Bylaws & Governing Rules

Read the official codes and procedures that govern the Hidalgo County Democratic Party meetings and organizations.

📜 Party Bylaws

The Hidalgo County Democratic Party operates in adherence with both the Rules of the Texas Democratic Party and our own local bylaws. These documents establish the structure of the County Executive Committee, outline the duties of its officers and Precinct Chairs, and dictate procedures for endorsements, resolutions, and general operations.

Download Official Bylaws

View the current approved version of the Hidalgo County Democratic Party Bylaws.

Download PDF

⚖️ Parliamentary Procedure

To ensure fair, efficient, and orderly meetings, the Hidalgo County Democratic Party County Executive Committee strictly follows Robert's Rules of Order in all official capacities, except where the Texas Democratic Party Rules or local Bylaws explicitly supersede them.

Robert's Rules of Order

Whether you are a new Precinct Chair or a seasoned member of the CEC, understanding parliamentary procedure is crucial for participating in our democratic process, making motions, and having your voice heard.

Read Robert's Rules Online

Texas Democratic Party Rules

The core rules governing the broader state party operations, which act as the parent guidelines to our local Hidalgo County bylaws.

View TDP Rules

🤝 Code of Conduct

  1. The Hidalgo County Democratic Party is committed to providing an environment free from discrimination and harassment. We ask all meeting participants to embrace our value of equity and equality, and conduct themselves in this meeting consistent with those values.
  2. We have designated ____________ as our point of contact for anyone who thinks they have experienced discriminatory, harassing or otherwise unacceptable behavior, and we urge you to contact them if you have any concern.
  3. Please note that the Code of Conduct applies to all meetings that HCDP hosts, including meetings or calls held via Zoom or other software, including both discussion and chat, text, fb, insta, email . . . etc.

⚖️ Grievance & Disciplinary Procedures

Transparency and accountability are the bedrock of our party. The following is the formal procedure to address ethical violations, disputes, and grievances within the Hidalgo County Democratic Party, ensuring due process is afforded to all members in accordance with Texas Democratic Party Rules.

What Constitutes a Violation?

Actionable grievances must relate to specific violations of established rules, including but not limited to:

  • Code of Conduct Violations: Harassment, discrimination, or abusive behavior toward other members or the public.
  • Statutory Violations: Publicly supporting or endorsing a candidate of an opposition party while holding an official Democratic Party position.
  • Financial Impropriety: Misuse or mishandling of party funds or resources.
  • Decorum Violations: Severe, repeated, and intentional disruptions to parliamentary procedure that halt official County Executive Committee business.

How to File a Grievance

To initiate an official investigation, a formal grievance must be submitted in writing to the County Chair or the Chair of the Rules Committee.

The complaint must include specific dates, details of the alleged violation, and any supporting evidence or documentation.

Submit Secure Report via Inbox

The Investigative Process (Due Process)

Those who file a formal grievance should expect the following lifecycle for complaint resolution:

Step 1. Initial Review

The Rules/Ethics Committee reviews the written grievance within an established timeframe (typically 14 days) to determine if the complaint meets the criteria for an actionable rule violation.

Step 2. Formal Notification of the Accused

If deemed actionable, the accused individual is securely provided a formal copy of the complaint and granted equal time and opportunity to submit a written response detailing their defense.

Step 3. Fact-Finding & Hearing

The committee conducts an impartial hearing. Both the member who filed the grievance and the accused are permitted to present their case, submit evidence, and call relevant witnesses subject to typical parliamentary debate rules.

Step 4. Committee Resolution

The committee determines a factual outcome. If disciplinary action is warranted (ranging from a formal warning or censure to permanent removal), the committee's recommendation is presented to the broader County Executive Committee (CEC) for a final binding vote, as mandated by TDP Rules.