Parliamentary Procedure

Parliamentary Procedure
Robert’s Rules of Order, RONR 10th Ed. Senate Retreat 2008

Definition Parliamentary procedure, often used interchangeably with "parliamentary law," is more correctly defined as parliamentary law in combination with the rules of order that a given assembly or organization has adopted. Parliamentary law is: rules of the game of democracy. rules and customs that govern deliberative and decision-making assemblies and organizations.”

“The term rules of order refers to written rules of parliamentary procedure formally adopted by a group of people or by an organization. These rules relate to the orderly transaction of business in meetings and to the duties of officers in facilitating the conduct of business. An organization's rules of order may include bylaws, standing rules, policy manuals, and other rules. (RONR 10th ed.) Objectives Parliamentary procedure establishes the purpose and structure of organizations; defines membership classifications, rights, and obligations; and defines rules and procedures for conducting business.”

Rules of Order The Law The SGA Constitution The SGC-UP Bylaws
Robert’s Rules of Order (RONR 10th ed.) Custom

Outline I. Meetings II. Motions III. Debate IV. Amendments
V. Postponing & Referring to a Committee VI. Voting VII. Rules VIII. Motions Guide

I. Meetings Outline A. Presiding Officer and Secretary B. Quorum
C. Order of Business D. Agenda E. Adjournment/Recess/Stand at Ease

I. Meetings, A. Presiding Officer & Secretary
Preside: The process of overseeing a meeting and the enforcement of rules. Chairman: Individual specifically elected to preside over the meeting. (i.e. Senate Speaker, President) “The Chair”: The title given and addressed to the chairman when he/she is actually presiding the meeting. President: Title given usually to an individual elected to preside over the meeting for an elongated period of time (i.e. 1 year, etc). Secretary: Individual elected or appointed to take minutes of the meeting. Minutes: Written record of what is done during the meetings. They are approved by majority vote. Preside: The process of overseeing a meeting and the enforcement of rules. Chairman: Individual specifically elected to preside over the meeting. (i.e. Senate Speaker, President) “The Chair”: The title given and addressed to the chairman when he/she is actually presiding the meeting. President: Title given usually to an individual elected to preside over the meeting for an elongated period of time (i.e. 1 year, etc). Sectary: Individual elected or appointed to take minutes of the meeting. Minutes: Written record of what is done during the meetings. They are approved by majority vote. (See Ch. 4)[1] [1] RONR (10th ed.) p Secretary and Chairperson are the two essential officers needed in a meeting.

I. Meetings, B. Quorum Quorum: This is the minimum amount of members needed in attendance to get any formal business done (i.e. approving minutes, voting on legislation, etc). SGC-UP quorum is a simple majority of members.[1] SGC-UP Senate Quorum is 14 or more Senators. University Wide Council is a simple majority given restrictions.[2] “Any substantive action taken in the absence of a Quorum is invalid.”[3] Quorum: This is the minimum amount of members needed in attendance to get any formal business done (i.e. approving minutes, voting on legislation, etc). SGA-UP quorum is a simple majority of members.[1] SGA-UP Senate Quorum is 13 or more Senators. University Wide Council is a simple majority given restrictions.[2] “Any substantive action taken in the absence of a Quorum is invalid.”[3] [1] RONR (10th ed.) p If Quorum is not defined in bylaws, it is a majority of members (50%+1) [2] Constitution Article X, A. 4b. “provided that at least two members representing each SGC is present.” [3] RONR (10th ed.), p , RONR Brief pg. 13. Quorum must be maintained throughout meeting.

I. Meetings, C. Order of Business
Call to order: The beginning of the meeting as called by the residing chair. “The meeting will come to order.” Order of Business: The set order of discussing and tackling various issues. Exp: Simplified Standard of Order of Business Reading and Approval of Minutes Reports Unfinished Business New Business Call to order: The beginning of the meeting as called by the residing chair. “The meeting will come to order.” Order of Business: The set order of discussing and tackling various issues. Exp: Simplified Standard of Order of Business Reading and Approval of Minutes Reports Unfinished Business New Business

