1 Robert’s Rules of Order: A Basic Presentation Alas Con Futuro

2 Contents Meeting Outline 3 Basic Definitions 4 Protocol to Make Motion 6 Amendments 7 Voting Methods 8 Debate Example 9 References 11

3 General Outline of a Meeting Call to Order Approval of Minutes from Previous Meeting Officers’ Reports Old Business (anything unfinished from previous meeting) New Business Adjournment

4 Some Basic Definitions QUORUM – Consists of three officers and four members, and it shall be necessary to conduct business/ make a decision or vote. MOTION - Formal proposal by a delegate, in a meeting, that the group take certain action

5 Basic Protocol to Make a Motion Delegate raises their hand to be recognized by presiding officer Delegate then states “I move that we…”  The delegate may then briefly describe the motion The motion must be seconded by another delegate Chair then calls for discussion on the motion

6 Example of Debate with Amendments Motion to discuss potential Platform Plank  Discussion ensued regarding the unconstitutional NDAA  Amendment made to support for Dr. Paul’s proposed bill to overturn unconstitutional text in Sec  Discussion ensued  Amendment put to a vote, then returned to initial topic of the NDAA  Further discussion on the NDAA  Question of overturning the NDAA, as amended

7) Methods of Voting By Voice  Those in favor say “aye”, those against say “nay” By Roll Call  Poll all voting delegates By General Consent  When a motion is not likely to be opposed, the Chair says, “If there is no objection…” & if no objection, then the Chair says, “Hearing no objection, the motion passes that…” By Division  Verification of voice vote: Delegates raise their hand or stand By Ballot  Delegates write vote on slip of paper (normally done during voting on officers)

8 Basic Protocol to Make a Motion: Discussion After Chair calls for discussion on the motion:  Delegate who introduced the motion has the right to speak first  Other delegates wishing to express their opinion on the motion on the table will raise their hands & wait to be recognized by the Chair in order to enable everyone to share their opinion

9 References 1. Robert’s Rules of Order, Revised, 11 th Edition Jim Slaughter, Certified Professional Parliamentarian/Professional Registered Parliamentarian (P.O. Box 41027, Greensboro NC Phone: , web site: Nancy Sylvester, MA, PRP, CPP-T, Professional Registered Parliamentarian, Certified Professional Parliamentarian