A government can only be as effective as the rules by which it abides. UCSD’s college governments have organizational documents of varying length and quality, and sometimes it shows. As the six college councils adapt their existing constitutions and bylaws to fit the new structure of the A.S. Council, they have an opportunity to kill two birds with one stone and clean up other procedural issues.

For instance, following the removal of former John Muir College Junior Senator Aida Kuzucan from office, the Muir College Council allowed a special election to reverse the decision. But because Muir’s constitution and bylaws are silent about impeachment appeals — and a number of other things — the council set the election rules based on the requirements for passing a student-initiated constitutional amendment.

The downside to this decision is that amendment requirements are intentionally set high (to prevent unneeded constitutional changes). As a consequence, reinstating a representative under these rules requires far more votes than electing him or her in the first place — and indeed, Kuzucan earned more votes in her appeal than she did in her original election.

Overhauling a constitution to prepare for contingencies can be a painstakingly dull process. But as the confusion at the MCC illustrates, having a clearly defined procedure to deal with such contingencies can prevent a lot of headaches when they inevitably do arise.

The upcoming A.S. elections are the perfect time for the six college councils to revisit their foundational documents, fill in gaps and iron out any wrinkles.