1. Reading and Approval of Minutes: Chair states: “The secretary will read the minutes.” Then Chair will ask “Are there any corrections to the minutes?” Disputes are debated and corrections made via vote (majority). Chair then states “If there are no [further] corrections, the minutes are approved.” 2. Reports: The chair asks for reports to be read; “May we have the Treasurer’s Report?” Reports generally give information as well as include recommendations of action for the assembly. Recommendations are debated and voted upon. [SKIP] Reading and Approval of Minutes: Chair states: “The secretary will read the minutes.” Then Chair will ask “Are there any corrections to the minutes?” Disputes are debated and corrections made via vote (majority). Chair then states “If there are no [further] corrections, the minutes are approved.” 2. Reports: The chair asks for reports to be read; “May we have the Treasurer’s Report?” Reports generally give information as well as include recommendations of action for the assembly. Recommendations are debated and voted upon. 3. Unfinished Business: After reports, Chair asks, “Under unfinished business, the first item of business is the motion relating to…, which was pending when the last meeting adjourned. The question is on the adoption of the motion [stating the motion]… [After item debated and voted on:] The next item of business is…” Unfinished business is defined as: An item that was in the process of being discussed before interrupted by last meeting being adjourned, or… An item that was scheduled for consideration last meeting, but was not discussed before said meeting was adjourned. 4. New Business: After unfinished business, Chair asks, “Is there any new business?” Members may then bring new items forward via motions .[1] [1] Motions are discussed in chapter 2, and RONR (10th ed.), p. 349

Unfinished Business: After reports, Chair asks, “Under unfinished business, the first item of business is the motion relating to…, which was pending when the last meeting adjourned. The question is on the adoption of the motion [stating the motion]… [After item debated and voted on:] The next item of business is…” Unfinished business is defined as: New Business: After unfinished business, Chair asks, “Is there any new business?” Members may then bring new items forward via motions Unfinished Business: After reports, Chair asks, “Under unfinished business, the first item of business is the motion relating to…, which was pending when the last meeting adjourned. The question is on the adoption of the motion [stating the motion]… [After item debated and voted on:] The next item of business is…” Unfinished business is defined as: An item that was in the process of being discussed before interrupted by last meeting being adjourned, or… An item that was scheduled for consideration last meeting, but was not discussed before said meeting was adjourned. New Business: After unfinished business, Chair asks, “Is there any new business?” Members may then bring new items forward via motions

I. Meetings, D. Agenda Agenda: Agenda is a scheduled adopted and voted upon by the group. It may set exact voted upon times and order of business. Agenda: Agenda is a scheduled adopted and voted upon by the group. It may set exact voted upon times and order of business.

I. Meetings, E. Adjournment/ Recess/Stand at Ease
Adjournment: Chair states, “Is there any further business?... Since there is no further business the meeting is adjourned.” An adjourned meeting means it is closed. A majority may vote to close a meeting given there being un-tackled orders of business. Recess: A majority may vote to have a timed period of recess to leave the room. Stand at Ease: The chair may call for a stand at ease where the meeting is paused and members talk in their seats until the chair calls the meeting to order. Adjournment: Chair states, “Is there any further business?... Since there is no further business the meeting is adjourned.” An adjourned meeting means it is closed. A majority may vote to close a meeting given there being un-tackled orders of business. Recess: A majority may vote to have a timed period of recess to leave the room. Stand at Ease: The chair may call for a stand at ease where the meeting is paused and members talk in their seats until the chair calls the meeting to order.

II. Motions Outline A. Motions B. Speaking at a Meeting
C. How a Motion Gets Before the Group D. How a Group Considers a Motion

II. Motions, A. Main Motions
Motion: Formal proposal by a member during a meeting that leads the group to take certain action.[1] Main Motion: A motion that brings business before the assembly. Only one main motion is allowed on the floor at a time. No debate is done on a subject unless first brought forth by a motion.[2] Motion: Formal proposal by a member during a meeting that leads the group to take certain action.[1] Main Motion: A motion that brings business before the assembly. Only one motion is allowed on the floor at a time. No debate is done on a subject unless first brought forth by a motion.[2] [1] RONR (10th ed.), p. 26, [2] RONR (10th ed.), p. 32, 1. 34

II. Motions, B. Speaking Recognized: To make a motion or speak in a debate, you stand up immediately after the previous speaker and address the chair by their title; “Madam Chairperson”, etc. The chair then designates you as the new speaker, recognizing you by usually calling you by your name or title, “Mr. Goenaga”. Have the Floor: When authorized to speak by the Chairperson, you are said to “Have the Floor.” Yield the Floor: When you finish, you sit down and thus “Yield the Floor” to other speakers. Recognized: To make a motion or speak in a debate, you stand up immediately after the previous speaker and address the chair by their title; “Madam Chairperson”, etc. The chair then designates you as the new speaker, recognizing you by usually calling you by your name or title, “Mr. Goenaga”. Have the Floor: When authorized to speak by the Chairperson, you are said to “Have the Floor” Yield the Floor: When you finish, you sit down and thus “Yield the Floor” to other speakers.[1] [1] RONR (10th ed.), p ,

