Parliamentary Practice for 4-H

Feb. 2003 • 5303

Parliamentary Procedure

Parliamentary Practice Why there is Parliamentary Problems for Montana 4-H Procedure Clubs by Nick Shrauger Welcome and congratulations! You’re getting ready to learn more about conducting organized meetings Do you remember a time in which you using the oldest format in democratic joined a conversation among several people? society—parliamentary procedure. In that group was an individual or two who The rules for parliamentary procedure seemed to do all of the talking. It was difficult, came about to ensure a consistent if not impossible, for you to make a statement, process for conducting deliberative state your ideas or participate in anyway. meetings. Consider what would happen if instead of This guide book of parliamentary joining a conversation, you were attending a practice problems is designed to help meeting at which some goal or objective was you learn how to handle specific mo- to be accomplished. How would you feel if you tions and procedures. The guide can were unable to state your view? Parliamentary also be of assistance in preparing for procedure makes it possible for you, or anyone Gavel Games competitions. else to be heard. Parliamentary procedure is an organized way in which the smallest minority Acknowledgements: (even just one person) can be heard, while pre- Many thanks to Roger E. Regnier, serving the right of the majority to prevail. former state leader, and John B. Han- Think of the difficulties of conducting busi- na, Extension 4-H Specialist, Kansas ness to arrive at a decision if parliamentary State University Extension, from which procedure is not used. And think of how short, much of this material was taken. productive and easy business meetings become This material was adapted, updat- when parliamentary procedure is used. It is im- ed and expanded by Kirk A. Astroth, portant for leaders and members alike to know Montana State University, Extension how to conduct business meetings. 4-H Specialist, and Nick Shrauger, Gal- What are the rules for Parliamentary Proce- latin County 4-H Volunteer. dure? One of the oldest and most popular set is Robert’s Rules of Order. It is the set of rules Layout and Design by Suzi Taylor, used by most legislative bodies. MSU Communications Services. Most of the time meetings are small groups and issues are not contentious. In these cases, ©2003, 2001. only a few simple rules are needed. Often con- sensus (another method of conducting meet- To find answers to specific ques- ings) can be used to arrive at a decision. But if tions, you can also visit the Robert’s a decision is to be made on a difficult issue, it Rules of Order web site at: www. becomes necessary to strictly follow Robert’s robertsrules.com and visit Rules. For this reason it is important that you www.parliamentarian.org understand and learn to use Robert’s Rules of www.parliamentaryprocedure.org Order.

1 Suggested Process for Using Parliamentary Practice Problems The following suggested outline would enable a club to complete all these problems over a two-year time span. The problems are listed in the approximate order in which they should be taken up by a club. You may want to spend more than one meeting on one of the problems to master it appropriately. New problems should not be taken up until preceding ones are thor- oughly mastered. First Year Second Year OCTOBER OCTOBER General parliamentary information...... 4 Election of officers, nominations, and voting.. 15

NOVEMBER NOVEMBER Constitution and bylaws...... 13 The previous question ...... 16

DECEMBER DECEMBER Order of business...... 6 To reconsider and have entered on the minutes...... 16 JANUARY Eight steps necessary to put a question before JANUARY the House...... 6 To withdraw a motion...... 18 Division of a question...... 7 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY To postpone indefinitely...... 18 Amending the main motion...... 8 MARCH MARCH Objection to the consideration of the question...... 19 Aids in disposing of motion—...... 8 Table, postpone to a set time ...... 9 APRIL APRIL To refer to a committee...... 20 Aids in disposing of motions continued; to MAY postpone indefinitely...... 9 To place in the hands of a committee...... Advanced problem 1...... 22

MAY JUNE Point of order Advanced problem 2 ...... 24 To adjourn ...... 10 JULY JUNE Advanced problem 3 ...... 25 To reconsider ...... 11 Appeal from decision of chair ...... 10 AUGUST Advanced problem 4...... 26 JULY To take from the table ...... 12 SEPTEMBER Review...... 28 AUGUST Resolutions Constitution and bylaws ...... 13

SEPTEMBER Nominations and elections...... 15 2 Where can I find out more on...? NOTE. For quick reference, see “Rules for Handling Motions” which appears on pp. 28-29.

Introduce business Prevent a motion from being voted on Steps necessary to put a question before the Withdraw a motion ...... 18 House ...... 6 Consider a motion a second time Conduct elections Take from table...... 12 Nominations, voting...... 15 Reconsider...... 11, 22, 26 Rescind ...... 21 Defer a matter or kill it Postpone indefinitely...... 18, 25 Prevent a vote from being final Table a motion...... 8, 22 Move a reconsideration and have motion entered on minutes...... 16 Defer action Postpone to a set time ...... 9 Object to a decision of the Chair or relieve Order of business ...... 6 the Chair from responsibility of a decision Table ...... 8, 22 Appeal from the decision of the Chair...... 10

Divide a complex question Ask a question or make a point of order Reconsider and enter on minutes...... 16 Question of privilege...... 10, 26 Division of a question...... 7 Annul some action Change or modify Rescind...... 21 Amend...... 8, 22, 25 Prepare a resolution Let a few attend to a matter Form...... 14 Refer to a committee...... 20 Dismiss a meeting Fix a time to attend to a matter Adjourn...... 10 Postpone to a set time...... 9

Stop debate and order an immediate vote Previous question...... 16 Contest Preamble...... 30

Suppress a question Gavel Games Object to consideration...... 19, 22 Scorecard...... 32-33 Postpone indefinitely...... 18, 25 Gavel Games Rules...... 34 Table...... 8, 22 Approved list of motions...... 35

Do something contrary to bylaws or rules Sample Written Tests...... 36-38 Suspend the rules ...... 12

3 Common Questions and Answers

TERMS Question. In parliamentary usage, what is the first The House—the club, thing to learn? group or organization. Answer. To rise and address the Chair to obtain the floor. The Chair—the presiding officer. Q. How do you address the Chair?

Pending—issues or A. Madam or Mr. President, or if not the president, Madam or questions before the Mr. Chairman or by his special title if s/he has one. House. Q. How does the Chair recognize a member and assign Majority—more than him/her the floor? half the votes cast.

Take precedence A. By calling his/her name. In a 4-H group this is usually the over—override and first name of the person. become the last pending question. Q. What is the advantage in obtaining the floor?

Quorum—the number A. The Chair is compelled to defend a member in his right to allowed to conduct busi- the floor and to state his motion or opinions. ness. Q. May a member assigned the floor be interrupted? Ex officio—meaning “by virtue of office.” Usually a A. Yes, but only if his procedure is out of order. non-voting member. Q. What is the correct form of a main motion? Before the House— being considered by the A. “I move that . . .” Do not say, “I move you . . .” or “I make a group. motion . . .” Session—in conventions, Q. What must follow most motions (all main motions)? the several meetings in which one continu- ous routine of business A. A second (another endorsement of the item of business). is transacted. In societies, the regular meeting Q. Should one rise to second a motion? together with its adjourned meetings, or a A. No. In large bodies, however, it may be best to rise and special meeting with its without waiting for recognition, say, “Mr. or Madam Presi- adjourned meetings. dent, I second the motion.”

4 Q. What is a quorum? Q. What is a main or principal motion?

A. The number of eligible voting members al- A. One that introduces business. lowed to conduct business. Q. Are all main motions debatable? Q. Should it be a majority or minority? A. Yes. A. A minority, usually. Q. What should the Chair say after stat- Q. May important business be transacted ing the motion? by a minority quorum? A. “Is there any discussion?” A. Yes, but it may not be best. Q. Can members be compelled to vote? Q. How long may a member of an ordi- nary society talk? A. Only in bodies having great power over the members, as in Congress. This is done by A. Not longer than 10 minutes nor more than ordering the yeas and nays. twice to a question and not the second time until all who wish have spoken once. Q. Should the Chair stand to state a question? Q. What should follow the second? A. Yes, she should stand also to put the ques- A. The Chair must state the motion. He should tion to vote. not say, “You have heard the motion.” The Chair may require any motion to be written. Q. When does the Chair take the vote?

Q. Why state the motion? A. When the organization or club, not some individuals, is ready for it. A. Until stated, it does not become the prop- erty of the House and may not be debated, Q. What is the best form in taking a vote amended, or otherwise acted upon. by acclamation?

Q. How does the Chair state a principal A. All in favor say aye; opposed, no. This is motion? called putting the question. Speak both aye and no distinctly. A. “It has been moved and seconded that the society (assembly, club, organization, or con- Q. May the Chair vote? vention) . . .” A. Yes, as shown under duties of the presiding officer.

5 Order of Business 6. Reports of standing and special 1. Call to order committees

2. Opening exercises—pledge, motto, etc. 7. Unfinished business • Motions postponed at the last meeting 3. Reading of minutes, corrections if needed, • Motions laid on the table at the last meet- approval of minutes ing

4. Communications not requiring action (let- 8. New business as introduced ters of appreciation, etc.) 9. Program 5. Reports of officers 10. Announcements and Notices

11. Adjournment

Parliamentary Practice Problems

As you work in your club on learn- 8. President states the result—those ing parliamentary procedure, you may for, and those against the motion. want to use these practice problems. Have a leader (teen or adult) who will explain the problem. The Leader and Demonstration her helpers should plan their demon- With the aid of three members, we stration before the meeting. will demonstrate the correct motion procedure. Eight Steps Necessary to Put a Question Before the House First Helper. (Stand.) Mr. President. Leader. The eight steps necessary President. John. to put a question before the House are: First Helper. I move that the Cotton- wood 4-H Club conduct a drive to 1. A member rises and addresses the increase our club membership. Chair. President. Is there a second to this mo- 2. The member is recognized by the tion? (Ask for a second when a motion Chair. is not promptly seconded.)

