6.1 Taxonomic proposals may be initiated by an individual member of the ICTV, by a Study Group or by a Subcommittee member. Proposals will be sent to the Chair of the appropriate Subcommittee for consideration by that Subcommittee and/or its Study Groups. Proposals will also be sent for consideration to all Study Groups and Subcommittees whose interests might be affected by the taxonomic or nomenclatural changes proposed. Taxonomic proposals approved by any Subcommittee, usually in consultation with a Study Group, shall be submitted to the Executive Committee by the Subcommittee Chair for consideration. Proposals approved by the Executive Committee shall be presented for ratification to the full ICTV membership either at the subsequent Plenary Meeting or by circulation of proposals by mail followed by a postal vote.

Separate proposals shall be required (1) to establish a new taxon, (2) to name a taxon and (3) to designate the type species of a genus and (4) establish a list of members of a taxon.