directors
represent diverse population groups and can bring to their
deliberations a variety of points of view and life experiences, as
well as access to cultural, religious, educational, civic, and
economic resources. Executive staff shall be selected as needed
to provide managerial and specialist expertise, research
capability, and continuity to support the delivery of program to
girls through volunteers.
AFFIRMATIVE ACTION FOR VOLUNTEERS
There shall be no discrimination against an otherwise qualified
adult volunteer by reason of disability or on the basis of age.
Furthermore, there shall be no discrimination on the basis of
race, color, ethnicity, sex, creed, national origin, or
socioeconomic status. In addition, to ensure full equality of
opportunity in all operations and activities of the organization,
affirmative action policies and procedures shall be utilized in the
recruitment, selection, training, placement, and recognition of
volunteers. Special emphasis shall be placed upon securing
representation of underrepresented population groups.
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EEO/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION FOR EMPLOYED STAFF
There shall be no discrimination on the basis of race, color,
creed, sex, age, disability, national origin, citizenship, or marital
status. In addition, to ensure full equality of opportunity in all
operations and activities of the organization, every staff member
employed in Girl Scouting shall be selected under fair
employment procedures that provide equal employment
opportunities to all people.
There shall be special efforts in affirmative action in the
recruitment, hiring, training, and promotion of persons from
underutilized ethnically and racially diverse groups and
individuals with disabilities, and to make reasonable
accommodations for physical and mental limitations of
employees and applicants consistent with performance of
essential job functions and the effective operations of the
business.
GRIEVANCE/SEPARATION OF EMPLOYED STAFF
Every person employed in Girl Scouting shall be protected by fair
personnel policies and procedures, including formal problem
resolution procedures.
HEALTH AND SAFETY
Girl Scouts of the United States of America, local councils, other
units holding a credential, and USA Girl Scouts Overseas
committees shall be responsible for seeing that all activities are
planned and carried out so as to safeguard the health, safety,
and general well-being of the participants.
SELECTION OF NATIONAL MEETING PLACES
Gatherings planned and held by the national Girl Scout
organization for nationwide attendance shall be held in
communities where individuals attending will have freedom of
choice in seating, eating, and living accommodations in hotels
and buildings engaged by the organization.
SPIRITUALITY/RELIGION
FLEXIBILITY IN WORDING FOR SPIRITUAL BELIEFS
IN THE GIRL SCOUT PROMISE
Girl Scouts of the USA makes no attempt to define or interpret
the word “God” in the Girl Scout Promise. It looks to individual
members to establish for themselves the nature of their spiritual
beliefs. When making the Girl Scout Promise, individuals may
substitute wording appropriate to their own spiritual beliefs for
the word “God.”
PLACE OF RELIGION IN THE GIRL SCOUT PROGRAM
Girls are encouraged and helped through the Girl Scout program
to become better members of their own religious group, but
every Girl Scout group must recognize that religious instruction is
the responsibility of parents and religious leaders.
RESPECT FOR RELIGIOUS OPINIONS AND PRACTICES
Every Girl Scout group shall respect the varying religious opinions
and practices of its membership in planning and conducting
activities.
TROOPS SPONSOREDBY RELIGIOUS GROUPS
When a Girl Scout troop is sponsored by one religious group,
members of different faiths or religious affiliations within the
troop shall not be required to take part in religious observance
of the sponsoring group.
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CERTIFICATE OF MEMBERSHIP
A certificate of membership is issued to each girl or adult who
meets the requirements for membership. Credentials that the
National Board of Directors issues, other than the certificate of
membership, include the Girl Scout council charter, the Girl
Scout license, and the federation certificate (not in use at
present).
Girl Scouts of the United States of America authorizes USA Girl
Scouts Overseas in communities outside the U.S.A. where there
is no chartered Girl Scout council. These troops are known
collectively as USA Girl Scouts Overseas.
MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS
Membership as a Girl Scout is granted to any girl who:
• has made the Girl Scout Promise
6
and accepted the Girl
Scout Law;
• has paid annual, or other applicable membership dues;
• meets applicable membership standards.
Membership as a Girl Scout adult is granted to any person who:
• accepts the principles and beliefs as stated in the
Preamble of the Constitution;
• has paid annual, lifetime, or other applicable
membership dues;
• meets applicable membership standards.