3. The member makes the motion. Second Helper. (Do not stand.) I second the motion. 4. Another member seconds the motion. President. The motion before the House is that the Cottonwood 4-H Club 5. President states the motion to the conduct a drive to increase our club group. membership. Is there any discussion?

6. President calls for discussion. First Helper. (Stand.) Mr. President.

7. President takes the vote. President. John.

6 First Helper. I believe it is necessary to items of business, connected by con- make a special effort to see the boys junctions, it may be best to consider and girls of this community and explain them separately as the club may wish the good things they will receive as to adopt only part of them. The re- 4-H Club members. quest for the division of the motion may be made by an individual, or it Third Helper. (Stand.) Mr. President. may be by motion. If an individual makes the request, she would say, “I President. Howard. call for a division of the motion.” Third Helper. We have enough members in our club. An increase in numbers of If the request is in the form of a members will bring in boys and girls motion: not especially interested and will make • it is not debatable more work for the leaders. • it may be amended • it requires a majority vote President. Is there any more discussion? • it may not be reconsidered. The motion is that the Cottonwood 4-H Club conduct a drive to increase President. The motion before the club is our club membership. All in favor say that the Lucky Leaf 4-H Club accept aye; all opposed, no. William Smith as a member and hold a picnic next Saturday afternoon, the Second Helper. (Stand.) Mr. President. boys to supply the food and the girls the transportation, and that the picnic President. Julie. be held at John’s at exactly 5:30 p. m.

Second Helper. I call for a division. First Helper. (Stand.) Mr. President.

Note: This refers to division of the President. Paul. house and is done when a member is not satisfied with the count when First Helper. I request a division of the question. the vote has been taken by voice or hand and wishes the vote to be taken President. The Secretary will divide the again. The President must take an- question into independent propositions other vote. for action.

President. (A division of the house having NOTE. The original motion to been called for, take a standing vote.) adopt now applies to each part. The motion is that the Cottonwood 4-H Club conduct a drive to increase Secretary. The motion before the House our club membership. All in favor, is that the Lucky Leaf 4-H Club accept stand. Be seated. All opposed, stand. William Smith as a member. Be seated. Fifteen in favor; twelve opposed. The Cottonwood 4-H Club will First Helper. I second the motion. conduct a drive to increase the membership. President. Is there any discussion?

Second Helper. (Stand.) Mr. President. Division of the Question Leader. The object of the divi- President. Jill. sion of the question is to avoid voting on too many independent questions at one time. If a motion when made consists of two or more independent 7 Second Helper. William is a great kid. First Helper. (Stand.) I want the club to He will do his best at everything, and have a new machine. A used one is not I think the club will profit greatly by reliable. having him as a member. President. Is there any more discussion? President. Is there any further discus- All in favor of the amendment, stand; sion? (Pause.) If not, all in favor of the opposed, stand. The amendment is car- motion to accept William Smith as a ried. The motion now before the club member, stand. Opposed, stand. The is that the Sunshine 4-H Club buy a vote is favorable and the club accepts NEW CD player. Is there any discus- William Smith as a member. sion? (Pause.) All in favor of the motion, stand; opposed, stand. The motion NOTE. The secretary then reads is carried. The Sunshine 4-H Club will the next part and each part is consid- buy a new CD player. ered as a distinct motion. The sepa- rate parts may be amended. See the Leader. (Discuss this procedure next problem for this procedure. fully.) An amendment may be stated as follows: I move to amend by—

• Inserting the word “_____” before Amending the Main Motion the word “_____” Leader. The object of amend- • Striking out the word “_____” ing the main motion is to change it • Striking out the word “_____” and and make it more satisfactory to the inserting “_____” group. • Substituting the motion “_____” for motion “_____” • It requires a second. • It is debatable, debate being con- If the amendment carries, the fined to the amendment. main motion becomes the motion as • It may be amended. amended. If lost, the main motion is • It requires a majority vote. It may be unaffected. reconsidered.

President. It has been moved and seconded that the Sunshine 4-H Club buy To Lay on the Table a used CD player. Is there any discus- Leader. The object of the mo- sion? tion “to lay on the table” is to lay aside temporarily the pending busi- Second Helper. (Stand.) Mr. President. ness. Making this motion allows the group to put aside a pending question President. Francis. temporarily when something else of immediate urgency has arisen. This Second Helper. I move to amend the motion is commonly misused in many motion by striking out the word “used” groups in place of the motion to Post- and inserting the word “new.” pone Indefinitely or to Postpone to a First Helper. I second the amendment. Certain Time. This motion violates the rights of the minority if it is used for President. It has been moved and sec- any other purpose that stated above. onded to amend the motion by striking This motion is “out of order” if the out the word “used” and inserting the intent is to kill or avoid dealing with a word “new.” Is there any discussion? question before the group. For these reasons:

8 • It is not debatable and requires a • It requires a second and is debat- second. able. • It may not be amended. • It cannot be amended. • It requires a majority vote. • It may be reconsidered. • It may not be reconsidered. • It is out of order when another has the floor. President. The motion before the club • It requires a majority vote. is that the Willing Workers 4-H Club buy a dog for use as a mascot. (After To postpone to a definite time, heated discussion by two or three however, can be made to put off ac- helpers, continue.) tion on a motion until a more conve- nient time. This motion can be moved First Helper. Mr. President. regardless of how much debate has already occurred. A question may be President. Helen. postponed either so that it may be considered at another time or be- First Helper. I move that the motion be laid on the table. cause debate has shown reasons for holding off a decision until later. Second Helper. I second the motion. • It requires a second and is debat- President. It has been moved and sec- able. onded that the motion be laid on the • It is amendable as to the time to table. (Take vote.) which the main motion is to be postponed. Leader. (Discuss this parliamentary • It may be reconsidered. problem fully and point out that a • It is out of order when another has question tabled and not taken from the floor. the table at the same or the follow- • It requires a majority vote. ing meeting is lost. Also explain that “tabling” should seldom or never be President. It has been moved and sec- used by a minority in an effort to onded that the Happy Hustlers 4-H defeat a proposition (refer to notes Club hold their annual picnic at Mr. above). Refer to the list of motions Smith’s home on June 8. Are there any that may not be tabled on page 8 remarks? and 9. ) First Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. To Postpone Indefinitely and President. John. Postpone to a Certain Time First Helper. Mr. Smith is sick, so I do Leader. The object of postpon- not think it advisable to hold a picnic ing indefinitely is to defer action on at his home on June 8; therefore, I a motion. Its adoption kills the main move to postpone the motion until our motion (for the duration of the ses- regular meeting next month. sion) and avoids a direct vote on the Second Helper. I second the motion. question. It is useful in disposing of a badly chosen main motion that can- President. The motion before the club is not be either adopted or expressly that we postpone the motion that the rejected without possible undesir- Happy Hustlers 4-H Club hold their able consequences. This motion takes annual picnic at Mr. Smith’s home on precedence over nothing except the June 8. main question and is the lowest-ranking subsidiary motion. 9 Note: This motion is debatable President. Please state your point. to a limited extent. When passed it becomes unfinished business for the First Helper. The motion to adjourn is next meeting. not debatable and this motion before the club must be voted upon immedi- President. (Take the vote.) ately.

Leader. (Point out that a ques- President. The point is well taken. It has tion may not be postponed to a time been moved and seconded that the beyond the next regular meeting. A Galata 4-H Club adjourn. All in favor, stand; opposed, stand. The Galata 4-H motion may not be taken up before Club is adjourned. the time to which it was postponed except by reconsideration, suspension of the rules, or general consent.) Appeal From the Decision of the Chair Point of Order, Adjournment Leader. By electing a presiding Leader. The purpose of raising a officer, a group delegates to him or point of order is to enforce the rules. her the authority and duty to make A person would make this motion to necessary rulings on questions of raise a question of propriety in how parliamentary procedure. But any two business is being conducted or if the members have the right to appeal rules are being violated. from his decision on such a question. If the Chair rules unfavorably on • It does not require a second. a point of order, an appeal may be • It is not debatable, except the Chair made from the decision of the Chair may seek the advice of the club. if at least two members (one who • It may not be amended. makes the motion, the other who • It requires a majority vote when seconds it) still feels that he is correct. submitted to the club. Without waiting to be recognized by • It may not be reconsidered. the Chairman, the member rises as soon as the decision is made, even First Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. though another member has the floor. President. Joanne. • It is debatable. First Helper. I move we adjourn. • It cannot be used on rulings about which there can be only one pos- Second Helper. I second the motion. sible decision. • It must be made at the time of the Third Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. ruling in question. • It must be seconded. President. Wilbur. • It cannot be amended. • It can be reconsidered. Third Helper. I cannot see the reason for adjournment at this time. Our First Helper. Mr. President, I appeal business is only half finished. from the decision of the Chair. (The appeal must be seconded.) First Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. Second Helper. I second the appeal. President. John. President. (State clearly the question at First Helper. I rise to a point of order. issue and reasons for the decision if

10 necessary.) The question is, “Shall the First Helper. (Discuss the motion.) decision of the Chair be upheld as the judgment of this club?” Those in favor President. The motion before the club say aye; those opposed, no. The ayes is that the Pleasant Valley 4-H Club have it and the decision of the Chair charge each member dues of $5.00 for is upheld, or, the nays have it and the this year. All in favor, stand; opposed, decision of the Chair is reversed. stand. Count the vote. Motion carried.

