Glossary of Parliamentary Terms

Abstain – To refrain from making a selection; allowing a member to maintain a neutral position on a vote.

Amend – To change a resolution or motion by adding, striking out, or striking out and inserting a word or words.

Appeal – A delegate’s refusal to accept the chair’s ruling, based on the delegate’s belief that the presiding officer made a parliamentary error. Must be seconded. A majority vote or a tie vote sustains the decision of the chair.

Commit – To refer to a committee.

Convention Rules – The Convention’s first order of business. The delegates determine for themselves how to provide for an orderly procedure, and to achieve maximum business within the minimum time of the convention period. Requires 2/3rds vote for adoption, and 2/3rds vote to affect any later change.

Division – A demand for a clarification of the vote; a standing vote with the delegates counting off. Can be ordered by the chair or a single delegate.

Lay on the Table – To place a main motion or resolution and all amendments pending in the secretary’s book. If a delegate wishes to bring the matter back onto the floor (Take from the table), he/she may do so, but only after one intermediate item of business has been transacted, and before the adjournment of the convention. A motion is required to TABLE and to TAKE FROM THE TABLE.

Majority – More than half of those voting. Those who do not vote are not counted.

Motion – A means by which business is brought before the assembly.

New Business – Only items which do not properly belong under the divisions of the order of business.

Parliamentary Inquiry – The method by which a delegate may seek an immediate answer to a question concerning parliamentary rules.

Point of Information – The method by which a delegate may seek an immediate answer to a question concerning the content or background of a motion or resolution.

Point of Order – Must be raised at the time of the alleged infraction. Is raised against any proceeding motion deemed in violation of the rules of procedure, bylaws, etc. The Chair rules on the validity of the point of order.

Precedence or Rank of Previous Question – The motion’s claim to “right of way” over another motion, as outlined, in Robert’s Rules, Newly Revised.

Previous Question in its Entirety – If adopted by 2/3rds vote, closes debate on the main motion (resolution) and all pending amendments.

Privilege – The right to immediate consideration of a matter that affects that safety, orderliness or comfort of the delegates, or that affects the honor of an individual member, or the integrity of the organization.

Reconsider – To review a matter previously disposed of, and to vote on it again. The motion must be made by a delegate who voted on the prevailing (winning) side. Requires a majority vote. Reconsideration may not be moved more than once on the same motion or resolution.

Two-Thirds Vote – Twice as many “yes” as those voting “no”.

Unfinished Business – Any matter that may be pending; any question that may have been postponed.

Parliamentary Procedure at a Glance