II. Motions, B. Speaking, EXP:
Getting Recognized to Speak MEMBER A [Stands]: Mr. Speaker! CHAIR: Mr A. MEMBER A: It’s not a very good idea to… [Sits down when finished speaking].” “Getting Recognized to Speak MEMBER A [Stands]: Mr. Speaker! CHAIR: Mr A. MEMBER A: It’s not a very good idea to… [Sits down when finished speaking].”

II. Motions, C. Making a Motion
How to Make a Motion: To make a motion, you simply say “I move that…” when you Have the Floor. You then describe the proposal. 1. How to Make a Motion: To make a motion, you simply say “I move that…” when you Have the Floor. You then describe the proposal. a. Exp: “I move that the Tennis League establish a division open to juniors and seniors.” b. It is important to be precise with the words of your motion, as it gets copied verbatim by the secretary. c. It is good to write your motion beforehand and hand out copies to the secretary and Chair. After giving your motion, you sit down and wait to discuss your reasons for making the proposal later.

II. Motions, C. Making a Motion, EXP:
MEMBER A [Stands]: Mr. Speaker! CHAIR: Mr. A. MEMBER A: I move that the Tennis League establish a division open to juniors and seniors enrolled in city high schools. [When finished making the motion, be seated. Wait until later to explain why the motion is a good idea.] Making a Motion MEMBER A [Stands]: Mr. Speaker! CHAIR: Mr. A. MEMBER A: I move that the Tennis League establish a division open to juniors and seniors enrolled in city high schools. [When finished making the motion, be seated. Wait until later to explain why the motion is a good idea.]

II. Motions, C. Making a Motion
“Seconding” a Motion: After a motion is made, a Senator/Member needs to second it in order for said Motion to be discussed. The person seconding a motion doesn’t need to agree with it, but only have the desire to consider it. The Chair “States” a Question: After a motion is moved and seconded, the Chair states the question on the motion. The chair says “It is moved and seconded that”, and then repeats the motion exactly. 1. “Seconding” a Motion: After a motion is made, a Senator/Member needs to second it in order for said Motion to be discussed. The person seconding a motion doesn’t need to agree with it, but only have the desire to consider it. a. You second a motion by calling out; “Second!” You can remain seated and don’t need to be recognized by the Chair.[1] 2. The Chair “States” a Question: After a motion is moved and seconded, the Chief states the question on the motion. The chair says “It is moved and seconded that”, and then repeats the motion exactly. “It is moved and seconded that the Tennis League establish a division open to juniors and seniors enrolled in city high schools.” a. Chair restates motion so all members/Senators have the opportunity to hear it clearly. b. The Chair also needs to State motion: i. To make sure the Motion is in order as according to the rules. The Chair can state “The chair rules that the motion is not in order because…” Motions are in order rules will be discussed later. ii. Must ensure motion is clearly phrased. Chair can help mover re-word it. [1] RONR (10th ed.), p

II. Motions C. Making a Motion, EXP:
Making, Seconding, and Stating a Motion MEMBER A [Stands]: Mr. Speaker! CHAIR: Mr. A. MEMBER A: I move that the Tennis League establish a division open to juniors and seniors enrolled in city high schools. [When finished making the motion, be seated. Wait until later to explain why the motion is a good idea.] MEMBER B [Seated]: Second! CHAIR: It is moved and seconded that the Tennis League establish a division open to juniors and seniors enrolled in city high schools.

II. Motions D. Group Consideration
Debate on Motion Pending: When motion stated by chair, it is pending or “on the floor”. Debate: When motion is pending/on-the-floor, it is now open to debate. Debate is the discussion of the merits of the question. After stated, Chair usually turns to Maker of Motion to see if he/she wished to be assigned to the floor. 1. Debate on a Motion: a. Pending: When motion stated by chair, it is pending or “on the floor”. b. Debate: When motion is pending/on-the-floor, it is now open to debate. Debate is the discussion of the merits of the question. After stated, Chair usually turns to Maker of Motion to see if he/she wished to be assigned to the floor.

