It is the responsibility of the Committee on Resolutions to consider every resolution that is timely submitted to the Committee with the intention of being brought to the floor of the Annual Conference. The resolutions committee does not vote on the substantive content of the resolution or consider whether we agree with the point of view of the resolution that has been submitted. The decision of whether a particular resolution is wise or is good policy is up to the Annual Conference. The role of the Committee on Resolutions is a narrower evaluation.
The first task of the Committee on Resolutions is to determine if a proposed resolution is consistent with the Book of Discipline, especially the Constitution and Articles of Religion. The second task that the Committee on Resolutions must undertake is to determine whether a resolution can pass the test of concurrence. Some of the questions the Committee considers are: Is there a discernible and actionable step defined in the “Therefore, be it resolved?” Is that action step within the authority of the Annual Conference? Does it meet the requirements of the Standing Rules? If a resolution does not pass the tests of concurrence or constitutionality, there will be a recommendation to the Bishop and Annual Conference that it be ruled out of order.
The Resolutions Committee brings seven resolution forward to the Annual Conference this year.
The following resolutions were found by the Resolutions Committee to be in order and will be presented to the body for vote:
Housing Allowance Resolution for Retired, Disabled or Former Clergypersons
Resolution on Ending the Use of the Death Penalty in Tennessee and Kentucky
Resolution on Faithful Christian Witness in the Israel-Palestine Conflict
Resolution for Distribution of Proceeds from the Sale of Closed Church Property
Recommended Tennessee-Western Kentucky Parental Leave Policy