Organizing Committee Parliamentary Rules & Procedures

Call to Order: The meeting is officially started by the chairperson or presiding officer. 

 Roll Call: The secretary or designated person takes attendance to ensure that a quorum (the minimum number of members required to conduct business) is present. 

 Reading and Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the previous meeting are read, and any necessary corrections are made. A motion is made to approve the minutes, seconded, and voted on. 

 Reports: Officers, committees, and individuals provide updates on their assigned tasks or areas of responsibility. 

 Old Business: Any unfinished business from previous meetings is discussed and resolved. 

 New Business: New items are introduced for discussion and possible action. This is where most of the decision-making occurs. 

 Motions: To introduce a new piece of business or propose a decision, a member makes a motion. Another member must second the motion to proceed with the discussion. 

 Discussion: Once a motion is made and seconded, the chair opens the floor for discussion. Members can speak in favor of or against the motion, or propose amendments. 

 Amendments: If a member wishes to change the wording of a motion, they can propose an amendment. Amendments must be seconded and voted on before the main motion is voted on. 

 Voting: When the discussion is complete, the chair calls for a vote on the motion. Voting can be done by voice, show of hands, or ballot. The majority typically rules, unless otherwise specified in the bylaws. 

 Adjournment: When all business is completed, a motion is made to adjourn the meeting, seconded, and voted on.