Second Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President.

Motion to Reconsider President. Bobbi. Leader. This motion is a uniquely American motion and enables a ma- Second Helper. I move to reconsider the jority in a group—within a limited time vote taken on the last motion. and without notice—to bring back for further consideration a motion that President. Did you cast your vote on the has already been voted upon. The side receiving the most votes? goal of a motion to reconsider is to bring an item of business back before Second Helper. I did. the group for discussion and another vote. The purpose of reconsidering a President. Since you voted on the pre- vote is to permit correction of hasty, vailing side, it is proper for you to make the motion. The motion before ill-advised, or erroneous action, or to the House is to reconsider the mo- take into account added information tion that the Pleasant Valley 4-H Club or a changed situation that has de- charge each member dues of $5.00 for veloped since the original vote on the the club year. Do I hear a second? motion. Third Helper. I second the motion. • It requires a second. • It is debatable if the motion to be President. The motion is to reconsider reconsidered is debatable. the motion that the Pleasant Valley • It may not be amended. 4-H Club charge each member dues of • It requires a majority vote. $5.00 for the club year. Is there any • It must be introduced by a member discussion? who voted on the winning side. • It may not be reconsidered. Second Helper. (Discuss reasons for wishing to reconsider.) First Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. NOTE: A simple majority is required President. Tom. to reconsider a motion, regardless of the vote necessary to adopt the First Helper. I move that the Pleasant motion reconsidered. Valley 4-H Club charge each member dues of $5.00 for this year. President. All in favor of reconsidering the vote on the motion say aye; those Second Helper. I second the motion. opposed, no. The motion to reconsider is carried; therefore the motion that President. It has been moved and sec- each member pay dues of $5.00 this onded that the Pleasant Valley 4-H year is open for discussion. Will the Club charge each member dues of Secretary please read the motion. $5.00 for this year. Is there any discussion?

11 To Take From the Table from the table carries, the original Leader. To take from the table is motion comes back to the club in to bring the question before the club the form in which it was tabled. The again. original motion may be debated upon and then put before the House in the • It requires a second. It is not debat- regular motion procedure and either able. passed or voted down. • It requires a majority vote. • It cannot be amended. • It cannot be reconsidered. To Suspend the Rules Leader. The object of suspend- First Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. ing rules is to allow the club to take President. Cathy. action that is prohibited by the rules. The rules may be suspended by First Helper. I move to take from the general consent, but if one member table the motion that the Full-of-Fun objects, a motion must be made and 4-H Club buy a dog for a mascot. passed by a two-thirds vote.

Second Helper. I second the motion. • A motion to suspend the rules requires a second. President. The motion before the club is • It is not debatable. that we take from the table the mo- • It may not be amended. tion that the Full-of-Fun 4-H Club buy • It requires a two-thirds vote. a dog for a mascot. All in favor, stand; • It may not be reconsidered. opposed, stand. In favor, 20; opposed, 10. Since the motion to take from the The rules are suspended for a table is carried, the motion before the single purpose, as the motion states, club now is that the Full-of-Fun 4-H and no other business may be trans- Club buy a dog for a mascot. Is there acted under the one suspension. any discussion? After the motion to suspend the rules has carried, the member who First Helper. (Stand.) Mr. President. made the motion has the first right President. John. to the floor to make a motion or to discuss it. John. (Discuss the motion.) The following rules may be suspended: President. Is there any discussion? (Pause.) The motion before the club • To adopt a question without debate. is that the Full-of-Fun 4-H Club buy a • To take a question from the table dog for a mascot. All in favor, stand; when the motion to do so is not in opposed, stand. In favor, 5; opposed, order (such as when someone has 25. The motion is defeated. the floor). • To take up a question before the Leader. If the motion to take from time to which it has been post- the table is defeated, it can be put poned. before the same meeting after some • To make an order of the day a “spe- other business has been transacted. cial order,” which means that it is A question laid on the table must be made with the stipulation that any rules interfering with its consider- taken up and disposed of during the ation at a specific time will be sus- next regular meeting; otherwise the pended. motion dies. If the motion to take

12 • To take action contrary to standing notice and a two-thirds vote for its rules (such as when the meetings amendment can be suspended by are held, time at which meetings less than a two-thirds vote. will begin). Standing rules are not bylaws but adopted individually 4. No rule can be suspended when and relate to the administration of a the negative vote is as large as the group. minority protected by the rule.

A motion to initiate Tom Brown was laid on the table until the next Quorum regular meeting. I wish to take this After the secretary calls the roll, motion off the table before the the president is notified whether or scheduled time. not a quorum is present. If a quorum is not present, the meeting is ad- John. (Stand.) Mr. President. journed or prevented from transact- ing official business. President. John. If during an official meeting John. I move that the rules be suspend- enough people leave so that a quo- ed in order that the motion that the rum is not present, official business club initiateTom Brown be voted on can be transacted. The only way to immediately. prevent official business from being transacted under the above condi- Pete. I second the motion. tions is to move for a new roll call. If, after the new roll call, it is found there President. The motion before the club is not a quorum, the meeting is ad- is to suspend the rules in order that journed. the motion to initiate Tom Brown be voted on immediately. All in favor, stand; opposed, stand. Two thirds of those present having voted in favor of Constitution and Bylaws the motion, it is carried. Now the mo- The Constitution usually contains tion before the club is to initiate Tom six articles, divided into sections. It Brown. All in favor say aye; opposed, sets forth the name and purpose of no. the organization and determines the membership. It establishes the offices, Leader. (Discuss the purpose and use the method of election, the time of of this procedure.) The following meeting, and the way to amend the items cannot be suspended: Constitution. See the sample Constitution in the 1. The Constitution can never be suspended, nor can the Bylaws, unless Montana 4-H Club Secretary’s Record suspension of the latter is spe- Book (2FM045S). Study it for points cifically provided for in one of the mentioned above. Bylaws. Permanent changes require previous notice to members and a two- 2. No rule protecting absentees can be thirds vote. Read and submit any suspended, nor can a rule requiring amendment desired at the regular that a vote be taken by ballot be business meeting preceding the one suspended in order to hasten mat- at which it will be voted on. ters. The Bylaws contain details of organization, such as points relating to 3. Nothing that requires previous membership (honorary and associate),

13 quorum, time of meeting, nature of preamble. program, list of officers, duties of The preamble should never con- officers, committees, dues, if any, and tain a period but each paragraph amendments. An example of club should close with a comma or semi- bylaws is also found in the Montana colon, followed by “and,” except the 4-H Club Secretary’s Record Book last paragraph which should close (2FM045S). with the word “therefore’’ or “therefore be it resolved. . .” Resolutions Every resolution should be in writ- Sample Resolution ing. A resolution is always a main mo- Whereas, we consider the 4-H Club the tion. A resolution always begins with best organization for all boys and girls; the word “Resolved.” When a member and wishes to present a resolution after obtaining the floor, he says, “I move Whereas, the membership is not large the adoption of the following resolu- enough in this community; therefore tion.” Resolved: That it is the opinion of this Reasons for the resolution, if club that ample opportunity be given needed, are usually stated in a pre- for all boys and girls, as well as the amble. Each clause of the preamble parents, in this community to learn constitutes a paragraph beginning about opportunities in the 4-H Club. with “Whereas.” The preamble is always amended last, as changes in the resolution may require changes in the

14 Second Year’s Program

The vote is taken on nominees in Election of Officers— the order in which they were nomi- Nominations—Voting nated. Nominations may be made from the floor by members, by a nominating committee, or by ballot. A motion Nominations—Voting provides the method. Constitutions The nominations are announced or Bylaws usually specify conditions by the presiding officer and usually relating to nominations. the vote is taken by ballot. If nominations have been made by The method of voting may be the nominating committee, the presid- done according to the wishes of the ing officer should ask if there are any organization unless the Bylaws specify other nominations before proceeding the method to be followed. to an election. If there is no response, The presiding officer appoints the he declares the nominations closed. In tellers to collect the ballots and al- large clubs, it is customary to make a ways asks if all members have voted motion to close nominations, but until before she directs the count to be a reasonable time has been given, this made. motion is not in order. Typically, the Even if there is only one nominee president asks for nominations three for each office and none is added times before declaring nominations from the floor, the vote is taken on closed. each office. It is not in order to take a single vote on the group at one time. • The motion to close nominations The presiding officer always has requires a second. the privilege to vote by ballot and • it cannot be debated should vote at the same time as other • it requires a two thirds vote as it members. In case of a tie when the deprives members of one of their vote is taken by show of hands or rights. standing vote, she may vote to break • If it is desired to reopen nomina- the tie. In no case is he allowed to tions, it may be done by a majority vote twice—first to make a tie and vote. This motion is undebatable. then to break it. While it is the duty for every Nominations need not be seconded member to vote, a member cannot be Officers may be elected one at a compelled to do so unless the Bylaws time or all at one time. If the Bylaws so state. prescribe the method, it must be fol- In Congress where the public wish- lowed. Electing officers all at one time es to know how the members voted, saves time, but has a serious objection the vote is taken by roll call. The when there is more than one nominee presiding officer says: “As many as are for each office; those not elected for in favor of the adoption of this reso- one office cannot be nominated for lution will, as their names are called, any other. In small groups it is usually answer yes; opposed, answer no.” better to elect one officer at a time.

