Chapter 11: How Are Rules Enforced And How Are They Suspended?

What is a Point of Order?

- A motion that is called if a member deems the chair isn't following the rules

- You stand up, interrupt the chair or speaker if necessary, and without waiting to be recognized, call out "Point of Order!"

Is a second necessary for a Point of Order?

No and neither is a vote

Appeal

- If the group as a whole (not the chair) disagrees with a ruling by the chair, you may Appeal it to the group - Without waiting to be recognized, you stand and say "I appeal from the decision of the chair."

- Requires a second

When does the vote on the Appeal need to be taken without debate?

1. Relates to indecorum or a transgression of the rules of speaking 2. Relates to the priority of business; or 3. Is made when an undebatable question is immediately pending or involved in the Appeal

What does an Appeal need to overturn the chair?

- A majority vote in the negative to overturn the chair's ruling

- If it is a tie, the chair wins and the appeal is lost

What does it mean to Suspend the Rules?

When you wish to be able to do something forbidden by the rules (ex: extending allotted speaking time...)

What does the motion Suspend the Rules require?

A second may be neither amended nor debated and requires a two-thirds vote

Do you need to name the rule that is to be suspended when moving to Suspend the Rules?

No, you just describe what it is you want to be able to do that would violate the rules

What do you make if you want to ask a question about the rules and how they apply to what is going on or to something you want to do?

A Parliamentary Inquiry

Do you have to be recognized to make a parliamentary inquiry?

No, you simply stand and say "A parliamentary inquiry, please."

What is the Parliamentarian's role?

To advise the presiding officer in responding to points of order and parliamentary inquiries, and generally to provide advice on conducting the meeting according to the rules.