Purpose
The goal of the Decision Rules for Conflict Resolution is to work toward consensus and resolution of significant problems.

These rules are intended to ensure that conflict is handled in a constructive manner, allowing for differing opinions to be heard. In most instances, these issues can be settled with some discussion, followed by a vote and a majority ruling.

However, when these are important issues that may threaten to disrupt progress, preestablished Decision Rules will be used at the discretion of the MCC co-chairs and Advisory Committee co-chairs.

Decision Rules
These Decision Rules are adapted from “Guidelines for Discussion,” originally developed by the MCC Prioritization Committee and approved by the full MCC at its Feb. 4, 1998 meeting.

1. If discussion of an issue results in significant disagreement or conflict which is not readily resolved, a “straw” vote will determine how many agree on a particular issue.
   
   
2. If the “straw” vote shows > 75% agree, then the issue will carry.
   
   
3. If it shows that <75% agree, the following process to facilitate discussion and potential resolution will be implemented for a time period specified by the group:
   
   
   1. After the “straw” vote, identify and focus discussion on the relative points of agreement (i.e., “What does the group agree upon?”)
      
      
   2. Then clarify, “What are the specific points of disagreement? What options are there for a compromise?”
      
      
   3. If after this discussion there is still <75% agreement, the pros and cons of continuing the discussion will be considered. A vote will be taken either to drop the issue or continue the discussion for a set amount of time agreed upon by the group. If the discussion is continued and completed, the issue will be put to a final vote. If <75% favor the proposal, the issue will be dropped.
      
      
   4. Once an issue has been dropped, it can be referred for subsequent discussion at a future meeting if there is a majority vote (>50%) to do so.
      
      

last updated: 04/07/05

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