143. A Chapter Called Fred Greco

Ben, Jared, and Scott welcome PCA Stated Clerk Fred Greco back to the show as they kick off a new season working through the Rules of Assembly Operation (RAO) -- the "yellow pages" section of the BCO appendices. Fred explains what the RAO actually is: the rulebook for how General Assembly conducts its business, and a window into how the PCA's permanent committees, agencies, and Standing Judicial Commission operate between assemblies. The conversation covers the RAO's relationship to the Constitution (it's not part of it, and RAO amendments take effect immediately rather than going through the constitutional amendment process), how it sits below the BCO and Westminster Standards but above Robert's Rules of Order, the math behind amending or suspending the rules (two-thirds vote that's also a majority of enrolled commissioners), why the RAO discourages bringing new business straight to the GA floor, and which chapters (4, 14-17) are worth knowing even if you never attend Assembly. A good primer before diving into the RAO chapter by chapter in episodes to come. Questions or comments? Reach out at politymattersfeedback@gmail.com. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Official Website: politymatters.org Support the Show: Buy Me a Coffee Twitter/X: @PolityMatters Facebook: Polity Matters Page Scott's Twitter Jared's Twitter Ben's Twitter