II. Motions D. Group Consideration, EXP:
Debate MEMBER A [Stands]: Mr. Speaker! CHAIR: Mr. A. MEMBER A: We need to bring young people into tennis to keep the sport alive… [Sits when finished]. MEMBER B [Stands after Member A sits]: Mr. Speaker! CHAIR: Mrs. B MEMBER B: Most of our members are adults. High school students should establish their own league… [Sits when finished]. Debate MEMBER A [Stands]: Mr. Speaker! CHAIR: Mr. A. MEMBER A: We need to bring young people into tennis to keep the sport alive… [Sits when finished]. MEMBER B [Stands after Member A sits]: Mr. Speaker! CHAIR: Mrs. B MEMBER B: Most of our members are adults. High school students should establish their own league… [Sits when finished].

II. Motions, D. Group Consideration
Chair “Puts” The Question When no one is left seeking Recognition for debate, the chair may ask “Are you ready for the question?” or “Is there any further debate?” If no further debate, the Chair stands and puts the question to a vote. 1. Chair “Puts” The Question a. When no one is left seeking Recognition for debate, the chair may ask “Are you ready for the question?” or “Is there any further debate?” If no further debate, the Chair stands and puts the question to a vote.[1] b. Chair does so by standing and saying “The question is on the adoption of the motion that…” and then repeats the exact words of the motion. The chair then gives the directions of voting (Roll-Call). c. Voting will be that of Roll-Call for resolutions and bills.[2] Roll-Call requires that each Senator be named alphabetically, giving a loud “Yea” or “No”. Their vote is then recorded by the Secretary or Clerk.[3] [1] RONR (10th ed.), p. 36, [2] SGC-UP Bylaws 2008, Article X (b) &XI (d) [3] SGC-UP Bylaws 2008, Article X (b)

II. Motions, D. Group Consideration, EXP:
Putting the Question CHAIR: The question is on the adoption of the motion that the Tennis League establish a division open to juniors and seniors enrolled in city high schools. Those in favor of the motion, say aye, those against no. [Calls Senators one by one] Some Members, when called [Seated] Aye! Some Members, when called [Seated]: No! Putting the Question [POINT OF ROLL CALL!] CHAIR: The question is on the adoption of the motion that the Tennis League establish a division open to juniors and seniors enrolled in city high schools. Those in favor of the motion, say aye, those against no. [Calls Senators one by one] Some Members, when called [Seated] Aye! Some Members, when called [Seated]: No!

II. Motions, D. Group Consideration
Chair Announces Results of the Vote After the votes are collected, the Chair announces the results. It has four parts: i. Reporting which side “has it”. “The ayes have it, and the motion is adopted.” ii. Reporting that the motion/bill/resolution is adopted or lost. iii. Reporting the effects of the vote. iv. Reporting the next item of business (if any). 1. Chair Announces Results of the Vote After the votes are collected, the Chair announces the results. It has four parts: i. Reporting which side “has it”. “The ayes have it, and the motion is adopted.” ii. Reporting that the motion/bill/resolution is adopted or lost. iii. Reporting the effects of the vote. iv. Reporting the next item of business (if any).

II. Motions, Review MEMBER A [Stands]: Mr. Speaker! CHAIR: Mr. A.
MEMBER A: I move that the Tennis League establish a division open to juniors and seniors enrolled in city high schools. [When finished making the motion, be seated. Wait until later to explain why the motion is a good idea.] MEMBER B [Seated]: Second! CHAIR: It is moved and seconded that the Tennis League establish a division open to juniors and seniors enrolled in city high schools. MEMBER A: We need to bring young people into tennis to keep the sport alive… [Sits when finished]. MEMBER B [Stands after Member A sits]: Mr. Speaker! CHAIR: Mrs. B MEMBER B: Most of our members are adults. High school students should establish their own league… [Sits when finished]. CHAIR: Is there any further debate?...The question is on the adoption of the motion that the Tennis League establish a division open to juniors and seniors enrolled in city high schools. Those in favor of the motion, say aye, those against no. [Calls Senators one by one] Some Members, when called [Seated] Aye! Some Members, when called [Seated]: No! CHAIR: The ayes have it, and the motion is adopted. The Tennis League will establish a division open to juniors and seniors enrolled in city high schools. Is there further new business? MEMBER A [Stands]: Mr. Speaker! CHAIR: Mr. A. MEMBER A: I move that the Tennis League establish a division open to juniors and seniors enrolled in city high schools. [When finished making the motion, be seated. Wait until later to explain why the motion is a good idea.] MEMBER B [Seated]: Second! CHAIR: It is moved and seconded that the Tennis League establish a division open to juniors and seniors enrolled in city high schools. MEMBER A: We need to bring young people into tennis to keep the sport alive… [Sits when finished]. MEMBER B [Stands after Member A sits]: Mr. Speaker! CHAIR: Mrs. B MEMBER B: Most of our members are adults. High school students should establish their own league… [Sits when finished]. CHAIR: Is there any further debate?...The question is on the adoption of the motion that the Tennis League establish a division open to juniors and seniors enrolled in city high schools. Those in favor of the motion, say aye, those against no. [Calls Senators one by one] Some Members, when called [Seated] Aye! Some Members, when called [Seated]: No! CHAIR: The ayes have it, and the motion is adopted. The Tennis League will establish a division open to juniors and seniors enrolled in city high schools. Is there further new business?

