SPIFAN SP Meeting September 17, 2016

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). 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). 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). 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). 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. 

Equality 

Justice 

Minority Rights 

Majority Rights 

Decisions are based on the will of the majority.  (Fundamentals of Parliamentary Law and Procedure, 3 rd  edition.  p. 2).