15 Parliamentary Practice Problems

The Previous Question no reason we need to sacrifice quality. I think Debbie has the wrong viewpoint Leader. To stop debate and order on this issue. an immediate vote on a question, correct procedure is to say, “I move the Second Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. previous question.” This motion, when seconded and carried by a two-thirds President. Everett. vote, forces an immediate vote. Second Helper. I move the previous • It requires a second. question. • It is not debatable. • It may not be amended. First Helper. I second the motion. • It requires a two-thirds vote to carry. President. The previous question has • It may be reconsidered. been moved and seconded on the motion that the Silver Creek 4-H Club Many club members are under increase its membership to 100 for the impression that a motion can be the next year. All in favor of ordering brought to vote when someone in the the previous question on the stated group calls “Question.” Calling “Ques- motion, stand; opposed, stand. As tion” does not bring the motion to two-thirds have voted in favor of the vote nor does it stop discussion. previous question. It is carried.

First Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. The motion before the club is that the Silver Creek 4-H Club increase its President. Sam. membership to 100 for the next year. All in favor, rise; opposed, rise. The First Helper. I move that the Silver motion is carried. Creek 4-H Club increase its membership to 100 for the next year. Note: In this motion only the usual majority vote is required. Second Helper. I second the motion. Leader. (Impress the group with Third Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. the importance of the motion and the need of cooperation to bring about President. Debbie. the desired results.)

Third Helper. I am not in favor of making a wholesale membership drive. Quality is more important than quantity. It is a To Reconsider and Have good idea to increase our membership, Entered on the Minutes and I think we can, but I do not like Leader. The procedure to re- the idea of a set number. consider and have entered on the minutes is used when it is desired to First Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. prevent the action on the main mo- President. Sam. tion from becoming final until another meeting or another day. It is to pre- First Helper. We will never get any place vent a temporary and unrepresenta- unless goals are set. Just because a tive majority from carrying out an definite number has been set, there is action that it is believed the majority 16 will not approve. This is needed in such as a picnic should not be decided large societies with frequent meetings this evening. and small quorums when the atten- dance in many cases does not exceed First Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. 10% of the membership. As the motion to reconsider and have entered President. Walter. on the minutes may be made only by First Helper. If the other members one who voted on the winning side, a do not attend meetings they cannot member desiring to make the motion expect to have much to say about the should vote with the majority even business of the club. I want a picnic though opposed to its action, or if regardless of what the absent mem- he has already voted with the losing bers think about it. side, he may, before the result is announced, change his vote. Fourth Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. Having the motion placed on the minutes gives those who are opposed President. Bill. to the motion a chance to get a large number of their supporters in atten- Fourth Helper. It is an injustice to the dance at the next meeting. It requires absent members. a majority vote even when reconsid- President. Is there any more discussion? ering a motion that required a two- Those in favor of the motion, stand; thirds vote. opposed, stand. Motion carried.

First Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. Fourth Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President.

President. Walter. President. Bill. First Helper. I move that the Busy Bees Fourth Helper. I move to reconsider 4-H Club hold a picnic May 3. the motion and have it entered on the minutes. Second Helper. I second the motion. Third Helper. I second the motion. President. It has been moved and seconded that the Busy Bees 4-H Club First Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. hold a picnic May 3. Is there any discussion? President. Walter. Third Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. First Helper. I rise to a point of order. President. Eugene. President. State your point. Third Helper. It is too early to have pic- First Helper. Did Bill cast his vote on the nics. The weather at that time is usu- losing side? ally unfavorable and will prevent having a real picnic program. Fourth Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. Second Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. President. Bill. President. Bill. Fourth Helper. I cast my vote on the winning side. Fourth Helper. There is just a small number present, and I feel an activity

17 President. Bill is in order. The question is First Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. to reconsider and have entered on the minutes the motion that the Busy Bees President. Mary. 4-H Club hold a picnic May 3. Is there any discussion? All in favor, stand; First Helper. I wish to withdraw my mo- opposed, stand. Motion carried. The tion. question will be entered on the minutes to be reconsidered at the next meet- Third Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. ing. President. Harry. Leader. (Discuss the importance of the motion and what future action Third Helper. I object. should be taken.) President. There is an objection to withdrawing the motion. It shall be put to the vote of the club. All in favor of To Withdraw a Motion granting the privilege of withdrawing Leader. The object of withdrawing the motion, stand; opposed, stand. The a motion is to prevent the vote and majority is in favor and the privilege is keep the motion off the records. granted.

• It does not require a second. Leader. (Make it clear that a mo- • It is not debatable and cannot be tion and all points connected with it amended. may be withdrawn any time before • It requires a majority vote. voting on the question is begun.)

Before a motion has been stated by the Chair, its maker may withdraw To Postpone Indefinitely or change it as suggested. If changed, Leader. The object of postponing the second may be withdrawn. The a motion indefinitely is to reject the President can offer help to younger main motion when the strength of the members to improve their motions vote for it is uncertain, and the op- before restating the motion. posing side wishes to find this out. It After a motion has been stated, also gives a member another chance it belongs to the assembly. It may to talk after he has exhausted his then be withdrawn or changed only if right to debate. there is no objection or if the assembly, by a majority vote, permits it. Any • It requires a second. motion may be withdrawn. • It requires a majority vote.

First Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. If the motion to postpone is lost, it may not be renewed or reconsidered, President. Mary. and the main motion comes back to First Helper. I move that the Jolly Jays its original form and can be amended 4-H Club charge dues of $3.00 for the and have all other privileges of a main coming year. motion. If the postponement is carried, the main motion is rejected for Second Helper. I second the motion. the present meeting unless the vote is reconsidered during the present or President. It has been moved and sec- next business session. onded that the Jolly Jays 4-H Club charge dues of $3.00 for the coming year. 18 First Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. postponed, but I think others here feel the same way about it but are President. Harold. cautious about discussing it.

First Helper. I move that the Lucky Leaf President. All in favor of postponing 4-H Club hold a skating party Friday indefinitely the motion that the club evening. hold a skating party, stand; opposed, stand. Four in favor; six opposed Second Helper. I second the motion. The motion to postpone indefinitely is Third Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. defeated. The motion before the club is that we hold a skating party Friday President. Vernon. evening. Is there any discussion?

Third Helper. I believe it is a good idea Second Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. to hold a skating party. President. Tom. First Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. Second Helper. I believe that arrange- President. Harold. ments can be made whereby every member can be present. First Helper. A social time once in a while is necessary for the life of the club, President. All in favor, stand; opposed, so I hope that everyone will vote for stand. The motion is carried. We will it. hold the skating party.

Fourth Helper. (Rise.) I am not in favor Leader. (Discuss the motion and of the skating party Friday evening its importance to the club.) because I will be unable to attend; therefore, Mr. President, I move to postpone the question indefinitely. Objection to the Fifth Helper. I second the motion. Consideration of the President. The motion before the club Question is to postpone indefinitely the motion Leader. The purpose of an objec- that the club hold a skating party Fri- tion to the consideration of the ques- day evening. Is there any discussion? tion is to avoid questions unprofitable and irrelevant. First Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. • It does not require a second. It is President. Harold. not debatable. • It may not be amended. First Helper. I cannot understand why • It requires a two-thirds negative one member should be selfish enough vote. It may be reconsidered. to want the party postponed because he cannot be there. First Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President.

Fourth Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. President. Tom.

President. John. First Helper. I move that the Happy Hustlers 4-H Club invite the Busy Bee Fourth Helper. I do not wish it under- 4-H Club to combine into one club for stood that it is from a selfish view- the next year. point that I wish to have the party 19 Second Helper. I second the motion. To Refer to a Committee Leader. The object of referring to Third Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. a committee is to commit or recom- President. James. mend to a standing or special committee a question that may be more Third Helper. I object to the consider- carefully investigated and put into ation of the motion. better shape for the group to consider than can be done in the group First Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. itself.

President. Tom. First Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President.

First Helper. I rise to a point of order. President. Bob.

President. State your point. First Helper. I move that the Willing Workers 4-H Club make arrangements First Helper. There is a motion before with the Grange to use the Grange Hall the House. as a meeting place.

President. Tom, your point is not well Second Helper. I second the motion. taken. The objection to the consideration is in order. This objection may be President. It has been moved and sec- raised before there is any debate on onded that the Willing Workers 4-H the main motion and may be made when Club make arrangements with the another has the floor. It cannot be de- Grange to use the Grange Hall as a bated or amended and must be put to a meeting place. Is there any discussion? vote immediately. The consideration of the question has been objected to. All Third Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. in favor of considering the question, stand; opposed, stand. President. Helen.