III. Debate Outline A. Rules of Debate
B. Limit or Extend Limits of Debate C. Close Debate Immediately: Move to the Previous Question A. Rules of Debate B. Limit or Extend Limits of Debate C. Close Debate Immediately: Move to the Previous Question

III. Debate, A. Rules of Debate
Speech Limits in Debate: Each member may speak twice on any debatable motion for up to 10 minute each. This does change with secondary's. Recognition: The Chair designates, or recognizes, who to speak by addressing the first person who rises after Speaker finishes talking and sat down. You cannot stand for recognition and interrupt someone recognized until they finish speaking and sit down (unless with an Incidental Motion) . 1. Speech Limits in Debate: Each member may speak twice on any debatable motion for up to 10 minute each. Recognition: The Chair designates, or recognizes, who to speak by addressing the first person who rises after Speaker finishes talking and sat down. You cannot stand for recognition and interrupt someone recognized until they finish speaking and sit down.

Germane: Your speech must have bearing on whether the pending motion/bill should or should not be adopted. One cannot talk about things at random. Stick to the subject. Debate issues, not personalities. 1. Stick to the Subject a. Germane: Your speech must have bearing on whether the pending motion/bill should or should not be adopted. One cannot talk about things at random. 2. Debate Issues, Not Personalities a. You simply never attack an individual personally.

Formalities You never address another individual, but always speak as if to the Chair. “Mr. Speaker, the previous speaker’s points were wrong for the following reasons…” Instead of names, officers are addressed by titles and members usually as “the previous speaker” or “Gentleman/Gentlewoman”. 1. Formalities a. You never address another individual, but always speak as if to the Chair. “Mr. Speaker, the previous speaker’s points were wrong for the following reasons…” b. “Mr. Speaker, may Member A. clarify his previous point?” Instead of names, officers are addressed by titles and members usually as “the previous speaker”.

III. Debate B. Limit or Extend Limit
Limit & Extend Limit This is a motion made to limit the time of debate. Debate Timeframe (debate for 1 hour). Member Debate Time (from 10 minutes to 2). EXP: MEMBER A: “I move that in debate on the pending amendment, each member be limited to one speech of three minutes.” Debate can continue until ever member exhausts their two 10 minute limits. However, the group can vote to Limit or Extend the limits of Debate. This could give a specific time when debate should stop (5:15pm, etc) or a specific time-frame (Debate for no more than one hour). It can also limit the amount of time each person has to talk (5 minutes instead of 10). You may also use this motion to do the opposite, and increase the amount of time each person can talk, or how many speeches they may make. There is no debate on Limits/Extensions. “I move that in debate on the pending amendment, each member be limited to one speech of three minutes.”[1] [1] RONR (10th ed.), p ,

III. Debate, C. Motion for Previous Question
Motion for Previous Question: A motion to end debate. It also ends secondary motions (such as Amend, Commit, etc), as well as prevents it from being moved later during the meeting. It requires a 2/3 vote, and is also undebatable. Also needs to be seconded. EXP: MEMBER A: “I move the previous question.” Motion for Previous Question: A motion to end debate. It also ends secondary motions (such as Amend, Commit, etc), as well as prevents it from being moved later during the meeting. It requires a 2/3 vote, and is also undebatable. Also needs to be seconded. It will use a standing vote. “I move the previous question.”

