What are Robert’s Rules of Order?
Robert’s Rules of Order is a widely used guide for conducting meetings and making decisions as a group. It ensures that meetings are fair, orderly, and democratic by giving everyone a voice and following a clear structure.
Why do we use Robert’s Rules in Faculty Senate?
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To promote efficiency and clarity in discussion
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To ensure equal participation among members
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To provide a structured process for proposing, debating, and voting on motions
What is a quorum, and why does it matter?
A quorum is the minimum number of voting members who must be present to conduct official business. Without quorum:
- No votes can be taken
- Only informal discussion can occur
What is a motion and how do I make one?
A motion is a formal proposal for the Senate to take action.
To make a motion:
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Wait to be recognized by the presiding officer.
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Say: “I move that…” followed by your proposal.
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A second is required: another senator must say, “I second the motion.”
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The Presiding Officer then states the motion, and it is open for discussion.
What if no one seconds a motion?
If there is no second, the motion does not proceed to discussion or vote. The presiding officer simply moves on to the next item of business.
Can I withdraw my motion after making it?
Yes. You can say:
“I request permission to withdraw the motion.”
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If no one objects, it’s withdrawn.
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If someone objects, the Senate votes on whether to allow withdrawal.
What if I want to amend a motion?
You can say:
“I move to amend the motion by…” (adding, deleting, or changing wording)
The amendment must be seconded, discussed, and voted on before the group returns to the original motion.
Can multiple motions be on the floor at once?
Only one main motion can be considered at a time. However, subsidiary motions (like amendments, referrals, or postponements) can be made while the main motion is under consideration.
What happens if debate goes off topic?
Any senator may say:
“Point of Order – the discussion is not germane to the motion.”
The presiding officer will decide whether the point is valid and may redirect discussion or call for a vote.
How do I end debate and call for a vote?
Say:
“I move the previous question.”
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Requires a second.
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Requires a 2/3 majority vote to end debate and proceed to voting.
What if I want to table a discussion?
Say:
“I move to lay the motion on the table.”
This temporarily suspends the motion, usually to address more urgent business. It must be seconded and passed by a majority.
How do I refer a motion to a committee?
Say:
“I move to refer the motion to the [name] committee.”
You may specify a deadline or ask that the committee report back at a future meeting.
Can a motion be reconsidered at the next meeting?
Only if the body’s rules or bylaws allow it, and typically only by a member who voted on the prevailing side of the original motion.
What’s the difference between a motion to postpone and a motion to table?
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Postpone: Delay consideration until a specific time or date.
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Table: Set the motion aside temporarily with no set return time.
What if we’re running out of time?
You can move to:
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Limit debate (e.g., 2 minutes per speaker)
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Postpone to a later meeting
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Adjourn, if appropriate
Can a motion be ruled out of order?
Yes. The Presiding Officer can declare a motion out of order if:
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It violates bylaws
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It conflicts with previously adopted motions
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It’s inappropriate for the current agenda
Can non-members speak or make motions?
That depends on Faculty Senate rules. Typically:
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Non-members may not make motions or vote
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They may speak if recognized and permitted by the presiding officer or Senate rules
Can I just speak whenever I want?
Not quite. Follow these steps:
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Wait to be recognized by the presiding officer.
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Keep comments relevant to the motion.
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Avoid interrupting others unless it’s a valid point (see below).
What are some useful points I can raise?
|
Point |
Purpose |
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Point of Order |
To correct a rule violation or procedure |
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Point of Information |
To request clarification on the motion or topic |
|
Point of Personal Privilege |
To address an urgent personal concern |
|
Point of Parliamentary Inquiry |
To ask about proper procedure |
What types of votes are there?
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Voice Vote: “Ayes” and “Nays”
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Show of Hands
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Roll Call Vote: Especially for significant decisions
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Consent: If no objection, action is approved
What if I disagree with the vote?
You may move to reconsider the motion only if you were on the prevailing side of the original vote. This must be done during the same meeting or in a timely manner if allowed by the bylaws.
Can the presiding officer participate in debate?
Typically, the presiding officer remains neutral. If they wish to debate, they should temporarily relinquish their role to another member.
Where can I learn more?
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The Faculty Senate Secretary and Presiding Officer are available for questions.
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The official reference is Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly Revised.
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Quick-reference guides and cheat sheets are often available upon request.
Is the presiding officer allowed to vote?
Yes, but usually:
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The presiding officer votes only to break a tie
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Some bylaws may allow or restrict presiding officer voting further