Does a vacancy in union office require a new election?
A3. A vacancy in office would require a new election only if the union’s constitution and bylaws mandates that an election be held. Otherwise, the vacancy may be filled by appointment, automatic succession, or by a special election. Such a special election does not need to conform to all the provisions of Title IV of the LMRDA. However, the LMRDA section 504 prohibitions on certain persons holding office would still apply. Also, civil enforcement of the bill of rights provisions contained in Title I of the LMRDA (such as members’ equal rights to nominate candidates and vote in union elections) would still apply.