Lifetime membership as a Girl Scout adult is granted to any
person (18 years of age or older or a high school graduate or
equivalent) who:
accepts the principles and beliefs as stated in the Preamble of
the Constitution;
has paid lifetime membership dues;
meets applicable membership standards.
6. See page 22, “Flexibility in Wording for Spiritual Beliefs in the Girl Scout Promise.”
APPLICABLE MEMBERSHIP STANDARDS
Membership standards are not credentials. They are included
here only for ready reference in relation to membership
requirements. Applicable membership standards are as follows:
Girl Scout Membership Levels
Kindergarten–1 Girl Scout Daisy
Grade 2–3 Girl Scout Brownie
Grade 4–5 Girl Scout Junior
Grade 6–8 Girl Scout Cadette
Grade 9–10 Girl Scout Senior
Grade 11–12 Girl Scout Ambassador
Girl Scout Adults
Minimum age—18 years of age or a high school graduate or
equivalent.
MEMBERSHIP DUES AND PROCEDURES
FOR REGISTRATION
In order to be a member of the Girl Scout Movement in the
United States of America, a person must register with and pay
annual, lifetime or other applicable membership dues to Girl
Scouts of the United States of America. This is done locally
through the Girl Scout council or USA Girl Scouts Overseas
committee with which she or he is affiliated or through national
headquarters if she or he has no council affiliation. The National
Board of Directors must obtain approval from the National
Council whenever a planned dues increase will result in dues
increasing more than a total of 25% in any one triennium. Girl
Scout councils account for membership dues in the custodian
fund and transmit to GSUSA within two months of receipt all
monies received for membership dues. These funds are not to be
invested by the council for the purpose of generating income for
the council.
The Girl Scout membership year is October 1 through
September 30.
New girl members pay $25 when they initially become members
of the Movement.
New adult members pay $25 when they initially become
members of the Movement.
Extended year option: New girl and adult members who sign up
on or between April 1-September 30 of a membership year may
elect to pay $35 and their membership will start immediately
and continue through the end of the following membership year.
This option is available on a one-time basis for new girl and adult
members only; upon renewal, such individuals pay $25 for a
regular membership year.*
CREDENTIALS
(SEE CONSTITUTION, ARTICLE VIII)
* One-time lapsed member option: Girls and adults who were previously members but did not
purchase a 2021 membership are also eligible for this extended year option for MY 2021 – 2022
if they elect to renew from April 1, 2021 through September 30, 2021. If renewed during that
time period, they may pay $35 and their membership will start immediately and continue
through September 2022. Upon renewal, such individuals pay $25 for a regular membership
year.
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Continuing members, both girls and adults, pay $25 when they
renew their membership at the beginning of each membership
year.
Lifetime members pay $400 lifetime membership dues at the
time they become lifetime members; discounted lifetime
membership dues of $200 shall be offered to anyone who was a
registered Girl Scout member before the age of 18 and is under
the age of 30 at the time of becoming a lifetime member;
discounted lifetime membership dues of $200 shall be offered to
anyone who is a registered member and has served as a
volunteer for a period of 10 or more years at the time of
becoming a lifetime member.
When a member transfers from one troop/group or position to
another or to another local council, the member does not re-
register until her/his current membership expires at the
beginning of the next membership year.
The national organization determines the system and method for
registering members through Girl Scout councils. Each Girl Scout
council verifies the accuracy of the troop/group and/or
individual member information and forwards it with the
membership dues directly to national headquarters.
National Board members, other National Board committee
members, including Advisory Committee members, other
national volunteers, and other adult members who have their
contact only with the national organization use registration
forms received from the national organization. They forward the
completed registration forms and dues directly to national
headquarters.
USA Girl Scouts Overseas use registration forms received from
the national organization. They also forward the completed
registration forms and dues directly to national headquarters.
The membership dues of one person may not be transferred to
the credit of another person. Membership dues are not
refundable.
Adults serving in more than one Girl Scout position pay
membership dues only once annually.
COMMUNICATIONS PROCEDURES FOR NATIONAL
BOARD DUES CHANGES
Prior to any vote by the National Board to change membership
dues structure or amount, Girl Scouts of the USA shall
communicate with and seek input from all local Girl Scout
councils and National Council delegates on the proposed
changes, intended use of the funds, and potential impact on the
Girl Scout Movement. After action is taken by the National
Board, there shall be a report to all local Girl Scout councils and
National Council delegates of the decision taken and the impact
of the dues change.
