[FL] How do I define votes in an operating agreement?
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I see the issue. Because Section 3(b) specifically governs amendments, it likely overrides the general voting rule in Section 4 for amendments. The word "equal" is ambiguous: it could mean one vote per member (regardless of ownership) or something else. That ambiguity creates risk of litigation.
If read literally, Section 3(b) = one vote per member for amendments (so Members 1 and 2 could out-vote the 65% owner if they both agree).
But Section 4 pushes a contrary interpretation (proportional voting). The conflict makes the clause unclear and litigable.
To remove the ambiguity, you should either:
- Amend Section 3(b) to explicitly adopt proportional voting (tie to Section 4), e.g.:
“For voting under Section 3(B), votes shall be counted in proportion to each Member’s ownership as set forth in Section 4.”
— or— - Keep 3(b) as one-member/one-vote, but then modify Section 4 to carve out amendments, making the document internally consistent.
If you want amendments to be based on ownership %, eliminate the phrase “equal vote” and replace it with language referencing Section 4.
The agreement requires that after a successful vote, approving members must sign the amendment and attach it. Email can be used to propose and record consent, but you should ensure:
- Your agreement contains an electronic signatures/consent clause (Florida Statutes § 668.004), and
- Final, executed amendments are signed (wet or electronic signature) and attached as required.
Given the ambiguity and potential for dispute, I recommend using a local Florida transactional business attorney to prepare a clear amendment and manage the voting/signatures to reduce litigation risk.
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I have a question. My operating agreement says that amendments must be by "equal vote." There are three holders: two persons and a company. So the company gets one vote, correct?
I understand. Are you asking whether the company is entitled to one vote for amendments?
Yes.
Does the operating agreement explicitly say the company is allocated one vote, or is voting based on ownership percentage?
It doesn't say the company is allocated one vote. It just says amendments require an "equal vote" and there are three of us — two persons and one company representing one member.
Anything else before I connect you with a lawyer?
Yes — can we send amendments by email and vote by email with each person replying yes or no?
Good afternoon — my name is Chris. I'm an attorney. Although we do not have an attorney-client relationship, I am here to assist you.
Thanks. I have an Operating Agreement I made myself. There are three of us, and the agreement has a contradiction:
- Section 3, Part B explicitly states amendments require an equal vote (all members have the same voting power, regardless of ownership).
- Sections 3 A, C, D specify other decisions are by majority vote.
- Section 4 says votes are proportional to ownership.
So Section 3(b) (equal vote) conflicts with Section 4 (proportional vote). Which rule controls for amendments?
I will send the agreement now.
3. VOTING REQUIREMENTS.
a.) Business Decisions. Business decisions related to the Company’s activities, finances, and management shall be made by majority decision by the Members.
b.) Amending this Agreement. Any amendments to this Agreement shall be made by: Equal vote
c.) Adding New Members. Adding new Members to this Company shall be made by majority decision by the Members.
d.) Withdrawing Members. To allow Members to withdraw shall be made by majority decision by the Members.
4. VOTING RIGHTS. When votes are cast by Members as required under Section 3, or for any decision regarding the Company, each Member’s vote shall be counted in proportion to their ownership of the Company.
2. MEMBERS. The Company is formed with the following Members:
1st Member — Ownership: 15%
2nd Member — Ownership: 20%
3rd Member — Ownership: 65%
25. MISCELLANEOUS.
a.) Amendments. Any amendment to this Agreement must be agreed to in accordance with the Voting Requirements in Section 3(b). After a successful vote, the approving Members must sign the amendment and attach it to this Agreement.
I see the issue. Because Section 3(b) specifically governs amendments, it likely overrides the general voting rule in Section 4 for amendments. The word "equal" is ambiguous: it could mean one vote per member (regardless of ownership) or something else. That ambiguity creates risk of litigation.
If read literally, Section 3(b) = one vote per member for amendments (so Members 1 and 2 could out-vote the 65% owner if they both agree).
But Section 4 pushes a contrary interpretation (proportional voting). The conflict makes the clause unclear and litigable.
To remove the ambiguity, you should either:
- Amend Section 3(b) to explicitly adopt proportional voting (tie to Section 4), e.g.:
“For voting under Section 3(B), votes shall be counted in proportion to each Member’s ownership as set forth in Section 4.”
— or— - Keep 3(b) as one-member/one-vote, but then modify Section 4 to carve out amendments, making the document internally consistent.
If you want amendments to be based on ownership %, eliminate the phrase “equal vote” and replace it with language referencing Section 4.
The agreement requires that after a successful vote, approving members must sign the amendment and attach it. Email can be used to propose and record consent, but you should ensure:
- Your agreement contains an electronic signatures/consent clause (Florida Statutes § 668.004), and
- Final, executed amendments are signed (wet or electronic signature) and attached as required.
Given the ambiguity and potential for dispute, I recommend using a local Florida transactional business attorney to prepare a clear amendment and manage the voting/signatures to reduce litigation risk.
I would eliminate "equal vote" and replace it with "By the method listed under Section 4." Can you help us as our lawyer to draft and guide the amendment and voting process?
I can explain options and draft proposed amendment language, but because you're in Florida, it's best to retain a local Florida transactional/business attorney who can form the attorney-client relationship and represent you if litigation arises.
Okay, thank you very much for your help.
You're welcome.
