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Motion Etiquette & Debate Limitations

1. No motion is in order that conflicts with federal, state, or local law; with the rules of a parent organization; or with the organization's constitution or bylaws or other rules of the organization. Even if a unanimous vote adopts the motion, it is null and void if it conflicts with the previously mentioned rules.
2. A motion that proposes action outside the scope of the organization's object is not in order unless the members vote to allow it to be considered. Doing so takes a two-third vote.
3. A main motion is not in order if it conflicts with a motion that was previously adopted by the assembly and that is still in force. However, the assembly can decide to rescind the action or amend something previously adopted.
4. A main motion is not in order when it presents substantially the same question as a motion that was rejected during the same session. However, members can bring up the motion at another meeting, and this is known as renewing the motion.
5. A main motion is not in order if it conflicts with or presents substantially the same question as one that has been temporarily disposes of and is still within the control of the assembly.

Before you present a motion, make sure that it contains all the pertinent information, including who, what, where, and when. Word the motion in the positive, not in the negative.

Member: Mr. Chairman or Mr. Vice President

Member: I move that... or I move to...

Another member seconds the motion by calling out:

Member: I second the motion... or Second

The chairman moves members to the option to have the motion debated or discussed. When the discussing is finished, the motion is put to a vote. The results of the vote are announced and the motion is adopted or carried out.

The person who makes the motion has the first right to speak to the motion. After the member is done, he or she sits down so that someone else can speak to the motion either for or against it. In discussing the motion everyone must wait his or her turn. A member can speak to a motion only when no one else is assigned the floor. The chairman designates who should speak.

In debate, members address all remarks through the chair. Cross talk between members is not allowed, and mentioning other member's names is avoided as much as possible. All remarks should be made in a courteous tone.

“Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.” Henry Ford