GIRL SCOUT COUNCIL CHARTER
A Girl Scout council charter is a credential issued by the National
Board of Directors of Girl Scouts of the USA in accordance with
the Constitution of Girl Scouts of the USA, Article VII and Article
VIII. A Girl Scout council charter defines the relationship
between a council and Girl Scouts of the USA. It binds the
elements of Girl Scouting across the nation into one large and
cohesive Girl Scout Movement and gives us a common purpose.
A Girl Scout council charter is issued by the National Board of
Directors of Girl Scouts of the USA to an organization exclusively
devoted to the Girl Scout Movement in the United States,
granting it the right to develop, manage, and maintain Girl
Scouting in a specified area of jurisdiction, which is established
by the National Board of Directors, and to call itself a Girl Scout
council. A Girl Scout council charter is issued for no more than
four years.
REQUIREMENTS FOR A GIRL SCOUT
COUNCIL CHARTER
To receive and retain a charter, a Girl Scout council agrees:
to subscribe to the purpose, adhere to the policies, and be
guided by the standards of Girl Scouts of the USA.
to develop, manage, and maintain Girl Scouting throughout the
areas of its jurisdiction, in such manner and subject to such
limitations as prescribed in the Constitution, Bylaws, and policies
of Girl Scouts of the USA.
to participate in the activities and business of Girl Scouts of the
USA.
to make reports of its work to Girl Scouts of the USA; pay its
charter fee, have at all times a registered board of directors; and
make sure that all persons affiliating with the council meet
individual membership requirements.
CONDITIONS FOR A GIRL SCOUT
COUNCIL CHARTER
The work of a Girl Scout Council shall be based on the charter
criteria.
The charter Criteria are:
A chartered Girl Scout council maximizes delivery of the Girl
Scout mission by engaging and supporting volunteers and others
to provide a nationally consistent quality leadership experience
that achieves positive girl outcomes and reaches increasing
numbers of girls.
A chartered Girl Scout council advances the movement through
strategic governance and leadership that employ effective
systems and structures to deliver the Girl Scout mission.
A chartered Girl Scout council advances organizational impact by
growing resources, effectively promoting a unified national
25
brand and standing up for girls on issues that affect their well-
being.
In addition, a Girl Scout Council must:
comply with federal, state, and local laws as well as Girl Scouts of
the USA policies.
regularly review and file with Girl Scouts of the USA bylaws,
articles of incorporation, and board-adopted strategic priorities.
provide the following documents to Girl Scouts of the USA:
Audit and management letter
Annually
990 Form
Annually
Current Board Member List
Update when changes
occur
Board Minutes/Board Packets
After each board meeting
Name of CEO and Board Chair
When there are changes
Headquarters Address
When there are changes
forward membership dues to Girl Scouts of the USA in a timely
manner (within two months of receipt).
participate in an annual review process with Girl Scouts of the
USA and implement any agreed upon follow-up.
The Charter, when issued to a Girl Scout council, will confer the
following rights:
the right to be identified with the Girl Scout Movement in the
United States of America, which is directed and coordinated by
Girl Scouts of the USA, a member of the World Association of Girl
Guides and Girl Scouts.
the right to use the words “Girl Scouts” as part of the
designation of the council (whether or not incorporated).
the right to use Girl Scout program and the right to use Girl Scout
insignia in connection with that program.
the right to use the trademark “Girl Scouts” and the service mark
as defined in Girl Scouts of the USA’s Graphic Guidelines, on
products or merchandise obtained and used for the day-to-day
operations of the council, including stationery, office supplies,
items with council and camp names, and symbols, brochures,
newsletters, and such items as Girl Scouts of the USA may
hereinafter designate. Any other use of marks or insignia owned
by Girl Scouts of the USA on products or merchandise must be
approved by Girl Scouts of the USA. This includes but is not
limited to merchandise to be sold by the council. This right is
nonexclusive and nontransferable.
the right to develop, manage, and maintain Girl Scouting
throughout the jurisdiction of the council.
the right to receive services from Girl Scouts of the USA.
the right to respond to requests for proposals (RFPs) that are
sent out from time to time by Girl Scouts of the USA.
the right to raise funds in the name of Girl Scouts within the
council’s jurisdiction.
the right, through delegates elected to the National Council of
Girl Scouts of the USA, to participate in the business of Girl
Scouts of the USA.