IV. Amendments Outline A. Definition B. Word Changes
C. Amending Paragraphs D. Amending Amendments E. Germaneness & Amendments F. Settled

IV. Amendments, A. Definition
Amendments: Sometimes you may hear a motion but may want to change a specific word, or remove one. When you want to modify the motion, you propose an amendment. It is important to be specific with your proposed amendment. 1. Amendments: Sometimes you may hear a motion but may want to change a specific word, or remove one. When you want to modify the motion, you propose an amendment. It is important to be specific with your propose amendment. a. After a vote on an amendment, the Motion hasn’t passed but is merely now debated as amended. In the end, when voting on the Motion, it is voted as amended.

IV. Amendments, B. Simple Word Changes
Insert or Add Words If you wanted to insert words somewhere in a motion, you would wait until recognized and say “I move to insert words ‘…’ before ‘…’ ” If you wanted to add words at the end of a motion, you would wait until recognized and say “I move to add words ‘…’ ” Strike Out Words If you want to strike out a word or words from a motion, you make an Amendment to Strike Out “I move to strike out the words ‘…’ ” Strike Out and Insert Words If you want to strike out a word or words, and insert in their place other words, you make an Amendment to Strike Out & Insert, or “I move to strike out the words ‘…’ and insert the words ‘…’ ” 1. Insert or Add Words: a. If you wanted to insert words somewhere in a motion, you would wait until recognized and say “I move to insert words ‘…’ before ‘…’ ” b. If you wanted to add words at the end of a motion, you would wait until recognized and say “I move to add words ‘…’ ” c. If this amendment is seconded, the chair states the amendment, and then recognizes the mover to open debate, and after debate the Chair puts the question of the amendment, and then the group votes for the amendment. 2. Strike Out Words: a. If you want to strike out a word or words from a motion, you make an Amendment to Strike Out “I move to strike out the words ‘…’ ”[1] 3. Strike Out and Insert Words: Is you want to strike out a word or words, and insert in their place other words, you make an Amendment to Strike Out & Insert, or “I move to strike out the words ‘…’ and insert the words ‘…’ ”[2] [1] RONR (10th ed.), p [2] RONR (10th ed.), p

IV. Amendments, C. Amending Paragraphs
Insert or Add a Paragraph Same process as the Insert or Add word/words. Strike out a Paragraph Same process as the Strike-out word/words. Substitute (strike out and insert) Same process as the strike out and insert word/words. 1. Insert or Add a Paragraph a. Same process as the Insert or Add word/words. 2. Strike out a Paragraph a. Same process as the Strike-out word/words. 3. Substitute (strike out and insert) Same process as the strike out and insert word/words.

IV. Amendments, D. Amending Amendments
Secondary Amendment: An amended motion can be amended a second time, however secondary amendments cannot be amended. You cannot have a third layer of amendments. Secondary Amendment: An amended motion can be amended a second time, however secondary amendments cannot be amended. You cannot have a third layer of amendments, as this would continue to stretch off into confusion.

IV. Amendments, E. Germaness & Amendments
All amendments proposed must relate somehow to the initial proposed motion and the raised question it concerns itself with. All amendments proposed must relate somehow to the initial proposed motion and the raised question it concerns itself with.

IV. Amendments, F. Settled
Settled: “The basic rule is that after the group has voted that certain words shall, or shall not, be part of a motion, you cannot offer another amendment that raises the same question of content and effect. Common sense is necessary to apply this principle from case to case.”[1] “The basic rule is that after the group has voted that certain words shall, or shall not, be part of a motion, you cannot offer another amendment that raises the same question of content and effect. Common sense is necessary to apply this principle from case to case.”[1] [1] RONR In Brief p. 51

V. Postponing & Referring Outline
A. Postpone to a Certain Time B. Commit or Refer

V. Postponing & Referring, A. Postponing
Postpone to a Certain Time: This is a subsidiary motion made to postpone discussion on a main motion till a later time (some meeting or next). Adopted by Majority Vote. Also known as Motion to Postpone Definitely, or Postpone I move to postpone the motion until 3pm OR I move to postpone the motion to the next meeting. (In this case it will come up right after unfinished business at the next meeting.) a. If adopted by a majority vote, it puts off further consideration of the main motion to a later time or meeting named in the motion b. After a motion to Postpone to a Certain Time has been stated, it may itself be amended, for example to change the time of the proposed postponement. i. It is also debatable, but the debate must be limited to the motion to Postpone, excluding the amendment or the main motion on the table. I move to postpone the motion until 3pm OR I move to postpone the motion to the next meeting. (In this case it will come up right after unfinished business at the next meeting.)[1] [1] RONR In Brief p. 53

