Guiding Principles:
Everyone has the right to participate in a discussion if they wish, before anyone may speak a second time.
Everyone has the right to know what is going on at all times. Only urgent matters may interrupt a speaker.
You may INTERRUPT a speaker for these reasons only:
- To get information about business – point of information to get information about rules
- A parliamentary inquiry if you can't hear, safety reasons, comfort, etc.
- A question of privilege if you see a breach of the rules – point of order
Only one thing (motion) can be discussed at a time.
Motions
A motion is the topic under discussion (e.g., “I move that we add a coffee break to this meeting”). After being recognized by the president of the board, any member can introduce a motion when no other motion is on the table. A motion requires a second to be considered. Each motion must be disposed of (passed, defeated, tabled, referred to committee, or postponed indefinitely).