In accepting a Charter, a Girl Scout Council assumes the
following obligations:
We understand and agree that, in carrying out the terms and
other obligations of the charter, we will act in accordance with
the Constitution and Bylaws of Girl Scouts of the USA and that
the rights and responsibilities granted in the charter are limited
to the aforesaid Constitution and Bylaws.
We also understand and agree that the rights and responsibilities
granted by the charter cannot be delegated, nor can the
jurisdiction for which the charter is sought be changed without
the written authorization of Girl Scouts of the USA.
By agreeing to adhere to the policies of Girl Scouts of the USA,
we understand and agree to operate as a council in accordance
with and to be limited by policies so identified, published, and
distributed to councils by Girl Scouts of the USA, accepting them
as binding on the council, on all its members, officers,
employees, and those affiliating with it.
By agreeing to be guided by the standards of Girl Scouts of the
USA, we understand that as a council we have committed
ourselves and those affiliating with us to follow and be guided by
the standards published from time to time by Girl Scouts of the
USA.
We understand and agree that it is the council’s responsibility to
see that each person affiliating with it meets at all times the
individual membership requirements established by Girl Scouts
of the USA, and to register with Girl Scouts of the USA all girls
and adults participating in Girl Scouting within its jurisdiction,
whether in pathways or in any other capacity, except those
adults working in a temporary advisory or consultative capacity.
We understand and agree that the charter, if accepted may be
revoked or terminated by Girl Scouts of the USA under the
provisions of its Constitution, that the rights conferred by the
charter cease to exist upon termination or revocation of the
charter, and that upon revocation or termination of the charter,
the council can no longer and, therefore, will not exercise any of
the rights granted to it therein.
We understand and agree that the council’s articles of
incorporation and bylaws which are attached to the Girl Scout
Council Charter Agreement are a part of this agreement.
Furthermore, we agree that any changes or amendments to
these documents will be filed with Girl Scouts of the USA in a
timely manner.
We understand and agree to pay the council’s charter fee as
indicated on the Girl Scout Council Charter Agreement.
26
PROCEDURES FOR REVIEWING AND ISSUING GIRL
SCOUT COUNCIL CHARTERS
The council is issued a charter, and the charter is renewed
subject to the steps outlined in the charter procedures:
1. The council engages in a strategy process resulting in council
priorities and goals that are in alignment with GSUSA priorities
and goals.
2. The council completes an Annual Review and submits such
other documents or information as GSUSA requires to evaluate
its performance compared to key national benchmarks and its
own goals. Results of this review are reported to the council
Board of Directors and included in a report to the National
Board.
3. Following action by the National Board of Directors to reaffirm
a council’s charter, a letter is sent from the National Secretary to
the Chair of the Board and the CEO of the council confirming this
action. GSUSA processes the charter agreement and a charter
certificate is sent to the council.
4. If multiple key indicators show shortfalls or negative trends,
an On-Site Review may be initiated by the council or GSUSA to
review key indicators and identify action plans and support
needed. The review team can include national staff, national
volunteers, and council representatives from the council being
reviewed. The review team delivers an in-person report to the
council Board of Directors following the review. A written report
of the action plan is forwarded to GSUSA.
5. A Viability Review may be initiated by Girl Scouts of the USA if
there is evidence or reason to believe one or more of the
following circumstances exists:
a. Action that threatens to undermine the mission and/or
damage the brand.
b. Risk of financial failure or failure to meet financial
obligations.
c. Corporate malfeasance.
d. Disregard for mission-critical GSUSA policies, priorities
and goals or other direction given by the National
Board or CEO.
e. Governance system in violation of US law, council
bylaws, and/or GSUSA policies; and is not consistent,
visible, or effective.
f. Performance against national benchmarks and council
goals continues to be consistently and critically below
standard after an On-Site Review has been conducted.
g. Any act or omission, or any course of conduct that, in
the opinion of the National Board of Directors, is not in
the best interests of Girl Scouting.
PROCEDURES FOR A
CHARTER VIABILITY REVIEW
The review can begin with a minimum of five (5) days notice. The
communication concerning the review will include the specific
concerns that need to be addressed and a timeline for the
review. If circumstances warrant, the Viability Review can be
initiated immediately. The Viability Review Process includes the
following steps.
