Understanding the Motion in Roberts Rules of Order

At the core of any structured and efficient meeting or assembly lies a set of established procedures that govern its conduct. One such fundamental rule is the motion, a well-defined and formal proposal that initiates a discussion and, if agreed by the assembly, leads to action. Robert Henry M. III's Roberts Rules of Order Newly Revised 11th Edition (Perseus Books Group) provides an authoritative guide on these procedures. This article delves into the intricacies of the motion within the framework of these rules.

What is a Motion?

A motion is essentially a formal proposal made by a member of the assembly to take a specific action. This action could be of a substantive nature, such as approval, adoption, or rejection of a particular proposal, or it could serve a more declarative purpose, expressing an opinion, or directing an investigation. The motion acts as a vehicle for initiating discussion, gaining consensus, and ultimately facilitating action.

Components of a Motion

For a motion to be effective and accepted, it typically consists of several components:

Object Part: This defines what the motion is seeking to achieve. Motive Part: This provides the reason or rationale behind the motion.

A simple example of a motion might be: 'Resolved, that the budget for next fiscal year be set at $500,000 for marketing materials.' Here, the object part specifies the action (setting the budget), while the motive part might include relevant reasons for the decision, such as the current market trends or projected revenues.

The Process of Making a Motion

According to Roberts Rules of Order Newly Revised, the process of making a motion and handling it within the assembly is systematic and follows a series of steps:

Introduction of the Motion: Any member can make a motion by stating, 'I move that... ' or 'I second the motion that... '
Note: The motion must be seconded by another member before it can proceed to a vote. All motions must be in writing for the first time, and must be read aloud at the public meeting for at least one full minute. Discussion: Once the motion is made and seconded, the floor is open for discussion. It is important to ensure that the discussion is framed in a way that facilitates a clear understanding of the object and motive parts of the motion. Voting: After discussion, the motion is put to a vote. The vote can be either verbal, show of hands, or by roll call depending on the size of the assembly and the rule set.

The Significance of Motions

The concept of motions is pivotal in maintaining order and ensuring that meetings are productive. They provide a structured approach to problem-solving, decision-making, and action-taking. The use of motions ensures that the assembly can navigate through complex issues and arrive at decisions in a transparent and democratic manner.

Conclusion

Understanding the motion in the context of Roberts Rules of Order Newly Revised is essential for any member of an assembly or organization that seeks to conduct their meetings effectively. By adhering to these procedural rules, members can ensure that meetings are productive, legal, and inclusive. The motion, as a fundamental tool, serves as a bridge between discussion and action, making it a cornerstone of efficient and democratic assembly meetings.