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Understanding Basic Motions <br />The basic element in parliamentary procedure is the MOTION. Robert's Rules lists and <br />explains eighty-four motions. Instead of trying to learn all those motions it would be <br />better to concentrate on thirteen frequently used motions. For some motions a second <br />"modern" name appears in brackets in the listing below. You will find nine of these <br />motions, listed in order of precedence, on this page and the other four motions, with no <br />exact order of precedence, on the next page. <br />Main Motion <br />The motion used to bring items and ideas before the group for a decision. "I move that <br />this organization assess each member one dollar at this meeting to be given to the Ciry <br />Clerk to pay for her dinner." <br />Amend <br />The motion used to produce wording changes in motions that have already been made <br />and are on the floor. "I move to amend the main motion by striking the word "City <br />Clerk" and inserting "a person from this group selected by a drawing." <br />Commit [Refer to Committee] <br />A motion used to send a motion to committee for study and a recommendation. "I <br />move that the motion concerning collecting money from each member to pay for dinner <br />be referred to the Finance Committee." <br />Postpone to a Certain Time [Postpone Definitely] <br />A motion used to delay action on a proposed motion until the next meeting. "I move to <br />postpone action on the pending motion until our next meeting." <br />Limit Debate <br />The motion to place an exact limit on the amount of debate prior to taking a vote. "I <br />move to limit the debate to three speeches for the motion and three speeches against the <br />motion." <br />Previous Question [Close Debate or Vote Immediately] <br />The motion which closes all debate on the immediate pending question and brings the <br />question to a vote. "I move to close debate." <br />Lay on the Table [Postpone Temporarily] <br />The motion to temporarily postpone a pending motion so that an emergency matter can <br />be brought before the group. "I move to table the main motion concerning an <br />assessment payment." Chair then asks, "What emergency is involved?" <br />Recess <br />The motion used to take a short break. "I move that we recess until 3:40 p.m." <br />Adjourn <br />The motion used to immediately terminate the meeting. "I move to adjourn." <br />S:\Administration\Council Guidebook\Parliamentary Procedures.doc <br />