There being two-thirds opposed, the Third Helper. I believe it is impossible to main motion will not be considered. come to a conclusion on this important motion without further investigation. NOTE. If the motion had passed, There may be other places available the President would announce, “There for meetings. In order that the club being less than two-thirds opposed, may get all the information necessary, the objection is not sustained and the I move that the motion be referred to question is before the club.” a committee. . President. To what committee shall the Leader. (Explain that it was decid- motion be referred? ed by a two-thirds negative vote not to consider the main motion; there- Third Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President. fore, the whole matter is dismissed for the present session. The same mo- President. Helen. tion may be introduced at any other meeting. The object of this motion Third Helper. I wish to add to my motion is to avoid any item of business that the words “of three to be appointed by may be unprofitable or cause dissen- the President.” sion in the club. This objection cannot be applied to amendments, bylaws, or President. It has been moved and sec- reports of committees.) onded that the motion before the club

20 be referred to a committee of three ship is necessary. If notice is given, a appointed by the President. regular majority vote is required.

Second Helper. I second the motion. First Helper. (Rise.) Mr. President.

President. Is there any discussion? All in President. John. favor, stand; opposed, stand. Motion carried. First Helper. I move to rescind the motion passed at our last meeting in Note: By securing the addition to December by which this organization the motion before stating the motion, went on record as being opposed to the President saved extra voting or help furnish a community meeting hall. amendments to this motion. . Second Helper. I second the motion. Leader. (Discuss the importance of this motion and its relationship to President. It has been moved and seconded that the club rescind the motion the club.) passed at our meeting in December by which this organization went on record as being opposed to help fur- To Rescind a Motion nish a community meeting hall. Will Leader. The purpose of the mo- the Secretary please read the motion tion to rescind or repeal is not to referred to? reconsider the vote upon a motion, but to render ineffective the vote for- Secretary. (Find and read the motion.) merly taken on it. President. Is there any discussion? A motion previously made and voted on may be reconsidered the First Helper. I think that people general- day it was voted on or the following ly are favorable to a community meet- meeting day. After that, the motion ing place and that we should be, too. to rescind is in order, but a motion to reconsider is out of order. Second Helper. I believe that since this The motion to rescind may be ap- has become a community project we plied to the vote on all main motions, should help, too. questions of privileges and appeals. A motion to rescind is not in order if, as President. If there is no further dis- a result of a vote, something has been cussion, all in favor of the motion to done which cannot be undone, or a rescind this motion, stand; opposed, resignation has been acted upon, or stand. Two-thirds of the members present favor rescinding this motion, some member has been elected to or so the motion is rescinded and should expelled from membership or office, be so marked by the Secretary. and has been notified of the fact. If a motion is to be rescinded, notice must be given at a preceding meeting or in the call for the meeting; or if such notice has not been given, a two-thirds vote of those voting or a majority vote of the entire member-

21 Advanced Parliamentary Practice Problems

Problem 1 Pete. (Rise.) Mr. President, I rise to a parliamentary inquiry. This problem includes practice in the use of the previous question on President. State the inquiry. pending amendments, objection to reconsideration of a question, and Pete. Is it not practically impossible to tabling a motion. speak on the amendment without also The motion, “I move the previous including the original motion? question,” cuts off all debate on both amendments and motion. If a member President. While amendments are pend- wishes to order or force a vote on ing, the debate can relate only to the amendment only, he says, “I move the amendment, or it may include the the previous question on the amend- amendment and the motion only so ment.” The vote is taken on the previ- far as a discussion of the amendment ous question motion. If it carries, the involves a discussion of the amendment and the motion. vote is then taken, first on the amendment to the amendment, if there is Grace. I move the previous question on one, then on the amendment. This the amendments. leaves the motion in the same position it was before the previous ques- Helen. I second the motion. tion was ordered. President. The previous question has Helen. (Rise.) Mr. President. been moved and seconded. This requires a two-thirds vote. All in favor President. Helen. of the previous question, stand; opposed, stand. (Carry this problem Helen. I move that all 4-H Club girls wear through.) uniform dresses. NOTE: Vote on an amendment to Bill. I second the motion. the amendment, then the amendment. If the amendment to the amendment NOTE: Amend this motion by carries, but the amendment does not, inserting “green” after uniform; the both amendments are lost. amendment to the amendment by Since every member has a right to inserting “wool” after green. introduce subjects, it has been provided by parliamentary law that when Grace. (Rise.) Mr. President. a question unnecessary or improper comes, a member may object to its President. Grace. consideration. This applies only to motions introducing a new subject. Grace. I am not in favor of uniform Objection must be made after the dresses for school. question has been stated by the Chair, President. The member is out of order. but before debate, amendment, or Remarks should be on the amendment another motion is introduced. Objec- to the amendment limiting the discus- tion does not require seconding, can- sion on the material to be used. not be debated or amended, and cuts off debate on the question objected to until settled. It requires a two-thirds 22 vote to carry the objection. John. (Rise.) Mr. President. If, however, the question objected to is not seconded, there is no need President. John. of voting on the objection, for the “motion is lost for want of a second.” John. I move the amendment be laid on Sometimes it is desirable to put a the table. question aside to be voted on later. Pete. I second the motion. To do this a member can “move to lay the question on the table,” and it re- President. It is moved and seconded that mains there until taken from the table. the amendment be laid on the table. The motion to lay on the table applies to nearly all parliamentary ques- John. (Rise.) Mr. President. tions. The following questions cannot be laid on the table: President. John.

• To adjourn John. I think the amendment should be • To fix the time at which to adjourn voted on. • To lay on the table • Questions as to priority of business President. John is out of order. The • To take from the table question cannot now be debated as the motion to “lay on the table” is before To lay on the table cannot be the club. amended or debated and requires just a majority vote. When the motion John. (Rise.) Mr. President. carries, it cannot be reconsidered, but President. John. may be taken from the table. When the motion is lost, it may be reconsid- John. I move to amend the motion to lay ered. on the table by adding the words “until When an amendment is tabled, the next week.” original question is tabled too. President. John is out of order. A motion John. (Rise.) Mr. President. to lay on the table cannot be amended.

President. John. NOTE. The club should vote on the question to lay on the table. If it John. I move that all nations disarm as is passed, no further discussion is in the only means of permanent peace. order. Helen. (Rise.) Mr. President. Pete. (Rise.) Mr. President. President. Helen. President. Pete. Helen. I move to amend the motion by striking out the word “disarm” and Pete. I move to adjourn. inserting “form a World Court.” John. (Rise.) Mr. President. Bill. I second the motion. John. I move we lay the motion to ad- President. (State the question.) journ on the table. President. The motion to adjourn cannot be laid on the table. (Take vote on adjournment. )

23 Problem 2 carried, cannot be changed during In this problem a number of con- the same session. ventional points such as addressing When a group wishes to change or the Chair and being recognized will reverse any action previously taken not be recorded; however, in giving on an amendment, the usual course is the problem these steps must not be to reconsider the amendment. This is omitted. It is thought by this time the in order only when the motion to be club members are well informed in amended is before the house. the rudiments of parliamentary pro- Amendments of an original mo- cedure. tion are called primary or first-degree Practice is provided in doubting a amendments. vote, reconsideration of an amend- Amendments to amendments are ment, and adjournment. called secondary amendments. Every If any member is not satisfied with amendment of the first degree can be the results of a vote, he may at once amended. rise and say, “Mr. President, I call for a In order for the amendment to be division,” or “I call for a standing vote.” reconsidered after it is voted on, the This is done when the voting by ac- original motion must be reconsidered. clamation seems close and a member doubts the accuracy of the decision. EXAMPLE. Use the previous mo- A standing vote can be counted ex- tion that final examinations be abol- actly and is usually more deliberate. ished from schools. An amendment The vote should be announced by the was suggested and defeated that Chair, but counted by the secretary finals be abolished from state high who reports to the President. schools.

John. (Starts to discuss subject. ) EXAMPLE: A vote has just been taken on a motion to abolish final President. John is out of order. The mo- examinations from schools. tion has been voted on and therefore cannot be debated. John. Mr. President, I call for a division. Pete. I move to amend the motion by President. A division has been called for. inserting the word “high” before the The motion is that finals, etc. word “schools” in the original motion.

John. Mr. President, I believe finals are… President. The member is out of order. A motion that has carried cannot be President. The member is out of order. amended unless reconsidered. No debate can interfere with the veri- fication of a vote. All in favor of the John. I move to reconsider the amend- motion, stand; all opposed, stand. ment.

