Legal Definitions - special rule

A special rule is a regulation, instruction, or procedure that applies to a very specific situation, case, or matter, often overriding or supplementing a more general rule that would otherwise apply. It is created to address unique circumstances that fall outside the scope of standard procedures or broad guidelines.

• Example 1 (Specific Regulatory Exception):

  A city has a general zoning ordinance that limits the height of all new commercial buildings in a particular district to 50 feet. However, a developer proposes building a new medical research facility that requires specialized equipment and unique structural designs, necessitating a height of 70 feet. After reviewing the project's public health benefits and the specific technical requirements, the city council approves a specific exception, allowing this particular facility to exceed the standard height limit.

  Explanation: This exception is a special rule because it deviates from the general 50-foot height restriction, applying only to this one unique development due to its specialized purpose and the public good it serves, rather than changing the general rule for all buildings in the district.

• Example 2 (Organizational Procedure Modification):

  The bylaws of a non-profit organization typically require a two-thirds majority vote of all members present to pass any new policy. However, during an urgent board meeting called to address an immediate crisis that threatens the organization's funding, the board unanimously agrees to adopt a temporary special rule for that specific meeting, allowing a simple majority vote to approve emergency financial measures, recognizing the need for swift action.

  Explanation: The decision to allow a simple majority vote for emergency financial measures is a special rule. It temporarily supersedes the organization's standard two-thirds majority requirement for the unique and urgent circumstances of that particular meeting, without changing the general voting rule for other matters.

• Example 3 (Legislative Process Adjustment):

  In a state legislature, the standard procedure for bringing a bill to a vote requires it to pass through three different committees before reaching the full chamber. However, a critical disaster relief bill is introduced following a major natural catastrophe. Recognizing the immediate need for aid, the legislative body passes a resolution to apply a special rule for this specific bill, allowing it to bypass two of the committees and proceed directly to a floor vote after review by only one committee.

  Explanation: The resolution allowing the disaster relief bill to bypass committees is a special rule. It modifies the general legislative process specifically for the unique and urgent nature of that particular bill, enabling a faster path to approval than what would normally apply to other legislation.