These questions and answers are taken directly from The Standard Code of Parliamentary Procedure.
When an organization's bylaws disagree with its parliamentary authority, which should it follow? - An organization should follow its bylaws. A parliamentary authority's purpose is to serve as a back up or guide for situations not covered by bylaws or standing rules.
If an organization has followed certain practices for a long time, are these practices considered rules of the organization? - Yes. Custom and tradition can establish unwritten rules. However, it is advisable to put them in writing as standing rules.
Is it possible to explain a motion before making it? - Yes, but it is advisable to be brief. This is in order to allow for proper time for discussion and potential amendments.
If a motion requires a two-thirds vote, do amendments to it also require a two-thirds vote? - No. The two-thirds requirement applies only to the final vote.
Can a motion be withdrawn? - Yes, a motion can be withdrawn after being made. While doing this is considered a motion, it is common for organizations to allow rescinding a motion by just stating that one withdraws, or rescinds, their motion during discussion of it.
Does a meeting being virtual change any of these rules? - The answer is that they do not inherently do this. However, a specific group might decide to set new rules or augment rules to better fit a virtual meeting environment. If a group is using software like Zoom or Microsoft Teams, some good practices might be to write down motions and amendments in the chat, using the "react" feature to virtually raise hands to be added to the speaking order, or utilizing other "react" tools to facilitate voting.
Sturgis, A. (2001). The standard code of parliamentary procedure (4th ed. / revised by the American Institute of Parliamentarians.). McGraw-Hill.