NOTE. If all members have not President. This motion is out of order. voted, a member who voted may call We cannot reconsider an amendment for a full standing vote. Then all mem- until the original motion is reconsid- bers are required to vote one way or ered. another. An amendment voted on and lost Pete. I move we reconsider the original cannot be renewed during the same motion. session. John. I second the motion. The amendment, voted on and

24 President. (Put motion to reconsider to passed, this main motion (unless re- vote.) Motion carried. The secretary considered) is put aside for the entire will read the original motion. Is there session. If lost, the motion is just as it any discussion? was. EXAMPLE. It has been moved that John. I move we insert the word “high” in the members of the club shall wear the phrase “from schools”. shorts on all hikes or outdoor activities. President. This motion is out of order. An amendment lost cannot be renewed during the same session. John. I move the motion be postponed indefinitely. Helen. I move to reconsider the amend- Helen. I second the motion. ment. President. Are you ready for the ques- NOTE. This is in order and discus- tion? sion may proceed. Pete. I move we amend the motion by A motion to adjourn takes prece- striking out the words “postponed dence over all other parliamentary indefinitely” and inserting “postponed questions, but is out of order: until two o’clock tomorrow.” • While another member has the floor. President. The motion is out of order as • When a privileged motion to fix the a motion to “postpone indefinitely” can- time to which to adjourn is pending. not be amended. • While a motion to reconsider is being made, to be entered on the President. (Allow discussion but watch minutes for future action. for a “point of order.”) • While verifying a vote. • While the Chair is stating a question. John. I move the previous question. • After the motion to adjourn has been lost. It cannot be renewed President. The previous question has until after some business or debate been moved and seconded. This re- has been conducted. quires a two-thirds vote. All in favor Before moving to adjourn, a mem- of ordering the previous question on ber must have recognition from the the motion to postpone indefinitely, Chair. The motion must be seconded. stand; all opposed, stand. It cannot be amended or debated. Helen. I rise to ask a question.

Problem 3 President. State your question. This problem includes practice in indefinite postponement and the Helen. As the previous question was not previous question applied to a motion limited by the mover to the motion to and its amendments. To postpone in- postpone, does it not apply to the mo- definitely is in order only when a prin- tion also? cipal motion or a question of privilege is before the assembly. The motion is President. If the previous question is debatable and opens the original or ordered while the motion to “postpone indefinitely” is before the assembly, it main motion to debate. To postpone applies only to that motion. indefinitely cannot be amended. This motion can be reconsidered. If

25 EXAMPLE. Assume that the mo- (3) The original motion. tion to postpone is lost, and the question is again before the assembly. When a member wishes to get a motion with its amendment and John. I move to amend the motion by amendment to an amendment out inserting the words “if the weather is of the way without further debate or bad” after outdoor activities. amendment, he may do so by moving the previous question unlimited. This Pete. Second the motion. forces immediate vote on—

President. (Repeat the motion to amend.) (1) The amendment to the amendment. Are you ready for the question? (2) The amendment or the amend- Grace. I move the amendment be post- ment as amended. poned indefinitely. (3) The original motion or the original President. The motion is out of order. motion as amended. An amendment cannot be postponed. Every amendment may be amended. A previous question cannot be moved in such a form as to pass over Amendments of an original mo- the amendments and cause an imme- tion are called primary or first-degree diate vote on the motion. The amend- amendments. ment to the amendment must be Amendments to amendments are voted on first. called secondary amendments. Every amendment of the first degree can be amended. Problem 4 While an amendment to an This problem includes practice amendment is before the House, in the reconsideration of a motion, discussion must be confined to it; but amending by striking out and insert- may include the amendment and the ing, and point of order. main motion, so far as a discussion of A motion already voted on cannot the amendment involves a discussion be amended, discussed, etc., unless of the amendment and the motion. again brought before the House. The If a motion is made and recorded only way to do this is to reconsider. to amend an amendment, the vote When voting is by acclamation, a should be put in the following order: motion to reconsider must be made by a member who voted on the win- (1) The amendment to the amendment. ning side. Reconsideration is debatable if the original motion is debat- (2) The amendment as amended. able, otherwise not. To reconsider requires a majority vote only. (3) The motion as amended. When a motion to reconsider is carried, the question is brought before When the motion to amend the the House in the same position it was amendment is lost, the vote should be before it was first voted on. in the following order: The motion to reconsider sus- pends all action regarding the original (1) The amendment to the amendment motion until the motion to reconsider (lost). is disposed of. (2) The amendment as originally stated (lost). 26 EXAMPLE. The following motion question is now before the House that has been passed by the group: “That cigarettes should not be sold to mi- cigarettes should not be sold to nors. It is open to debate, amendment, minors.” or vote. Helen. I move to amend the motion by striking out the words “to minors.” A third form of amendment is striking out a certain word or words, President. The Chair rules the motion and inserting others in the exact place out of order. The motion cannot be where the first were struck out. amended unless reconsidered. To “strike out and insert” is one motion and must be debated, amend- John. I move to reconsider the vote. ed, or voted on as such. To strike out and insert cannot be divided, and Grace. I rise to a parliamentary inquiry. words struck out must be consecutive words. Words inserted also must be President. State the question. consecutive. Grace. May a person who voted in the EXAMPLE. A motion is made that minority move to reconsider? immigration should be prohibited.

President. No. Will John please state Jim. I move to amend by striking out the which side he voted on? word “prohibited” and inserting “regu- lated by a national board.” John. I voted on the negative. It should be possible to carry out President. Then the motion is out of order. the drill on this or any other question in the same manner as in previous Bill. I voted in the affirmative, but since lessons. Try to get as many examples there is dissatisfaction, I move to of points brought out in former les- reconsider the motion. sons as possible. A point of order is rather an inter- Grace. I second the motion. esting feature of parliamentary law. It is used to prevent or to rectify a President. The motion to reconsider has been moved and seconded. Is there violation of the rules. any discussion? A point of order can be raised at any time when business is being con- Jim. (Starts to speak against the motion.) sidered. A member can raise a point of Helen. I rise to ask a question. (Parlia- order while another has the floor. mentary inquiry.) Before stating a point of order, a member should rise and say, “Mr. President. State the question. President, I rise to a point of order,” without waiting for recognition from Helen. Has a member a right to debate the Chair. the motion while the motion to recon- A point of order does not re- sider is before the assembly? quire a second, cannot be debated President. He has, since the motion itself or amended, and must be settled at is debatable. (Allow members, to dis- once. The President may decide the cuss all they wish to, then put motion point, refer it to a member, or to a to vote.) The motion to reconsider the vote of the group. If in doubt, either motion just passed is before us. All use parliamentary inquiry, or keep still. in favor of reconsideration say aye; Do not use this method too freely. Be all opposed, no. Motion carried. The sure you are right before you speak. 27 *From Robert’s Rules of Order - Newly Revised, 9th Ed. (1990) Rules for Handling Motions*

Motion in order if Types of Motions Order of handling another has floor M>AIN MOTION

SUBSIDIARY MOTIONS2 To postpone indefinitely action on a motion Hoas precedence over above motion N To amend (improve) a main motion Hoas precedence over above motions N To refer motion to committee (for special consideration) Hoas precedence over above motions N To postpone definitely (to certain time) action on a motion Hoas precedence over above motions N To limit discussion to a certain time Hoas precedence over above motions N To call for vote (to end discussion at once and vote) Hoas precedence over above motions N To table motion (to lay it aside until later) Hoas precedence over above motions N

ISNCIDENTAL MOTION

To suspend a rule temporarily (e.g., to change order of business No No definite 4 To close nominations precedence No rule To reopen nominations No

To withdraw or modify a motion (to prevent vote or inclusion in Yes minutes)5

6 To rise to a point of order (to enforce rules or program) These motions have precedence over Yes motion to which they pertain To appeal from decision of the chair (must be made immediately)6 Yes

PSRIVILEGED MOTION To call for orders of the day (to keep meeting to program or order Hsas precedence over above motions Ye of business)6 Questions of privilege (to bring up an urgent matter--concernting Hsas precedence over above motions Ye noise, discomfort, etc.)3 To take a recess Hoas precedence over above motions N To adjourn Hoas precedence over above motions N To set next meeting time Hoas precedence over above motions N

U>NCLASSIFIED MOTIONS

See footnotes on next page

28 Rules for Handling Motions*

Vote can be Mdust be seconded Cdan be discusse Cdan be amende Vote require 1 reconsidered

Yes Yses Yse Yye Majorit

Yses Yoe NyMyajorit Affirmative vote onl Yees Yees, when motion is debatabl Yyes, but only onc Msajorit Ye Yses Yse Yye Msajorit Ye Yses Yse Yye Msajorit Ye Yoes NsY3e 2s/ Ye Yoes NoN32s/ Ye Yoes NoNyMoajorit N

Yoes NoN32o/ N

Yoes NsY3e 2o/ N

Yoes NsYye Myajorit Negative vote onl

Yes Noo NyMyajorit Negative vote onl

Noo NoNsNoo vote, chairman rule N

Yees Yoes, when motion is debatabl NyMsajorit Ye

No Noo NdNo vote require 7 No

No Noo NyMoajorit N

Yges Yses, if no motion is pendin Yye Moajorit N Yoes NoNyMoajorit N Yges Yees, if no motion is pendin Ays to time and plac Msajorit Ye

