MASSACHUSETTS NURSE NEWSLETTER :: November/December 2007

Non-MNA RNs can now join the MNA—at a reduced rate—via ‘associate membership'

Rationale of original proposal
The goal of this bylaw proposal was to make it appealing and affordable for non-MNA RNs (i.e., those who do not get the rights, protections and benefits associated with being in an organized MNA-affiliated bargaining unit) to become involved with the MNA, thereby adding a new level of innovation and excitement to the organization, as well as expanding the MNA’s access to a more diverse population of nurses. Most importantly, these new associate members will pay dues at a reduced rate that is structured and specific.

The voting result: Yes.

The “yes” vote at convention on this bylaw proposal has resulted in the creation of a new category of membership, a category that defined as “associate membership.”

Q&A

Q. Who is eligible to be an associate member?
A. Any registered nurse who is not covered by an MNA collective bargaining agreement.

Q. Will associate members have a separate dues structure?
A. Yes.

Q. What is the dues rate for an associate member?
A. Subject to verification members who qualify for Associate Membership may elect to pay $20 per month or $240 per year as their annual dues.

Q. Do I have options in how/when I pay my dues as an associate member?
A. Monthly dues are done by electronic funds transfer either by setting up with a voided check or a credit card number. Monthly dues are pulled on the 15th of each month. The annual dues would be payable once a year covering a twelve month period. There is Non-MNA RNs can now join the MNA—at a reduced rate—via ‘associate membership’ a charge of $25 for insufficient funds.

Q. What benefits am I entitled to as an associate member?
A. You will: receive the MNA membership card; receive the Massachusetts Nurse Advocate; be able to attend annual and special MNA meetings, but without voting privileges; be able to be a member of Massachusetts Nurses PAC (the political arm of MNA); be able to be appointed to any congress, committee, task force or the Center for Ethics and Human Rights; have access to all of the discount offers available to full members; be able to take advantage of the MNA’s free CE programs. In essence, associate members would have a voice but would not be able to vote as a member.

Q. What benefits/rights are NOT available to me as an associate member?
A. You cannot vote on issues; serve as an office or on the Board of Directors of the MNA; or run for an MNA office.

Q. When will this new category of membership go in to effect?
A. July 1, 2008.

Q. If I join the MNA, but decide later to leave, could I get a refund of the dues I paid?
A. You would be entitled to a refund for the remainder of your annual payment, providing you give notice 30 days in advance. In other words, you paid the annual fee and six months later you decide to leave, the refund would be for the unused portion of your dues, six months.

Q. Can I still join as a full member if I’d rather?
A. Yes.

Q. Who do I contact should I have questions or need more information?
A. The MNA’s division of membership at 800.882.2056, ext. 741.