If an original Motion has been withdrawn, does the Second also have to be withdrawn?

[Guest LCNash13]

Quick question - and I can't seem to find a definitive answer...

If a Motion is made and Seconded, and that original Motion is then withdrawn....does the Second ALSO have to be withdrawn?

[Gary Novosielski]

Well, first it is important to understand that the right to withdraw a motion is not absolute:

Quote

4:19
Until the chair states the question, the maker has the right to modify his motion as he pleases or to withdraw it entirely. After the question has been stated by the chair, the motion becomes the property of the assembly, and then its maker can do neither of these things without the assembly’s consent (see 33:11–19); but while the motion is pending the assembly can change the wording of the motion by the process of amendment (12) before acting upon it.
     [emphasis in original text]

But, presuming that the maker still has the right to withdraw the motion or, if not, that the assembly grants leave to withdraw, then the motion is withdrawn, and the matter is disposed of.  No further permission is required.

Edited to add:
For more details on the procedure for requesting permission to withdraw or modify a motion, see RONR (12th ed.) 33:11-19.

Edited April 19, 2023 at 05:14 PM by Gary Novosielski
add further citation.