Yes Noo NyMoajorit N

Yes Yoes, when motion is debatable NyMoajorit N

Yees Yses, when motion is debatabl Y3e Msajority or 2/ Ye

See footnotes on next page

29 Appendix

Contest Preamble endeavors. Contests also designate a higher achievement and lower achievement. It is im- 4-H offers many opportunities to be in- portant for you to recognize this reality before volved in educational events and activities. For entering a contest. It is also critical that you example, members can choose to be involved learn how to gracefully accept winning as well in camps, project meetings, club meetings, spe- as losing. Both are equally valuable learning cial interest groups, festivals, fairs and contests. experiences. Participation in contests is one way that 4-H Everyone who participates in a contest is a members can develop the following life skills: winner because you’ve taken a risk by asking for another person’s informed opinion about • Fostering positive self-concept the quality of your effort. Regardless of the • Learning decision-making and responsi- final determination or ribbon placing, those bilities for choices who participate in 4-H contests learn how to • Developing an inquiring mind find information, organize ideas, put theory into • Relating to self and others practice, develop skills in communicating, and • Acquiring a concern for communities— have fun interacting with other young people, local and global leaders, and adults. Contests and other competitive events Some 4-H events and activities involve peer are only one way to evaluate growth and competition. Competition is an opportunity for development. There are also many other ways work or performance to be evaluated against to evaluate progress. 4-H members themselves the work of others by a designated person can continually evaluate their own work. This who brings his or her own perspective and self-evaluation is a real “learning by doing” training to the event. process. The results of contests provide a measur- ing tool to help make improvements in future

Footnotes, Rules for Handing Motions, assembly, the chairman announces that the motion is withdrawn or modified. If anyone previous pages objects, the request is put to a vote. 1A tied vote is always lost except on a motion to 6A member may interrupt the speaker who has appeal from the decision of the chair (see “Inci- the floor to rise to a point or order or appeal, dental Motions”) when a tied vote sustains the call for orders of the day, or raise a question of decision of the chair. privilege. 2Subsidiary motions are motions that pertain to a 7 Orders of the day may be changed by a motion main motion while it is pending. to suspend the rules (See “Incidental Motions.”) 3Most incidental motions arise out of another 8Motion can be taken from the table during the question that is pending and must be decided meeting when it was tabled or at the next before the question out of which they arise is meeting. decided 9Motion to reconsider may be made only by one 4The chair opens nominations with “Nominations who voted on the prevailing side. A motion to are now in order.” Nominations may be made reconsider must be made during the meeting by a nominating committee, by a nominating when it was decided or on the next succeeding ballot or from the floor. A member may make day of the same sessions. a motion to close nominations or the chair may declare nominations closed after assembly has 10 It is impossible to rescind any action that has been given a chance to make nominations. been taken as a result of a motion, but the unexecuted part may be rescinded. Notice 5The mover may request to withdraw or modify must be given on a meeting before the vote is his motion without consent of anyone before taken or if voted on immediately, a 2/3 vote to the motion has been put to assembly for con- rescind is necessary. sideration. When motion is before the assembly and if there is no objection from anyone in the

30 Gavel Games Former 4-H members who are now adults have consistently identified their knowledge of parliamentary Each team presents a model busi- procedure as one of the lasting skills ness meeting starting with the call to developed from their 4-H experi- order, including reports of officers and ence. Consequently, this is a skill that committees, unfinished and new busi- we would like to preserve in our 4-H ness, and ending with adjournment. programming. Teams will be allowed to use only the In the Gavel Games Contest, the information sheets listed on the at- contestants are teams of four 4-H tached page. members from a club who act as of- Each individual team receives a ficers for a model 4-H business meet- score on the oral presentation. Con- ing. In the senior division, these four ference judging is used to make the team members are not told which contest a more meaningful experi- of the four officers—President, Vice- ence. Teams will receive a written President, Secretary or Treasurer— score sheet from the judge after the they will serve as until they enter the contest. contest room. Consequently, it is im- Age divisions for the Gavel games portant to practice for all four offices. contest will be as follows: Junior, ages If a club has five members they 9-10; Intermediate, ages 11-13; and may all participate. The individual Senior, age 14 and older. If a team is drawing “alternate” should only par- comprised of mixed ages, it will be ticipate in the roll call, voting and considered in the category of compe- discussion portions of the team’s tition which the oldest team member presentation. In the intermediate divi- would be categorized. sion, a team of five can designate an The gavel is a symbol of author- alternate, before the other four team ity. The gavel is used by the person members draw for office. In the junior presiding to keep the meeting run- division, all offices can be assigned ning smoothly and orderly. To use the before the competition. gavel properly, the presiding officer If your club has only six or seven should stand squarely and firmly on interested members and cannot make both feet. Her or she should grasp two teams, one or two members from the handle of the gavel firmly and rap another team may be allowed to table or gavel block authoritatively compete twice so that everyone has with well-spaced raps. The gavel is an opportunity to compete on a team. used to:

1. Call the meeting to order—one tap 2. Maintain order—several taps 3. Adjourn the meeting—one tap 4. Signify that motions have either passed or failed—one tap

31 SCORE CARD - GAVEL GAME Ranking

Purple_____ NAME OF CLUB:______Blue_____ Red_____ White_____ Please check: ______Senior Team ______Intermediate Team ______Junior Team

Team Members’ Names Age Office Held (by drawing) ______

______

______(Alternate) ______

I. ORAL PRESENTATION A. Overall Presentation a. Pronunciation, Articulation and Volume (20 pts.)______b. Attitude, Naturalness and Ease of Presentation (20 pts.)______c. Appearance of Members and Presentation Area (10 pts.)______

(Sub-Total Possible 50 pts.)______

B. Presidents’ use of Gavel (5 pts.)_____ C. Call to Order (5 pts.)_____ D. Opening Exercise -Pledge or Motto & Roll Call (5 pts.)_____ E. Reading of the Minutes (5 pts.)_____ F. Communications (5 pts.)_____ G. Treasurer’s Report (5 pts.)_____ H. Committee Reports (5 pts.)_____ I. Program (5 pts.)_____ J. Announcements (5 pts.)_____ K. Adjournment (5 pts.)_____

Sub-total: ______(Sub-total Possible 50 pts.)

32 L. Unfinished or New Business (Points determined by Parliamentary Procedure—See Scoring Procedure, below) Scoring for Parliamentary Procedure For each required parliamentary procedure problem introduced correctly, 15 points will be awarded. In the handling of each different parliamentary procedure problem, 5 points will be deducted for each incorrect procedure up to a maximum of 15 points. No points will be earned or lost if a parliamentary procedure problem is introduced in the incorrect manner.

Done Needs Comments Points PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE: Correctly Work 1. Main Motion ______2. Table a Motion______3. Amend a Motion______4. Division of the House______5. Take from the Table______6. Division of the Question______7. Refer to a Committee______8. Rise to a Point of Order 9. Withdraw a Motion______10. Appeal the Decision of Chair ______11. Call for Previous Question______12. Rescind a Motion______13. Reconsider a Motion______14. Postpone a Motion Definitely______15. Introduce a Resolution______16. Reconsider & Have Entry in Min. ______17. Postpone a Motion Indefinitely______18. Object to Consideration of Question______

Quality of Overall Discussion______(15 pts) Page 2 Sub-Total: ______(135 pts) Page 1 Sub-Total:______(100 pts) Requirements: Juniors - Procedures 1-3 Grand Total:______(250 pts) Intermediates - Procedures 1-6 Seniors - Procedures 1-6 plus an additional three. One of the three will be drawn for on the day of the contest.

33 Rules Pertaining to the Parliamentary Procedure Contest (A) This contest will consist of teams of four (or five with an alternate) 4-H members: the president, the vice-president, program chairman, the secretary and the treasurer. Please refer to the score card for this contest to determine the scoring and point allocation system used.

(B) The order of business for the oral presentation is as follows:

1) Call to order 2) Opening exercise a) pledge or motto b) roll call

3) Reading of minutes, corrections if needed, approval of minutes a) the secretary should announce that there are no minutes due to the fact that this is a special parliamentary procedure presentation

4) Communications not requiring action—letters of appreciation, etc. a) one letter of communication is to be read

5) Report of Officers a) treasurer’s report is the only officer’s report that is to be given

6) Report of standing or special committees a) only one standing or special committee report is to be given

7) Unfinished business a) motions postponed at the last meeting and motions laid on the table at the last meeting b) the president should ask for unfinished business; however, it is recommended that all parliamentary problems be transacted during new business

8) New business as introduced a) refer to the “Approved list of Parliamentary Procedure Problems for the Parliamentary Proce- dure Contest”

9) Program a) the program chairman should announce that there is no program due to the fact that this is a special parliamentary procedure presentation

10) Announcements a) one announcement is to be given

11) Adjournment

C) Three division levels will be held as follows: Junior, 9-10 years; Intermediate 11-13 years; and Senior, 14 and older. Each division will have a different score with the higher scores in the more advanced divisions.

D) The following information sheets are the only notes that can be used during the oral presentation of this contest. 1) Sheet entitled — Rules Pertaining to the Parliamentary Procedure Contest 2) Sheet entitled — Approved List of Parliamentary Procedure Problems for the 4-H Parliamentary Procedure Contest 3) Secretary’s letter of communication 4) Treasurer’s written report of the club’s financial state 5) Sheet pertaining to the standing or special committee report

E) Each team will be allowed a maximum of 20 minutes to give their oral presentation.