V. Postponing & Referring, B. Committing & Referring
Standing Committees have a continuing existence and function, normally responsible over a particular subject matter. Special Committees are created for a particular task, and go out of existence when that task is completed. Motion to Commit: If you feel the Main Motion would best be drafted & edited in a committee, you can motion it to one. Before voting on a main motion, you may feel that it would profit from redrafting, revising, or further study by a small group of people. The motion to Commit (Refer to a committee) allows this. a. It requires a majority vote. b. Should identify the committee to which the motion is to be referred. i. It may include instructions to the committee, such as when to report back, or to propose an amendment accordingly. Committees are two basic types: 1. Standing Committees have a continuing existence and function, normally responsibility over a particular subject matter. a) (Academic Affairs, Finance, International Students, Student Services, Student Union, Speakers Bureau).[1] Special Committees are created for a particular task, and go out of existence when that task is completed. [1] FIU SGA Constitution, Article V C., a. i.-vi.

VI. Voting, Outline A. Types of Voting B. Unanimous Consent

VI. Voting, A. Types of Voting
Majority Vote Simple majority of those voting. Plurality Vote The largest number of votes when there are three or more alternatives President (Not RONR) Two-Thirds Vote At least two thirds of the votes cast by persons legally qualified to vote. Majority of Entire Membership Vote A majority of the total number of those who are members. a. Majority Vote: Most common vote required to adopt a motion or elect to office. Defined as “more than half” of the votes cast by persons legally entitled to vote. i. Usually misinterpreted as 50% +1 ii. Only a majority of those actually voting is required. b. Plurality Vote: The largest number of votes when there are three or more alternatives i. Under Robert’s Rules, however, plurality votes are not sufficient; decisions require a majority vote. c. Two-Thirds Vote: at least two thirds of the votes cast by persons legally qualified to vote, excluding blanks or abstentions, at a regular or properly called meeting at which quorum is present. i. Most commonly used to suspend the rules (see Ch11), or to close, limit, or extend the limits of debate (see Ch4) d. Majority of the Entire Membership: a majority of the total number of those who are members of the voting body at the time of the vote. Such as adopting a motion to Rescind or one to Amend Something Previously Adopted

VI. Voting, B. Unanimous Consent
Unanimous consent enables a motion to be adopted or some action to be taken without the necessity of having the process for routine matters. It even permits taking action without the formality of a motion being made at all. The Chair asks the assembly for any objections to the procedure. If no member objects (by simply saying “I object), then the chair declares the action has been agreed to. Unanimous consent enables a motion to be adopted or some action to be taken without the necessity of having the process for routine matters. It even permits taking action without the formality of a motion being made at all. · The Chair asks the assembly for any objections to the procedure. If no member objects, then the chair declares the action has been agreed to.

VII. Rules, Outline A. Point of Order Appeal Parliamentary Inquiry

VII. Rules, A. Point of Order
When you believe there to be a violation of the Rules of order, you may interrupt the Chair or a Speaker and call out “Point of Order!” without being recognized. “The member will state her point of order.” You then explain why you believe a rule has been broken and then sit down. The chair then rules on your Point of Order, saying “The chair rules that the point of order is well taken.” Or the opposite, and then explaining why or why not. 1. The Chair is in charge of enforcing the rules. When you believe there to be a violation of the Rules of order, you may interrupt the Chair or a Speaker and call out “Point of Order!” without being recognized. 2. Anyone speaking sits, and the chair states “The member will state her point of order.” You then explain why you believe a rule has been broken and then sit down. The chair then rules on your Point of Order, saying “The chair rules that the point of order is well taken.” Or the opposite, and then explaining why or why not.

VII. Rules B. Appeal If you believe the Chair to be wrong still, you may Appeal to the entire Senate/Group. Without being recognized, you stand and state “I appeal from the decision of the chair.” If it is seconded, it is debated, and then goes for a majority vote. Majority in the negative is needed. 1. The Chair alone judges on the Point of order. If you believe the Chair to be wrong still, you may Appeal to the entire Senate/Group. Without being recognized, you stand and state “I appeal from the decision of the chair.” If it is seconded, it is debated, and then goes for a majority vote. The Appeal is then stated by the Chair after debate, and brought to a vote: “Shall the decision of the chair be sustained?” To overrule the Chair’s decision, a majority vote of the negative is needed.

