Definition of Quorum

[Guest Kim in WV]

In redoing bylaws I found that the amendment clause was ambiquous or at least it seems so in determining exactly what a quorum should be. Is there a standard measure of "quorum" if not specifically stated? To follow is the clause: ...These Bylaws may be amended at any meeting of the Membership by affirmative vote of the majority of the voiting Members present and voting, provided that a quorum is present,...." Thank you for your insight.

[Chris Harrison]

RONR p. 334 says:

[a] quorum in an assembly is the number of voting members who must be present in order that business can be legally transacted. The quorum refers to the number of such members present, not to the number actually voting on a particular question.

[David A Foulkes]

Is there a standard measure of "quorum" if not specifically stated?

Yes. It is a majority of the voting members of the group that is meeting (Board, or general membership, or committee).

[Gary Novosielski]

In redoing bylaws I found that the amendment clause was ambiquous or at least it seems so in determining exactly what a quorum should be. Is there a standard measure of "quorum" if not specifically stated? To follow is the clause: ...These Bylaws may be amended at any meeting of the Membership by affirmative vote of the majority of the voiting Members present and voting, provided that a quorum is present,...." Thank you for your insight.

It's not surprising, as the amendment clause has little to do with setting the quorum requirements. Is quorum mentioned anywhere else in the bylaws? If not, it is a majority of the total membership of the body which is meeting.