34 Approved list of parliamentary procedure problems for the parliamentary procedure contest

1. Put a motion before the house

2. Lay a motion on the table

3. Amend a motion

4. Call for a division of the house

5. Take a motion from the table

6. Call for a division of the question

7. Refer a motion to a committee

8. Rise to a point of order

9. Withdraw a motion

10. Appeal the decision of the chair

11. Call for the previous question

12. Rescind a motion

13. Reconsider a motion

14. Postpone a motion definitely

15. Introduce a resolution

16. Reconsider and have entered on the minutes

17. Postpone a motion indefinitely

18. Object to the consideration of the question

NOTE: Juniors are required to do the first three problems on the list; intermediates, the first six; and seniors are required to do the first six plus three additional problems, one of which will be drawn for on the day of the contest. Any age level can demonstrate any additional parliamentary skills they so desire.

For questions, refer to The Meeting Will Come to Order (#NCR228) available through your county Extension office.

35 Intermediate Gavel Game Quiz Instructions: Fill in the correct response to these questions from the answers listed below. (Some answers can be used more than once.) (2 points each)

_____1. What is the correct form of introducing a main motion?

_____2. What is a quorum?

_____3. Are all main motions debatable?

_____4. Must one rise to second a motion?

_____5. How do you address the Chair?

_____6. What should the Chair say after stating the motion?

_____7. What is the best form in taking a vote by acclamation?

_____8. What is a main or principal motion?

_____9. What must be said following all main motions so that the item of business may be considered?

A. Rise and say “Madam” or “Mister President”. B. “All in favor say aye; opposed no.” C. One that introduces business. D. The minimum of members who must be present to transact business. E. “I make a motion..” F. “I second that.” G. By calling his/her first name. H. “I move that...” I. “Is there any discussion?” J. Yes K. No

Instructions: Draw a line from each pair of words in Column A to the correct descrip- tion of them in Column B. (1 point each)

Column A Column B The House Another term for a motion. The Chair More than half the votes cast. The Floor The organization, the club. The Question By virtue of or because of an office. The Majority The presiding officer. The Quorum Exclusive right to be heard at that time. Ex Officio Numbers competent to transact business.

36 Senior Gavel Game Quiz The following is a list of procedures and requirements. Please mark to the side of the procedures four requirements that must be made to properly use each procedure in a meeting. (1 point per blank)

Procedures: �� Amending the Main Motion - To change the motion to make it more satisfactory to the group.

�� To Reconsider - To bring an item of business back before the group for discussion and another vote.

�� Point of Order - To enforce the rules.

�� Division of the Question - To avoid voting on too many questions at one time.

�� To Take From the Table - To bring the question before the club again.

Requirements: A. It requires a second. F. It may not be amended. B. It does not require a second. G. It may be reconsidered. C. It is debatable. H. It may not be reconsidered. D. It is not debatable. I. It requires a majority vote. E. It may be amended. J. It requires a two-thirds vote.

Instructions: Please arrange the following items in order according to the 4-H Order of Business. Number them 1 through 11. (1 point per blank)

______Program ______Roll Call ______Call to Order ______Unfinished or Old Business ______Adjournment ______Announcements ______Reports of Officers ______New Business ______Communications (no action taken, letters, etc.) ______Reading/Approval of Minutes ______Report of Standing and Special Committees

37 Senior Gavel Game Quiz - continued Write “true” in the blank provided if the statement is true; write “false” in the blank provided if the statement is false. (2 points each)

______1. A member may vote against his/her own motion.

______2. Under the duties of the presiding officer, the Chair may not vote.

______3. One must rise and address the Chair to obtain the floor.

______4. The purpose of the motion to lay on the table is to bring an item of business back before the group for discussion and another vote.

______5. To move the previous question is to stop debate and order an immediate vote on a question.

______6. Calling for a division of the house means that a member desires to take a more accurate vote count.

______7. If a quorum is not present, then the meeting will not be adjourned and official business will be transacted.

______8. Referring an object to a committee will allow further investigation by a smaller group for the entire group to consider later.

______9. To rescind or repeal is to reconsider the vote upon a motion, not cancelling the action formerly taken upon it.

38 Gavel Games Answers

Intermediate Gavel Game Quiz Arrange in order: 9 Program H �� 1. What is the correct form of introducing 2 Roll Call a main motion? 1 Call to Order D �� 2. What is a quorum? 7 Unfinished or Old Business J �� 3. Are all main motions debatable? 11 Adjournment K �� 4. Must one rise to second a motion? 10 Announcements A �� 5. How do you address the Chair? 5 Reports of Officers I �� 6. What should the Chair say after stat- 8 New Business ing the motion? 4 Communications (no action taken, letters, etc.) B �� 7. What is the best form in taking a vote 3 Reading/Approval of Minutes by acclamation? C �� 8. What is a main or principal motion? 6 Report of Standing and Special Commit- F �� 9. What must be said following all main tees motions so that the item of business may be considered? Senior Gavel Game Quiz - page 2

False____1. A member may vote against Column A...... Column B his/her own motion. False_____2. Under the duties of the pre- The House ��The organization, the club. siding officer, the Chair may not vote. True_____3. One must rise and address The Chair. ��The presiding officer. the Chair to obtain the floor. The Floor ��Exclusive right to be heard at that time False____4. The purpose of the motion The Question ��Another term for a motion. to lay on the table is to bring an item of busi- The Majority ��More than half the votes ness back before the group for discussion and cast. another vote. The Quorum ��Numbers competent to False_____5. To move the previous ques- transact business tion is to stop debate and order an immediate Ex Officio ��By virtue of or because of vote on a question. an office True_____6. Calling for a division of the house means that a member desires to take a Senior Gavel Game Quiz more accurate vote count. False____7. If a quorum is not present, Procedures: then the meeting will not be adjourned and official business will be transacted. A, C, E, I, G Amending the Main Motion - To True_____8. Referring an issue to a com- change the motion to make it more satisfac- mittee will allow further investigation by a tory to the group. smaller group for the entire group to consider A, C, F, H, I To Reconsider - To bring an later. item of business back before the group for False____9. To rescind or repeal is to re- discussion and another vote. consider the vote upon a motion, not cancelling B, D, F, H Point of Order - To enforce the the action formerly taken upon it. rules. B, D, H, I Division of the Question - To avoid voting on too many questions at one time. A, D, F, H, I To Take From the Table - To bring the question before the club again. 39 4-H and Life Skills Development

Youth development is a process of mental, physi- Hands and Health. Two general categories of skills cal and social growth during which young people are included under each of the four headings: prepare to live a productive and satisfying life. Youth development experiences of high quality don’t just HEAD: thinking and managing happen. The best ones are carefully planned (1) to encourage life skill development while delivering HEART: relating and caring subject matter content and (2) to achieve specific outcomes. HANDS: working and giving

A skills is a learned ability to do something well. HEALTH: being and living Life skills are skills that help an individual to be suc- cessful in living a productive and fulfilling life. The In each of the general categories, a number of Targeting Life Skills Model categorizes life skills on important life skills have been identified as you can the basis of the four “H’s” that represent Head, Heart, tell from looking at the TLS model below.

Nurturing What is 4-H?

4-H is a part of the Montana State University The emblem of the 4-H program is a green four- Extension Service cooperating with the U.S. Depart- leaf clover with a white “H” in each leaf. The four ment of Agriculture and your local county govern- “H’s” stand for Head, Heart, Hands and Health and ment. 4-H members are those boys and girls who represent ways to develop the five life skills. participate in Extension-sponsored educational pro- HEAD: Learning to think, make decisions, un- grams which are open to all youth regardless of race, derstand the “whys,” gain new and valuable insights creed, color, sex, handicap or national origin. and knowledge. The goal of Montana 4-H is to educate youth and HEART: Being concerned with the welfare of adults for living in a global and ever-changing world others, accepting the responsibilities of citizenship in by using the resources of Land-Grant Universities our local and global communities, determining values and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. and attitudes by which to live and learning how to work with others. Montana 4-H uses educational, learning-by- doing projects, club meetings, community service HANDS: Learning new skills, improving skills projects, events, and activities for young people and already developed, instilling pride in work and re- adults as they work toward attaining these fiveLIFE spect for work accomplished. SKILLS: HEALTH: Practicing healthful living, protecting • Fostering positive self-concept the well-being of self and others and making con- • Learning decision-making and structive use of leisure time. responsibility for choices This four-fold development is vital to every indi- • Developing an inquiring mind vidual. All four of the “H’s” should be an important • Relating to self and others part of the goals youngsters identify as they partici- • Acquiring a concern for communities —local pate in 4-H sponsored programs and educational and global activities.

The programs of the Montana State University Extension Service are available to all people, regardless of race, creed, color, sex, disibility or national origin. Issued in furtherance of cooperative extension work in agriculture and home economics, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Depart- ment of Agriculture, Douglas L. Steel, Vice Provost and Director, Extension Service, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717

We encourage the use of this document for non-profit educational purposes. This document may be reprinted if no endorsement of a commercial product, service or company is stated or implied, and if appropriate credit is given to the author and the MSU Extension Service (or Experiment Station). To use these documents in electronic formats, permission must be sought from the Ag/Extension Communications Coordinator, Communications Services, 115 Culbertson Hall, Montana State University-Bozeman, Bozeman, MT 59717; (406) 994-2721; E-mail - [email protected].