do you have to *read* a motion

[gwfhegel]

We are doing some revisions to our (rather long) constitution and its explanatory handbook, where we have some rather long motions -- not as long as the Health Care Bill, but 8-9 single-spaced pages. We would prefer not to read the whole motion -- think of the time it would take. Can we distribute it electronically before the meeting and in printed form at the meeting in lieu of reading?

If not, is there another procedural way (unanimous consent? suspending the 'reading' rule for this motion by a 2/3rd vote) to avoid reading the motion?

[Rob Elsman]

We are doing some revisions to our (rather long) constitution and its explanatory handbook, where we have some rather long motions -- not as long as the Health Care Bill, but 8-9 single-spaced pages. We would prefer not to read the whole motion -- think of the time it would take. Can we distribute it electronically before the meeting and in printed form at the meeting in lieu of reading?

If not, is there another procedural way (unanimous consent? suspending the 'reading' rule for this motion by a 2/3rd vote) to avoid reading the motion?

It would be in order to ask unanimous consent that the reading be waived if the revisions have been distributed in advance of the meeting. The rule requiring the reading of the motion cannot be suspended by a two-thirds vote, because it protects the right of an individual member.

[David A Foulkes]

We are doing some revisions to our (rather long) constitution and its explanatory handbook, where we have some rather long motions -- not as long as the Health Care Bill, but 8-9 single-spaced pages. We would prefer not to read the whole motion -- think of the time it would take. Can we distribute it electronically before the meeting and in printed form at the meeting in lieu of reading?

If not, is there another procedural way (unanimous consent? suspending the 'reading' rule for this motion by a 2/3rd vote) to avoid reading the motion?

Since you're talking about amending (revising?) your constitution, there should be some notice requirements in place for this, I would think. Typically, this notice would require that the amendments be mailed (not emailed) to all members in advance, or as an alternative, presented at the previous meeting. This allows time for all members to review the amendments in preparation for the meeting at which the vote will be taken. This could allow you then to waive reading them at the meeting, if no member objects.

Does your constitution contain a section on amendment procedure? If so, and it should, that is how you need to go forward with this.

[gwfhegel]

Since you're talking about amending (revising?) your constitution, there should be some notice requirements in place for this, I would think. Typically, this notice would require that the amendments be mailed (not emailed) to all members in advance, or as an alternative, presented at the previous meeting. This allows time for all members to review the amendments in preparation for the meeting at which the vote will be taken. This could allow you then to waive reading them at the meeting, if no member objects.

Does your constitution contain a section on amendment procedure? If so, and it should, that is how you need to go forward with this.

David -- Happily (and wisely), we do have the requirement of two readings at two separate meetings for any constitutional change, as well as a requirement that the proposed amendments be circulated before the meeting. Thanks.