Chair motion

[Guest the almighty cellist]

Can the chair introduce a motion? When the chair reads a resolution before a motion, someone has to make a motion in favor of said resolution, right?

[Josh Martin]

On 3/27/2024 at 4:54 PM, Guest the almighty cellist said:

Can the chair introduce a motion?

The chair, if a member of the assembly, has the same rights as any other member. So ultimately the simple answer to this question is "yes." The more complicated answer follows below.

It depends upon the type of assembly that is meeting. In an assembly using the rules for committees and small boards (generally defined as a board with not more than about a dozen members present), the chair is as free to participate as any other member, including making motions.

On the other hand, in a larger assembly, the chair should not make motions, in order to maintain the appearance of impartiality. If the chair insists on making a motion, the chair should turn over the duties of presiding to the vice chair or some other member until the motion has been disposed of.

There is also the device of "assuming" a motion, in which the chair states the question on a motion without it being formally made and seconded. This is typically done when the purpose is moving along routine business, and not for the purpose of advancing a motion the chair personally supports.

On 3/27/2024 at 4:54 PM, Guest the almighty cellist said:

When the chair reads a resolution before a motion, someone has to make a motion in favor of said resolution, right?

Yes.