grandparenting clause

Also known as a “grandfather clause,” an exemption to a new agreement, rule, or requirement so that those who were already engaged in the relevant activity before a certain time need not fulfill the new requirements. For example, social workers who were members of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and who met certain practice and supervision requirements before 1973 could become members of the Academy of Certified Social Workers (ACSW) without having to pass the qualifying examination that was required of later applicants. See also recertification.