1. Following National Board action, GSUSA staff advises the
council that a Viability Review will take place. GSUSA defines the
scope of the review based on presenting issues and appoints an
appropriate review team which will include council and national
personnel. The review team is constituted based on the
circumstances warranting the review. The council shall
cooperate with the Viability Review and provide requested
information.
2. Results of the review, including the prescribed action plan,
are shared in a face-to-face meeting with the council Board
Chair, CEO and subsequently with the council Board of Directors.
The Viability Review team presents the findings with the
expectation that the council takes immediate corrective action.
In most cases Girl Scouts of the USA will develop the corrective
action plan.
3. GSUSA monitors the execution of the prescribed action plan
to ensure progress. Possible monitoring actions include:
a. Monthly review meeting (on site/phone) with a
member of the National Staff to evaluate progress.
b. Placement of a monitor in/with the council to provide
on-the-ground support to the Board and the staff and
to measure the report progress.
c. Immediate targeted, onsite support, as needed to key
functions, i.e., staff development for membership staff,
financial management and can include placement of
interim staff in key roles.
d. Provide documentation to GSUSA in a timeframe
prescribed.
4. If there is a cause for urgent action, GSUSA may request an
immediate meeting of the council Board of Directors or take
other appropriate action to address the situation and agree on
an action plan for moving forward.
PROCEDURES FOR NON-ISSUANCE
OR REVOCATION OF CHARTERS
1. The National Board of Directors takes action on the
recommendations of the CEO of Girl Scouts of the USA, if any of
the following circumstances occurs in a council:
A. Deficiency in respect to its resources, finances,
personnel, administrators, manner of supervising the
27
program, effectiveness in its attempt to reach and
serve all girls within its jurisdiction or otherwise, such
that, in the opinion of the National Board of Directors,
it appears that such council is unable adequately to
develop, manage, or maintain Girl Scouting within its
jurisdiction; or
B. Any act or omission, or any course of conduct that, in
the opinion of the National Board of Directors, is not in
the best interests of Girl Scouting; or
C. Failure to comply with any policy, credential standard,
or directive issued or established by or under the
authority of the National Board of Directors; or
D. Violation of any term, condition, or requirement of its
charter.
2. In the event that charter revocation or non-issuance is
contemplated, notice of reason will be provided to the council
along with a reasonable time period for response. A time and
location will be provided where the council can review and
discuss the issue(s) with a team representing the National Board.
3. Following the meeting, the National Board will in its sole
discretion, take action that it deems appropriate including
revocation or non-issuance and will communicate the action to
the council with follow-up measures. The decision of the
National Board shall be final.
STANDARDS FOR A GIRL SCOUT
COUNCIL JURISDICTION
The requirements of local council charters are established by the
National Council. The National Board administers the
requirements for such credentials and may establish standards,
procedures, and interpretations regarding requirements. The
National Board sets council jurisdictions and has determined that
it is in the best interests of Girl Scouting to establish minimum
criteria for council jurisdictions except as prohibited by law.
These criteria include an available girl population in the range of
100,000 or more and an aggregate household income in the
range of $11 billion or more except in cases where these criteria
cannot be met even within an entire state or states. Other
criteria which will be considered include regional identification,
diverse population, anticipated population growth or decline,
established transportation patterns, state or municipal
boundaries, geographic barriers, and media markets. The
standard will enable local councils to have sufficient resources to
support membership growth and diversity, differentiated
program opportunities, and specialized council staff.
Except as provided above, all councils who do not meet the basic
jurisdictional requirements will be expected to work in close
collaboration with their neighbors in a way that brings benefit to
all. Annual charter-related conversations will be driven by each
council’s performance against charter criteria and standards and
by work with neighboring councils to develop joint programs,
share services, and/or collaborate in a way that improves Girl
Scouting in each of the jurisdictions. The National Board retains
the right to initiate merger proceedings in any jurisdiction when
the National Board deems it appropriate in the best interests of
Girl Scouting and will, on a case-by-case basis, work with councils
that do not meet the jurisdictional requirements to develop
plans for jurisdictional changes as necessary and in accordance
with the law.
