Parliamentary Procedure

IV. Eight Phases/Aspects of a Motion

There are eight sorts of questions that ought to be asked about each and every motion, whether it is a main motion, appendage motion or an incidental motion. The Quick Reference Chart sets out the general answers to each of these eight questions or aspects for each of the kinds of motions.

A. May the motion apply to other motions?

Not all motions apply to other motions. A motion to amend (an appendage motion) applies to other motions, as does a motion to refer or reconsider; most motions do not.

B. May the speaker of this motion interrupt another member who is speaking?

Some matters are so important that a member is permitted to interrupt another member. A point of order or a call for the orders of the day, for example, may interrupt another member who is speaking.

C. Must the member be recognized before he can make this motion?

Some kinds of motions or matters may be raised even if the chair has not recognized the member. Motions to appeal the ruling of the chair or for a point of order, for example, do not require recognition.

D. Must this motion be seconded before it is officially before the assembly?

Ordinarily no matter can come before the assembly unless two persons support it. This rule is intended to reduce time wasted or obstructive tactics by a single individual. Some matters may come before the Assembly without a second: withdrawal of a motion or a point of order, for example.

E. Is this motion debatable?

Most motions are debatable; some are not. Appendage and subsidiary motions tend to be debatable if their principal motions are debatable. Some motions are not debatable because it would make no sense. A motion to close debate, for example, isn't debatable.

F. What is the vote required for adoption?

Most matter require a simple majority; some require two-thirds vote. Generally, if the action would seriously interfere with the rights of the minority of members, then a greater than simple majority may be required. For example, a motion to close debate requires a two-thirds vote.

G. May this motion be renewed after it has been voted down?

Some motions may not be made twice at the same meeting; others may be raised again, or raised again "after progress."

H. What other motions may apply to this motion?

Some motions may be subject to other motions; a main motion, for example, is subject to almost any other kind of subsidiary and appendage motion. A motion to adjourn, on the other hand, is subject to no other motions.

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