Boys State General Rules

Citizens of American Legion New Mexico Boys’ State (NMBS) are here primarily to learn how government is conducted through actual practice. You will, as far as possible, govern yourself accordingly. All Counselors are here to advise you on any problems or procedure.

1. Absence from the grounds of the school will be possible only by written permission from the Director. Such permission will be granted only in case of emergency.
2. NM Boys’ State will be policed by NM Boys’ State system of the city, county and state under the direction of the counseling staff; ordinances, resolutions and laws passed by the city, county and state will be enforced.
3. All buildings and equipment are either the property of NM Boys’ State or Eastern New Mexico University, Portales.
4. VANDALISM: Anyone caught in the act of willful destruction will be reported to the Director for further action.
5. No recreational activities will be permitted except during official recreational periods. At all other times Citizens will be attending to their duties.
6. Sick call will be observed. Every illness, particularly colds, fevers and stomach disorders must be reported immediately. Every accident, no matter how slight, particularly cuts, sprains, scratches and blisters must be reported to your Counselor at once. Do not wait for sick call.
7. Formations: In order to move from place to place quickly and efficiently and in an orderly and safe manner, cities will meet at designated places and will walk with their cities to their destinations.
8. Badges and T-shirts: Must be worn at all times except at bedtime and recreational periods. Pin your badge on the upper left-hand corner of the NM Boys’ State emblem on your t-shirt.
9. Smoking: Citizens may smoke only if a parent has signed the attached release form. Smoking will be in designated areas only, not in buildings, rooms or dormitories.
10. Exercise: All Citizens will participate in brief, relaxed exercise sessions each morning.
11. Punctuality: You must be on time for all formations, such as lowering of the colors and assemblies and any activities as designated by NM Boys’ State staff.
12. You are encouraged to take part in voluntary morning invocations; and you will be expected to display proper respect and decorum in the presence of the American flag.
13. Campaign materials, pre-printed or otherwise, will not be allowed.
14. NM Boys’ State materials, including t-shirts, will not be defaced in any manner.

CODE OF CONDUCT

1. I will treat Boys’ State staff, citizens, guests, campus personnel, and others with respect.
2. I will not discriminate against, harass, or otherwise target any Boys’ State staff, citizens, guests, or others based on their religion, race, color, creed, national origin, or any characteristic, physical or otherwise.
3. I will not engage in profanity, vulgarity, or rowdiness; I will not use religious, racial, ethnic, or any other disparaging epithets.
4. I will be available for the entire Boys’ State session and will not request permission for late arrival or early departure unless an emergency arises.
5. I will not leave campus without permission in writing from the Director.
6. I will protect and conserve all Boys’ State or campus property. I will not trespass upon grounds, buildings, etc., which are designated as off limits.
7. I will write to my family while at Boys’ State.
8. I will not bring firearms, knives, fireworks, water pistols, balloons, or any other device which my cause injury or disturbance.
9. I will not bring or use any alcoholic beverages or any drugs that have not been prescribed and listed on your medical statement while at Boys’ State.
10. I will listen to all speakers with attention and respect and expect all others to do the same while speaking.
11. I will not campaign or prepare any campaign materials prior to my arrival on campus.
12. I will abide by lights out times and remain quiet until morning reveille.
13. I will keep myself clean and well-groomed. I will keep all living areas and meeting spaces clean, organized and up to the inspection standards given by NM Boys’ State staff.
14. I will accept responsibility of payment for destruction of Eastern New Mexico University, American Legion New Mexico Boys’ State or other property, which I may have caused and/or may be stated orally during the session.