PROCEDURES FOR CHANGING A GIRL SCOUT
COUNCIL JURISDICTION
7
In all matters concerning jurisdictional lines, the National Board
of Directors has the authority to make the final decision, either
during the term of a charter or upon issuance of a new charter.
SECTION I
When two or more Girl Scout councils agree to combine
jurisdictions to create a new council:
1. Each council’s board of directors must approve the decision to
engage in the jurisdictional change, which must be carried out in
compliance with the council’s bylaws and the laws of the state in
which the council is incorporated.
2. The councils develop a plan and timeline for carrying out the
proposed changes in jurisdiction.
3. Each council’s board of directors must vote on the plan of
merger, consolidation, or other corporate reorganization and
distribution of assets, and refer it to the council’s membership
for a vote according to the laws of the state of incorporation.
4. Following the completion of the process to establish the new
council, an Application for a Charter for a New Girl Scout Council
is submitted to Girl Scouts of the USA for action by the National
Board of Directors.
5. Following approval of the National Board of Directors, Girl
Scouts of the USA processes the application, makes the
necessary changes in the official records, and notifies each
council chair of the board and CEO of the approval of
changes in jurisdiction. The councils notify their membership of
the changes in jurisdiction.
7. All actions taken must be consistent with state law.
SECTION II
When two or more Girl Scout councils agree to transfer a part of
one council jurisdiction to another council:
1. Each council’s board of directors must approve the
jurisdictional change.
2. An Application for Change in Girl Scout Council Jurisdiction is
completed by each council and sent to Girl Scouts of the USA.
3. Girl Scouts of the USA records the changes in jurisdiction in
the official records. Notification of the decision related to the
changes of jurisdiction is sent to board chairs of the councils
involved. The councils shall notify their membership of the
changes in jurisdictions.
28
Note: This process may be initiated by a single Girl Scout council,
by several Girl Scout councils together, or by an individual
community within a Girl Scout council. If an
individual community within a Girl Scout council wishes to be
removed from the council’s jurisdiction and added to that of
another council, the community initiates the request by sending
it, in writing, to its own council board chair.
SECTION III
The following steps are taken if or when agreement cannot be
reached between the boards of directors of the Girl Scout
councils to combine or transfer jurisdiction:
1. A board chair of at least one affected council must notify Girl
Scouts of the USA that their boards are unable to reach
agreement on the combination or transfer of jurisdiction.
2. A national team, including a National Operational Volunteer,
will invite all affected councils to provide information on how the
requested change will impact the delivery of Girl Scout program.
Community leaders from the affected councils also may be
invited to provide their reaction to the requested change. A
summary of the data collected will be shared with each council
board involved in the process.
3. Using the data provided from council and community sources,
the national team will develop a recommendation for
jurisdictional boundaries and forward it to the affected councils.
The national team completes an Application for Change in Girl
Scout Council Jurisdiction pursuant to the recommendations.
4. After the Application for Change in Girl Scout Council
Jurisdiction is completed, the CEO of Girl Scouts of the USA
reviews the application and recommends action to the National
Board of Directors.
5. Following action by the National Board of Directors, Girl
Scouts of the USA records the changes in jurisdiction in the
official records of Girl Scouts of the USA. The action of the
National Board of Directors shall be considered final. Notification
is sent to each affected council board chair. The councils shall
notify their membership of the change in jurisdiction.
PROCEDURE FOR CHANGING
A GIRL SCOUT COUNCIL NAME
To select or change its name, a council should follow the
procedure outlined below (Girl Scouts of the USA will provide
guidelines for a council to select or change its name):
1. The council submits a proposed name (and up to two
alternates) to Girl Scouts of the USA for review.
2. Girl Scouts of the USA notifies the council that the name(s) are
consistent with the guidelines. The council starts proper legal
proceedings to effect the change in name in the state in which
the council is incorporated.
3. When the council receives permission or approval from its
state of incorporation to use the new corporate name, the
council notifies Girl Scouts of the USA that the corporate name
has been approved by the state on a specified date and sends
the amended articles of incorporation to Girl Scouts of the USA.
29
The criteria and standards for an effective Girl Scout council are
established by the National Board of Directors to delineate the
way in which Girl Scout councils are expected to fulfill their
charter requirements. Essential to the charter criteria and
standards is the expectation that all Girl Scout councils fully
support and promote the Girl Scout mission of building girls of
courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better
place. Leadership development is how we achieve our mission
and is critical to the advancement and stewardship of the Girl
Scout brand.
