Parliamentary Procedure

Quorum - is the number or proportion of members present to be able to conduct actions like debating, making motions, or voting. Agenda items like hearing reports or announcements are permissible without quorum.

An organization's bylaws will determine the number of members needed for quorum.

Voting is the fundamental component to actions within a governing body. The base voting structure is by majority rule. However, it is possible for an organization to require a different type of voting depending on the decision being voted on. These rules will be laid out in an organization's bylaws. Common forms of voting are as follows:

1. Majority Vote - Again, the most common form of voting. Simply, the members vote between two options. The option that receives the most votes wins.

2. Plurality Vote - This is typically done when there are more than two options to vote on. A vote to determine a winning candidate for an office or position is a good example:

Candidate A - 23 votes

Candidate B - 22 votes

Candidate C - 21 votes

3. Two-Thirds Vote - Requires two-thirds of the assembly to be an agreement for something to pass or fail

4. Vote by General Consensus - This type of voting is generally a way to save time or avoid additional discussion if the proposed action has little consequence or seemed generally agreed upon in discussion. Some good examples would be if the presiding chair or officer asks if they can invite a guest speaker, a call to end the meeting, or a call to table discussion.

• Abstentions - Every member has the right to not vote. While there is not a requirement for a member to justify their abstention, the most common reasons for an abstention are either a financial or personal interest in the outcome of a vote

• Tie Vote - A tie vote on a motion does not result in a deadlock. Which means that, if a majority is not reached, the motion will die. However, a tie that does result in a deadlock (any vote on an action called for in a motion or between two options or candidates) must be re-voted on until a majority decision is reached. An assembly may determine alternative methods to resolve a deadlock.

• Vote of the Presiding Officer - The only member that relinquishes any member rights when they take office is the President or Presiding Officer. While they relinquish their rights to propose motions or nominate candidates, they do retain the right to vote. Often, the Presiding Officer will not vote unless the vote is by ballot or their vote could alter the outcome. This is, generally, to preserve an aura of impartiality and objectivity.