Special rules for one session

[mjhmjh]

Suppose an assembly would like to adopt a package of special rules for only a single session (e.g. a special debate procedure applying to a number of controversial motions which are to come up). Clearly, the assembly could adopt these special rules by the usual process but include a proviso providing for their termination at the adjournment of the session. However, is there some rule in RONR allowing for the adoption of special rules by a lesser threshold when they are only to apply for a single session?

Edited November 20, 2019 at 05:30 PM by mjhmjh

[Josh Martin]

44 minutes ago, mjhmjh said:

Suppose an assembly would like to adopt a package of special rules for only a single session (e.g. a special debate procedure applying to a number of controversial motions which are to come up). Clearly, the assembly could adopt these special rules by the usual process but include a proviso providing for their termination at the adjournment of the session. However, is there some rule in RONR allowing for the adoption of special rules by a lesser threshold when they are only to apply for a single session?

Yes. Such rules require only a 2/3 vote (without notice) for their adoption. Such rules are discussed in RONR, 11th ed., pg. 618-624 in the context of a convention. In my view, however, their use is not limited to conventions - this is simply the type of assembly where they are most commonly used.

Additionally, RONR provides that the reason why the threshold for adopting special rules of order is so high is because they interfere with the freedom of each session. If a rule is adopted for only a single session, however, this rationale does not apply. See RONR, 11th ed., pgs. 87-88.

Edited November 20, 2019 at 06:04 PM by Josh Martin

[Rob Elsman]

I agree with Mr. Martin, in general.

A preliminary main motion can be adopted to apply the rules to the whole meeting; a part of the meeting; or one or more main motions at the meeting. Presumably, these rules will be in conflict with the parliamentary authority, so a two-thirds vote will be required for adoption. On the off-chance that these rules do not conflict with the parliamentary authority or other rules of the society, the rules can be adopted by majority vote.

In either case, these special rules will expire at the end of the meeting.