===== Family Membership Policy =====

==== 1. Overview ====
The **Family Membership** is a **discounted membership tier** designed to allow a **regular member** (paying the standard monthly or annual rate) to **sponsor a family member** residing in their household. This includes a **child, parent, spouse, or life partner**, granting them membership privileges such as:  
  * Their own **access fob**  
  * A **storage tote**  
  * **Voting rights** as a member  

A **friend or associate** living outside of the sponsor’s household may also be sponsored under this membership; however, this should be a **needs-based exception** and should not exceed **12 months** in duration.  

==== 2. Sponsorship Limitations ====
  * A **full member** may **only sponsor one family member at a time**.  
  * If the **sponsoring member loses their membership** (due to non-payment, resignation, or revocation), the sponsored **family membership is immediately void**.  
  * A former sponsored member is **always welcome to apply for full membership** independently.  

==== 3. Governance & Restrictions ====
  * **Family members** are **not eligible** to hold **elected positions** (such as directors or officers) or any **special roles** that grant them administrative privileges beyond those of a standard member.  
  * The **Board of Directors** determines the **family membership rate** and reserves the right to **adjust the cost at any time**.  
  * **Rate adjustments apply to all family memberships**—there is **no grandfathered pricing guarantee**.  

==== 4. Sponsor Responsibilities ====
  * The **sponsoring member is NOT responsible** for the actions or conduct of the **sponsored family member**.  
  * The sponsored family member is expected to adhere to all makerspace rules and policies independently.  

This policy ensures that the Family Membership remains a **fair and accessible benefit** while maintaining the integrity of our makerspace community.