HOW IS BUSINESS BROUGHT BEFORE AN ASSEMBLY?
HOW DO MOTIONS WORK TOGETHER? WHAT ARE THE PRINCIPLES OF PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE? HOW IS BUSINESS BROUGHT BEFORE AN ASSEMBLY? A “motion” is a formal statement of a proposal or question to an assembly for consideration and action. A motion is brought before the assembly with three steps: 1. A member makes the motion. (“I move that . . . .”) 2. Another member seconds the motion. Seconder does not need to be recognized. 3. The chair states the question. “It is moved and seconded that (or to) . . . .” Once properly before the assembly, a motion is considered in three steps: 1. Members debate the motion (unless undebatable) Preference in recognition: (a) Member who made motion (b) Member who has not yet spoken a first time (c) If possible, alternate for and against 2. Chair puts question to a vote “The question is on the adoption of . . . .” (Voice vote) “As many as are in favor of the motion, say aye.” “Those opposed, say no.” (Rising vote) “Those in favor of the motion will rise [or “stan
