How to Amend a Motion: Robert’s Rules of Order
Amending a motion is a crucial aspect of parliamentary procedure, especially when it comes to ensuring that the discussion and voting process is fair and efficient. Robert’s Rules of Order, a widely recognized set of guidelines for conducting meetings, provides a structured approach to amending motions. In this article, we will explore the steps and rules involved in amending a motion according to Robert’s Rules of Order.
Understanding the Purpose of Amending a Motion
Before diving into the process, it is essential to understand why one would want to amend a motion. Amending a motion allows the assembly to refine or clarify the proposal, address concerns, or incorporate additional information. It is a democratic process that ensures the motion reflects the collective will of the assembly members.
Types of Amendments
There are several types of amendments that can be made to a motion, including:
1. Substantive Amendments: These amendments change the substance of the motion, altering its meaning or purpose.
2. Erasements: These amendments delete a portion of the motion, removing specific clauses or provisions.
3. Insertions: These amendments add new clauses or provisions to the motion.
4. Replacements: These amendments replace the entire motion with a new one.
Rules for Amending a Motion
To amend a motion according to Robert’s Rules of Order, the following rules must be followed:
1. Time for Amending: The motion must be amendable during the discussion phase of the motion. Once the assembly has reached the question of whether to pass the motion, no further amendments can be made.
2. Motion to Amend: To propose an amendment, a member must make a motion to amend. This motion must be seconded before it can be considered.
3. Second Reading: The assembly must then vote on the motion to amend. If the motion to amend is adopted, the assembly proceeds to the second reading of the amended motion.
4. Subsequent Amendments: If the assembly adopts the motion to amend, subsequent amendments can be proposed and voted on, following the same rules.
5. Voting on the Amended Motion: Once all amendments have been considered, the assembly votes on the amended motion as a whole.
Special Considerations
In some cases, special considerations may apply when amending a motion. For example:
1. Main Motion and Subsidiary Motions: A main motion can be amended, but a subsidiary motion (such as a motion to postpone) cannot be amended.
2. Reconsideration: A motion to reconsider a previously adopted motion cannot be amended.
3. Previous Question: A motion to lay on the table or postpone indefinitely cannot be amended.
By following these rules and understanding the purpose of amending a motion, assemblies can ensure that their discussions and decisions are conducted fairly and effectively. Robert’s Rules of Order provides a clear framework for amending motions, allowing for a democratic and structured process.
