Some Common Motions in Robert’s Rules of Order
What You Want
to Do
Make a Motion
What You Say
Amend a Motion
“I move to amend
the motion on the
floor in the
following way…”
Yes! There are
no “friendly
amendments”
Consider only one
part of the motion
“I move to divide
the question.”
Yes
End Discussion
“I call the previous
question.”
Yes
Refer the Matter to “I move to refer
a Committee
this question to
committee X” OR “I
move to create an
ad hoc committee
to consider X”
Postpone
“I move to
Consideration of a postpone the
Motion to a
motion on the floor
Specific Time
until X”
Yes
Yes
If seconded, then discussion is
followed by a vote on postponement.
Set a Motion Aside
“I move to table the
question.”
Yes
If seconded, then immediate vote to
set matter aside.
Bring a Tabled
Motion Back
“I move to take X
from the table”
Yes
If seconded, then immediate vote to
bring motion back for discussion.
Suspend a Rule of
the Senate
“I move to suspend
rule X of this body”
Yes
Cannot suspend constitutional rules.
If seconded, immediate vote. 2/3
majority required.
Point out an Error
in the Proceedings
“Point of Order, Mr.
President”
No
You may ask a question about the
proceeding or point out the error.
“I move that…”
Requires a
Second?
Yes
What Happens Next
If seconded, then discussion begins on
motion, followed by vote. Mover
speaks first but may not speak again
until all others have spoken, unless
called upon by President.
If seconded, then discussion begins on
the amendment only. Any vote taken is
only on the amendment. After vote,
discussion returns to original motion
(perhaps now amended depending on
vote).
Each part of the motion must be able
to stand on its own. If seconded,
immediate vote on the division of the
motion only.
If seconded, requires immediate vote
to end discussion. 2/3 majority
required.
If seconded, then discussion is
followed by a vote on whether to
refer the matter to a committee.
Some Robert’s Rules Essentials
(The “Why” of Robert’s Rules / Parliamentary Procedure)
What Is Parliamentary Procedure?
It is a set of rules for conduct at meetings, which allows everyone to be heard and
to make decisions without confusion.
Why is Parliamentary Procedure Important?
Because it's a time tested method of conducting business at meetings and public
gatherings. It can be adapted to fit the needs of any organization. Today, Robert's
Rules of Order newly revised is the basic handbook of operation for most clubs,
organizations and other groups. So it's important that everyone know these basic
rules!
Parliamentary Procedure is the best way to get things done at your meetings and
to ensure that everyone’s view point in the discussion is respected and treated
fairly. But, it will only work if you use it properly.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Allow motions that are in order.
Have members obtain the floor properly.
Speak clearly and concisely.
Obey the rules of debate.
Most importantly, BE COURTEOUS.
The method used by members to express themselves is in the form of moving motions. A motion is a
proposal that the entire membership take action or a stand on an issue. Individual members can:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Call to order.
Second motions.
Debate motions.
Vote on motions.
The basic types of motions and related procedures are summarized on the reverse of this page.
Once a motion has been thoroughly discussed it may be voted on.
There are two other motions that are commonly used that relate to voting.
1.
2.
Motion to Table -- This motion is often used in the attempt to "kill" a motion. The option is always
present, however, to "take from the table", for reconsideration by the membership.
Motion to Postpone Indefinitely -- This is often used as a means of parliamentary strategy and
allows opponents of motion to test their strength without an actual vote being taken. Also, debate
is once again open on the main motion.
A Final Note:
Please do your best as a Faculty Senator to be familiar with and prepared to use these
basics of Parliamentary Procedure. When in doubt about a point of order or a senate
process please rely upon the support of the Faculty Senate Parliamentarian.
An electronic form of this document is available at the UAA Faculty Governance website. This document
has been adapted from a web resource at: http://www.robertsrules.org/rulesintro.htm