Public Discussion / Audience of Citizens

[Guest Michael]

Does Robert's Rules require an audience participation section on the agenda of a general meeting?

If so, do the rules dictate when the audience participation section has to occur or can it be anywhere on the agenda?

[Josh Martin]

On 8/14/2023 at 11:24 PM, Guest Michael said:

Does Robert's Rules require an audience participation section on the agenda of a general meeting?

If so, do the rules dictate when the audience participation section has to occur or can it be anywhere on the agenda?

No, RONR does not have require an "audience participation section" and has no requirements for when such a section would occur, if it occurs at all. If any rules on this subject exist for this assembly, they would be found in the assembly's rules or applicable law. In the absence of such rules, it is at the discretion of the assembly when (or if) to have an "audience participation section."

[Gary Novosielski]

On 8/15/2023 at 12:24 AM, Guest Michael said:

Does Robert's Rules require an audience participation section on the agenda of a general meeting?

If so, do the rules dictate when the audience participation section has to occur or can it be anywhere on the agenda?

No. There is no such requirement in RONR.

But for public elected bodies such as Town Councils or School Boards, state regulations may have requirements like this.  If you think this might apply to your organization, contact its legal counsel for details.