Parliamentary Procedure: a Guide to Senate Etiquette/Conventions (based on Roberts’ Rules of Order – 11th Ed.) iLead 19 Sept, 2017

Origins 1st Ed. published 1876 by Henry Martyn Robert Based on British parliamentary procedure Initial English settlers continued the practice Governs US congressional etiquette

Relevance/ Application Consistency and Predictability Unbiased, clear, established rules Majority rule dictates decision-making Order Engenders respect for others’ right to air views Suppression of unsanctioned/disruptive behavior Efficiency Promotes speedy resolution of Senate business Seeks to ensure that all sides of issues are considered

Key Personalities Chair (President of the Senate) Convenes, calls meeting to order Opens floor for discussion Tie-breaker vote President Pro-Tempore Serves as Senate Chair on occasion Parliamentarian Maintains order Knowledgeable about parliamentary procedure May interrupt to advise on procedure/conduct

Dress Code - Men Dress Code Key words: Business Casual Dress shirt with and slacks/khakis (ties a plus!) OR Jacket/sweater and dress shirt with slacks/khakis Oxfords, or other dress shoes NO T-shirts or jeans NO shorts NO cargo pants NO sneakers or flip flops

Dress Code - Women Dress Code Slacks at or below the ankle Skirts at least mid-thigh length Dressy capris acceptable NO T-shirts NO jeans or leggings NO spandex NO sneakers or flip flops

Sequencing of a Parliamentary Session Call to Order made when a quorum (simple majority) is present Motion raised to accept/alter minutes Reports from Officers and Special Committees Presentations from Special Guests (if any) Advisors’ Report Discussion of Agenda items Announcements/ Any Other Business Adjournment

Conducting Business Speak only when recognized by Chair Address Chair as “Mr. President/Mr. Chairperson” Speak in the third person concerning a fellow senator

When Can I Interrupt the Debate? Breach of Rules or Conduct “Point of Order” General Complaint (conditions, noise, etc.) “Point of Privilege” Overturning the Chair’s ruling Say, “I appeal from the Chair’s decision” Request for further information during debate Request that a vote be taken by standing “I call for a division” Reconsidering a hasty decision “I move to reconsider the vote on…”

Time To Vote Chair calls for a vote “All those in favor…” Opposing votes solicited

Voting Procedure Simple majority vote usually sufficient Bills and resolutions require a 2/3 majority Motion to revisit a bill or issue – 2/3 majority Chair only allowed to vote as a tie breaker