VII. Rules C. Parliamentary Inquiry
When you want to ask a question concerning Parliamentary procedure, and how it relates to the discussion pending, you may, without recognition, stand and state “A parliamentary inquiry, please.” When you want to ask a question concerning Parliamentary procedure, and how it relates to the discussion pending, you may, without recognition, stand and state “A parliamentary inquiry, please.” You need not be seconded, and after the chair’s reply of “The member will state the inquiry,” you offer your question.

VIII. Motions, Guide Outline
Main Motion:“is a motion whose introduction brings business before an assembly.” Subsidiary/Secondary Motions: “assist the assembly in treating or disposing of a main motion” Immediately Pending Motions: This is the motion, main or secondary, that is currently being discussed before the group. Incidental Motion: These are motions that do not fall under the Precedence of Motions chart, and are made to challenge rules of order (Point of order, Appeal. Etc). They arise incidentally out of other motions and rules of procedure. These take precedence over all other pending motions. 1. Main Motion: “is a motion whose introduction bring business before an assembly.”[1] 2. Subsidiary/Secondary Motions: “assist the assembly in treating or disposing of a main motion (and sometimes other motions.)[2] 3. Immediately Pending motions: This is the motion, main or secondary, that is currently being discussed before the group. Incidental Motion: These are motions that do not fall under the Precedence of Motions chart, and are made to challenge rules of order (Point of order, Appeal. Etc). They arise incidentally out of other motions and rules of procedure. These take precedence over all other pending motions. [1] RONR The Brief, p. 126, RONR (10th ed.), p [2] RONR the Brief, p. 126

VIII. Motions Guide, Tactics
The Common Motions Classified According to Their Objects. (1) To Modify or Amend. (a) Amend (b) Commit or Refer (2) To Defer Action. (a) Postpone to a Certain Time (b) Make a Special Order (2/3 Vote) (c) Lay on the Table (3) To Suppress or Limit Debate (2/3 Vote). (a) Previous Question (to close debate now) (2/3 Vote) (b) Limit Debate (2/3 Vote) (4) To Suppress the Question. (a) Objection to Its Consideration (2/3 Vote) (b) Previous Question and Reject Question (c) Postpone Indefinitely (d) Lay on the Table (5) To Consider a Question a Second Time. (a) Take from the Table (b) Reconsider (c) Rescind (6) To Prevent Final Action on a Question in an Unusually Small or Unrepresentative Meeting. (a) Reconsider and have Entered on the Minutes The Common Motions Classified According to Their Objects. (1) To Modify or Amend. (a) Amend (b) Commit or Refer (2) To Defer Action. (a) Postpone to a Certain Time (b) Make a Special Order (2/3 Vote) (c) Lay on the Table (3) To Suppress or Limit Debate (2/3 Vote). (a) Previous Question (to close debate now) (2/3 Vote) (b) Limit Debate (2/3 Vote) (4) To Suppress the Question. (a) Objection to Its Consideration (2/3 Vote) (b) Previous Question and Reject Question (c) Postpone Indefinitely (d) Lay on the Table (5) To Consider a Question a Second Time. (a) Take from the Table (b) Reconsider (c) Rescind (6) To Prevent Final Action on a Question in an Unusually Small or Unrepresentative Meeting. (a) Reconsider and have Entered on the Minutes (Constitution.org, Robert Rules of Order, Public Domain 1915)

VIII. Motions Guide, Precedence of Motions
Taking Precedence: When one motion yields to another, the latter motion takes precedence and becomes the immediately pending motion. If you are discussing a Motion, and someone motions to amend it, the main motion yields to the motion to amend.

In Conclusion You Learned…
Presiding Officer Quorum Order of Business Agenda Adjournment Recess Stand at Ease Motions Speaking at a Meeting Getting a Motion before a Group Seconding Chair ‘Stating’ Debating Chair ‘Putting’ Debate Limits Previous Question Amendments Word Changes Paragraph Changes Germaness Settled Postpone to a Certain Time Commit or Refer Standing & Special Committees Types of Voting Unanimous Consent Point of Order Appeal Parliamentary Inquiry Main Motion Subsidiary/Secondary Motions Immediately Pending Motions Incidental Motions Precedence of Motions Order of Precedence

Thank You! Move to Adjourn Robert’s Rules…?
Any Parliamentary Questions? me at Or Call me at Sources: RONR 10th Edition, RONR Brief 10th Edition,

Parliamentary Procedure

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