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Second needed?


Guest Gary S

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At the board meetings of our small historical society, when someone makes a motion, the group often leaps into discussion before an official second has been heard. Often several members have addressed the topic before someone points out there has been no second. Sometimes the lack of a second is even used in an attempt to dispense with the question, even after all members have addressed the question. It's my understanding the purpose of a second is to demonstrate that at least one other member wants to discuss the motion. And that once a motion has proceeded to discussion, no second is needed. Is this correct?

If so, how is the matter of no official second addressed in the minutes?

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In "small" board meetings (about a dozen or fewer members in attendance) seconds are not required, according to the small board rules of RONR, p. 470-471.

However, once debate has begun, the lack of a second is immaterial. p. 35-36

This is not to say the Chair might not try to maintain a little more order, especially in keeping the group from "leaping" into discussion. But the issue of the second is really more of a non-issue. The purpose of the second is to let the Chair know that at least two members feel the motion is worthy of the assembly's time, which does not seem to be in question here anyway.

As for mentioning in the minutes, don't worry. See p 454-456 for sample minutes to see what should be included.

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It's my understanding the purpose of a second is to demonstrate that at least one other member wants to discuss the motion. And that once a motion has proceeded to discussion, no second is needed. Is this correct?

Yes, but if this is a small board (about a dozen members or fewer), there is no requirement for a second to begin with.

If so, how is the matter of no official second addressed in the minutes?

It isn't - and it generally isn't addressed even if there is an "official" second.

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