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Definitions
Quorum
The number of members who must be present in order to validly transact business. It is
determined by the number of members present, not the number present and voting.
(Fundamentals of Parliamentary Law and Procedure, 3
rd
edition. p. 151).
Representative Voting
Panel Members
Every member has an obligation to vote and the right to abstain.
Abstentions
Abstentions reduce the number required to obtain a majority of those present and voting.
They are only counted to confirm the presence of a quorum.
(Fundamentals of Parliamentary Law and Procedure, 3
rd
edition. p. 237).
Stakeholders Privileges
Order
Meetings should address only one item of business at one time (only one pending motion
at a time). Chairs should not permit digression or introduction of different topics until the
business at hand is resolved. No pending motions while changing topics. (
Fundamentals of
Parliamentary Law and Procedure, 3
rd
edition. p. 1)
.
All business must be conducted with order and should be done fairly and impartially. The
presiding officer should impartially ensure that each member has an opportunity to speak.
(Fundamentals of Parliamentary Law and Procedure, 3
rd
edition. pp. 1‐2).
Equality
All members have equal opportunity to propose motions, to participate in debate, to vote,
to serve on committees or as an officer, to share in activities according to the member’s
abilities.
(Fundamentals of Parliamentary Law and Procedure, 3
rd
edition. p. 2).
Justice
All members have the right to ask questions, to be informed, to have complex motions
explained by the chair.
(Fundamentals of Parliamentary Law and Procedure, 3
rd
edition.
p. 2).
Minority Rights
Dissenting members have equal rights to voice opposing or minority opinions and strive to
become the majority.
(Fundamentals of Parliamentary Law and Procedure, 3
rd
edition.
p. 2).
Majority Rights
No members, board, or officers have the right to dictate or control decisions unless the
member grant such rights
Members may not take any action in conflict with federal, regional or organizational laws
or policies.
Decisions are based on the will of the majority.
(Fundamentals of Parliamentary Law and Procedure, 3
rd
edition. p. 2).