Military Service an Allowable Cause For Non-Payment of Dues

On March 27, the R.W. Grand Master, Marvin A. Cunningham, Sr., announced a change in Article 32.13 of the Digest of Decisions removing the requirement for the notification of a Member's potential for suspension for non-payment of dues to be sent by certified mail. It remains necessary prior to any action for a Member to be contacted personally by an Officer, Past Master, or other Member of the Lodge designated by the Master, to determine whether there is good cause for the failure to pay dues, if any exists. If good cause does not exist, final notice must be sent (certified not required) at least one month prior to the Lodge taking action on suspension.

At the same time, the Grand Master added Article 32.13A allowing, at the discretion of the Lodge, for remitting dues for Members who have been called to active duty during military conflicts. Article 32.13A:

Good cause for failure to pay dues includes being called to active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States during military engagements or other emergencies. Whereas the Member may not receive due and timely notice, remission of dues is appropriate.