The criteria cover broad areas of a council’s responsibility.
Standards are developed to support and further define each
criterion. They are the foundation on which the work of the
council should be built. Measures and benchmarks have been
developed to gauge performance and are reviewed regularly.
CRITERION I: MISSION DELIVERY
A chartered Girl Scout council maximizes delivery of the Girl
Scout mission by engaging and supporting volunteers and
others to provide a nationally consistent quality leadership
experience that achieves positive girl outcomes and reaches
increasing numbers of girls.
STANDARD 1
Girl program throughout the council demonstrates the outcomes
of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience and the Girl Scout
Promise and Law in action.
STANDARD 2
Based on a thorough understanding of the populations within its
jurisdiction and consistent with its strategic priorities, the council
attracts and retains an increasing number of girl members
representing all segments of its population and geographic
areas.
STANDARD 3
Using the National Program Portfolio, with enrichments that
meet the needs and interests of girls in the jurisdiction, the
council provides program delivery options through which girls
participate in the Girl Scout Leadership Experience.
STANDARD 4
Through a comprehensive volunteer management system the
council attracts, develops/trains, and retains diverse volunteers
who support the Girl Scout Mission and deliver program to girls.
STANDARD 5
The health, safety, and security of participants is protected in all
program delivery, including program delivery using electronic
means.
CRITERION II: GOVERNANCE
AND ADMINISTRATION
A chartered Girl Scout council advances the movement through
strategic governance and leadership that employ effective
systems and structures to deliver the Girl Scout mission.
STANDARD 1
The council utilizes an integrated strategy development and
management planning system to maximize its capacity to deliver
on the Girl Scout mission.
STANDARD 2
The council actively seeks to strengthen the stakeholder
involvement and interaction to ensure that the membership is
involved in influencing major policy decisions and helping to set
strategic direction.
STANDARD 3
The council has a board of directors and board development
committee that is elected or appointed in a manner consistent
with the bylaws, has the experience and skills necessary to
provide leadership and direction to the council, and reflects the
diversity of the jurisdiction.
STANDARD 4
The council board of directors ensures compliance with policies,
standards, and procedures as related to its stewardship
responsibilities.
STANDARD 5
The council fulfills its corporate obligations as required by local,
state, and federal law, and through the rights and obligations
defined in the Girl Scout council charter agreement.
STANDARD 6
The council’s human resources policies and practices attract,
develop, and retain employed staff reflecting all areas of its
jurisdiction and all segments of its population.
STANDARD 7
The council utilizes a movement-wide common technology
platform with respect to membership, volunteer management,
delivery systems and data analytics and reporting to better serve
Girl Scout volunteers and members and enhance the Girl Scout
brand.
CRITERIA AND STANDARDS
FOR AN EFFECTIVE GIRL SCOUT COUNCIL
30
CRITERION III: RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT
AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
A chartered Girl Scout council advances organizational impact
by growing resources, effectively promoting a unified national
brand and standing up for girls on issues that affect their well-
being.
STANDARD 1
The council builds a culture of philanthropy by accepting and
carrying out their responsibility to increase funds raised to
support the council’s work, and they do so using methods in
keeping with Girl Scout policies and standards.
STANDARD 2
The council board and management demonstrate financial
leadership to provide for the perpetuation of Girl Scouting within
its jurisdiction.
STANDARD 3
The council, utilizing national brand strategies and associated
guidelines, promotes and protects a nationally consistent Girl
Scout Brand to educate and engage diverse audiences in support
of the Girl Scout Mission.
STANDARD 4
The council advocates individually, regionally, and as part of a
national movement on issues that affect girls’ well-being.
31
CHAPTER 803—
GIRL SCOUTS OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Sec.
80301. Organization.
80302. Purposes.
80303. Governing body.
80304. Powers.
80305. Exclusive right to emblems, badges, marks, and words.
80306. Restrictions.
80307. Annual report.
§ 80301. ORGANIZATION
(a) Federal charter.—Girl Scouts of the United States of America
(in this chapter, the “corporation”) is a body corporate and
politic of the District of Columbia.
(b) Domicile.—The domicile of the corporation is the District of
Columbia.
(c) Perpetual existence.—Except as otherwise provided, the
corporation has perpetual existence.
