motions

[Guest Margaret Fae]

When a member f the boeard makes a motion to vote on a topc, does that member have an obligation to vote in any certain way on the topic?

[Josh Martin]

When a member f the boeard makes a motion to vote on a topc, does that member have an obligation to vote in any certain way on the topic?

No.

[Gary Novosielski]

The mover may not speak against the motion in debate, but is free to vote either way, or to abstain from voting.

[Guest Beverly]

It is my understanding that the fact that a motion has been made and seconded does not put it before the assembly for voting unless the chair alone can does that. Are there any provisions or instances where the Chair must recognize and follow through on a motion and second for voting, particularly when the majority of the assembly wants to address a particular item of business?

[Guest Sam]

It is my understanding that the fact that a motion has been made and seconded does not put it before the assembly for voting unless the chair alone can does that. Are there any provisions or instances where the Chair must recognize and follow through on a motion and second for voting, particularly when the majority of the assembly wants to address a particular item of business?

The chair is compelled to state the motion to the assembly after someone gained the floor, made a motion and it was seconded.

If he does not then you should raise a point or order.

[jstackpo]

Well, the chair is not really free to "block" consideration of a proper motion.

However, if, in his judgement, the motion is not "proper" - for good reason(s) - he should rule that it is out of order. In the absence of an appeal of the ruling of the chair, that will keep the motion from going forward.

But... if a majority still thinks it is proper to consider the motion, they, the majority, will after the appeal has been made, "not sustain the ruling of the chair" and the consideration will proceed.

The chairman can NOT block thing on his own -- only if the majority agrees, subsequently, that the chair was right in his ruling will the motion be stopped.

[tctheatc]

It is my understanding that the fact that a motion has been made and seconded does not put it before the assembly for voting unless the chair alone can does that.

It IS before the assembly at that point and what they do with it is up to them. The chair SERVES the assembly and facilitates the process; he does not rule like a dictator. When it's before the assembly (and the chair should state this as noted above) the assembly may take actions prior to voting (e.g. object to consideration, amending, referring, etc) as appropriate, but in most simple cases, there would be discussion and a vote.

Maybe you're referring to the chair "putting the question" to the assembly for a vote? (which simply refers to the chair announcing that debate is over and we're commencing the voting.)

[Dan Honemann]

It IS before the assembly at that point and what they do with it is up to them. The chair SERVES the assembly and facilitates the process; he does not rule like a dictator. When it's before the assembly (and the chair should state this as noted above) the assembly may take actions prior to voting (e.g. object to consideration, amending, referring, etc) as appropriate, but in most simple cases, there would be discussion and a vote.

Maybe you're referring to the chair "putting the question" to the assembly for a vote? (which simply refers to the chair announcing that debate is over and we're commencing the voting.)

My guess is that Beverly has this sentence from page 31 in mind: "Neither the making nor the seconding of a motion places it before the assembly; only the chair can do that, by the third step (stating the question)."

But as has been previously noted, the chair is obliged to state the question on the motion if the wording is clear and it is in order at the time. As you point out, "he does not rule like a dictator."

[tctheatc]

Point well taken. Thank you, Dan!

[Guest j j]

Does a Lay on the table motion require a second?

[Chris Harrison]

Does a Lay on the table motion require a second?

Yes, unless it is a Small Board with about a dozen members or less present. Also, in the future it is better to start your own thread rather than tacking it onto another person's thread.

[Gary Novosielski]

Does a Lay on the table motion require a second?

Yes, but note that this motion is rarely needed, and therefore seldom in order, in ordinary societies. But in the rare case where it is in order, it requires a second.

See this FAQ #12 and this one FAQ #13.