2025 Council on Legislation: Key Updates for District 5240
By IPDG Marta Golding Brown, District 5240 Representative to the Council on Legislation
In April 2025, I had the privilege of representing District 5240 at Rotary International's triennial Council on Legislation (COL) in Chicago. This gathering of representatives from across the globe considered and voted on proposed changes to Rotary's policies and governance. Below are some of the most important decisions that will impact our district and clubs.
2025 Council on Legislation: Key Updates for District 5240
By IPDG Marta Golding Brown, District 5240 Representative to the Council on Legislation
In April 2025, I had the privilege of representing District 5240 at Rotary International's triennial Council on Legislation (COL) in Chicago. This gathering of representatives from across the globe considered and voted on proposed changes to Rotary's policies and governance. Below are some of the most important decisions that will impact our district and clubs.
Rotary International Dues Increase
To ensure Rotary's financial sustainability, the Council approved a phased increase in per capita dues:
• 2026–27: $85.50
• 2027–28: $89.25
• 2028–29: $93.00
This adjustment supports Rotary’s ongoing programs, technology needs, and operational costs.
Reduced Membership Requirement for New Clubs
The minimum number of members required to charter a new Rotary club has been lowered from 20 to 15. This change is designed to make it easier to form new clubs, particularly in smaller communities or emerging areas.
Optional District Conferences
Districts are no longer required to hold annual district conferences. This allows for greater flexibility in how districts engage with members and celebrate achievements.
Flexibility in Governance Models
Rotary International’s Board of Directors is now authorized to pilot new governance structures. These experimental models may help Rotary better serve clubs and members in di-verse regions and changing environments.
Cultural Considerations in Zone Boundaries
Future adjustments to Rotary zone boundaries will now take into account not only member-ship numbers, but also cultural and linguistic commonalities to strengthen regional collab-oration.
Enhanced Financial Transparency
The Council adopted new requirements for Rotary’s financial planning, including updates on cost-saving measures and external reviews of administrative operations to ensure ac-countability and efficient use of resources.
You can find the official 2025 Council on Legislation decisions, including vote totals and summaries, on Rotary International’s website:
2025 Council on Legislation Decisions. This page provides detailed information on each proposal considered during the Council, including outcomes and voting results. For additional context and daily recaps from the Council sessions, you may also visit: https://my.rotary.org/en/exchange-ideas/events/council-legislation