§ 80302. PURPOSES
The purposes of the corporation are—
(1) to promote the qualities of truth, loyalty, helpfulness,
friendliness, courtesy, purity, kindness, obedience, cheerfulness,
thriftiness, and kindred virtues among girls, as a preparation for
their responsibilities in the home and for service to the
community;
(2) to direct and coordinate the Girl Scout movement in the
United States and territories and possessions of the United
States; and
(3) to fix and maintain standards for the movement that will
inspire the rising generation with the highest ideals of character,
patriotism, conduct, and attainment.
§ 80303. GOVERNING BODY
(a) National Council.—
(1) There shall be a National Council of Girl Scouts. The number,
qualifications, and term of office of members of the Council are
as provided in the constitution of the corporation, except that
members of the Council must be citizens of the United States.
(2) The Council may adopt and amend a constitution and bylaws
and elect a board of directors, officers, and agents.
(3) The constitution may prescribe the number of members of
the Council necessary for a quorum. That number may be less
than a majority of the entire Council.
(4) Meetings of the Council shall be held as provided in the
constitution to hold elections and receive reports of the officers
and board of directors. Special meetings may be called as
provided in the constitution.
(b) Board of directors.—
(1) To the extent provided in the constitution and bylaws, the
board of directors shall have the powers of the Council and
manage the activities of the corporation between meetings of
the Council. The number, qualifications, and term of office of
directors are as provided in the constitution.
(2) The constitution may prescribe the number of directors
necessary for a quorum. That number shall be at least 20 or two-
fifths of the entire board.
(c) Executive and other committees.—The bylaws may provide
for—
(1) an executive committee to carry out the powers of the board
of directors between meetings of the board; and
(2) other committees to operate under the general supervision
of the board of directors.
(d) Location of meetings and records.—The Council and the
board of directors may hold meetings and keep the seal and
records of the corporation in or outside the District of Columbia.
§ 80304. POWERS
The corporation may—
(1) adopt and amend a constitution, bylaws, and regulations,
including regulations for the election of associates and
successors;
CONGRESSIONAL CHARTER
OF GIRL SCOUTS OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Girl Scouts was first incorporated in 1915 under the corporate laws of the District of Columbia. A Congressional Charter was conferred
upon Girl Scouts of the United States of America in 1950 by a special act of Congress. In 1998, Congress revised the language of all
congressional charters, including the charter conferred upon Girl Scouts of the United States of America in 1950. The purpose was to
ensure uniformity rather than make substantial changes in the content. Legislation was introduced and legislation HR. 1085/S.2264 was
approved by Congress and signed into Public Law 105-225 on August 12, 1998.
32
(2) adopt and alter a seal;
(3) have offices and conduct its activities in the District of
Columbia and in the States, territories, and possessions of the
United States;
(4) acquire, own, lease, encumber, and transfer property, and
use any income from the property, as necessary to carry out the
purposes of the corporation;
(5) sue and be sued within the jurisdiction of the United States;
and
(6) do any other act necessary to carry out this chapter and the
purposes of the corporation.
§ 80305. EXCLUSIVE RIGHT TO EMBLEMS, BADGES,
MARKS, AND WORDS
The corporation has the exclusive right to use all emblems and
badges, descriptive or designating marks, and words or phrases
the corporation adopts, including the badge of the Girl Scouts,
Incorporated, referred to in the Act of August 12, 1937 (ch. 590,
50 Stat. 623), and to authorize their use, during the life of the
corporation, in connection with the manufacture, advertisement,
and sale of equipment and merchandise. This section does not
affect any vested rights.
§ 80306. RESTRICTIONS
(a) Profit.—The corporation may not operate for profit.
(b) Political activities.—The corporation shall be nonpolitical and
nonsectarian.
§ 80307. ANNUAL REPORT
Not later than April 1 of each year, the corporation shall submit a
report to Congress on the activities of the corporation during the
prior fiscal year. The report shall be printed each year, with
accompanying illustrations, as a separate House document of the
session of the Congress to which the report is submitted.**
**Note: Chapter 803, Girl Scouts of the United States of America, Section 80307. This
requirement was terminated effective May 15, 2000. See Pub.L. 104-66, § 3003, set out as a
note under 31, U.S.C.A. 1113, and H.R. Doc. No. 103-7, at 2
6