What criteria need to be met for by-laws to be valid internal legislation?

For by-laws to be considered valid internal legislation, all specified criteria need to be met. Firstly, by-laws must be adopted according to established procedures, ensuring that they follow the appropriate legislative process within the organization. This includes proper notification, deliberation, and voting by the governing body, which reflects the organization’s commitment to governance and adherence to democratic principles.

Additionally, the by-laws must not contravene provincial or federal acts. This means they must be in compliance with higher-level legal frameworks, which ensures that the organization operates within the legal boundaries set by the government. Non-compliance could render the by-laws void or subject to legal challenges, jeopardizing the organization’s functioning and integrity.

Finally, by-laws must not address subjects outside the corporation’s purpose, as defined in the organization's articles of incorporation or charter. This criterion ensures that the by-laws align with the organization’s mission and objectives, preventing overreach into unrelated areas that could dilute the focus and effectiveness of the organization.

Meeting all these criteria ensures that by-laws are robust, legally compliant, and aligned with the organization's goals, thereby contributing to effective governance and operational integrity.