(a) A society is operating on the lodge system if it has a supreme governing body and subordinate lodges into which members are elected, initiated or admitted in accordance with its laws, rules and ritual. Subordinate lodges shall be required by the laws of the society to hold regular meetings at least once every sixty (60) days in furtherance of the purposes of the society.

Terms Used In Tennessee Code 56-25-102

  • Laws: means the society's articles of incorporation, charter, constitution and bylaws, however designated. See Tennessee Code 56-25-104
  • Lodge: means subordinate member units of the society, known as camps, courts, councils, branches or by any other designation. See Tennessee Code 56-25-104
  • Rules: means all rules, regulations or resolutions adopted by the supreme governing body or board of directors that are intended to have general application to the members of the society. See Tennessee Code 56-25-104
  • Society: means fraternal benefit society, unless otherwise indicated. See Tennessee Code 56-25-104
(b) A society may, at its option, organize and operate lodges for children under the minimum age for adult membership. Membership and initiation in local lodges shall not be required of the children, nor shall they have a voice or vote in the management of the society.
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