Because Toastmasters International follow Roberts Rules of Order, it is necessary to bring a motion to the floor to take a vote. Tonight, we had a motion on the floor that would (if passed) provide a scholarship for one club member to attend the upcoming district conference. Seems pretty simple, right? Then there was an amendment, and another motion, and another amendment.
Although most of us were confused about exactly how we managed it, I am pleased to say we did move forward with the scholarship! I am excited to know that at least one additional person from our club will be able to attend. Our club has agreed to support a District Speech Contest Competitor. If we do not have anyone selected from our club for the contest, we will send a general club member instead.
In addition to the scholarship, our members got a great learning introduction to parliamentary procedure. In order to help us understand the rules better, please see the simple steps for handling a motion below.
How do you feel about the business discussion we had? Did you feel lost? Do you like using parliamentary procedure? What could make the experience better?
- A member seeks recognition for the floor
- Chairman recognizes the member (member obtains the floor)
- Member makes a motion
- Another member seconds the motion
- Chairman states the question
- Debate (amendment and secondary motions)
- Chairman puts the question to a vote
- Chairman announces the result of the vote
(from www.parlipro.org)
Motion to Amend - Must be voted for by a majority to be considered. After approved follow steps 5-8 for the amendment ONLY. *Something that confuses many people is that sometimes amendments can change the purpose/ intent of the motion. Because of this, it is necessary to vote on whether or not the group wants to pass the amendment. If it is passed, the motion will be voted on in it's amended form.
