diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
index 4c0f26f..30dce4e 100644
--- a/README.md
+++ b/README.md
@@ -21,11 +21,11 @@ If you would like to contribute, please follow [OpenStack's contribution guideli
 
 #### Rules only land with consensus
 Patches that activate, deactivate, or modify rules, should only be merged if a consensus of
-reviewers is reached. In this case, consensus means at least five +1 votes, with no -1 votes. Cores 
-may not override and/or ignore -1 votes.
+reviewers is reached. In this case, consensus means at least five positive votes (+1 or +2),
+with no -1 votes. Cores may not override and/or ignore -1 votes.
 
 #### Library upgrades require two cores
-Patches that upgrade eslint only require two core approvers to land. These patches should add new
+Patches that upgrade eslint only require two core approvers to land. These patches must add new
 upstream rules in a deactivated state, and delete any deprecated rules.
 
 #### Policy upgrades require all cores