BRIEF PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURES

A. Eight steps observed in obtaining action on a question are:
    1. Addressing the Chair.
    2. Awaiting recognition.
    3. Making the motion (“I move to …”, or “I move that…”).
    4. Seconding the motion (when there is no second, the question or motion is not stated; the motion is lost).
    5. Stating the question (By the Chair).
    6. Opening the question for discussion or debate (“Are there remarks?”, or “Is there any discussion?”, or “Are you ready for the question?”).
    7. Putting the question (By the Chair).
    8. Stating the result of the vote (By the Chair).

B. The Chair is provided the following summary of parliamentary rules:
    1. Open the session at the time prescribed for its opening by taking the Chair and rapping once with the gavel to call the meeting to order.
    2. Announce the business to come before the assembly according to the “Order of Business”.
    3. Recognize a member entitled to the floor.
    4. State the motion, following a second, and put to vote all questions which are properly moved and which are in order; announce the results of the vote.  (The Chair never asks for a second; if there is no second, the Chair does not state the motion.  He may say, “Do I hear a second?”…He does not ask “Is there a second?”  If no one seconds a motion that has been made, the Chair states, “The motion is lost for want of a second.”)
    5. Protect the assembly from a frivolous or dilatory motion by refusing to state it, saying instead, “The Chair cannot entertain the motion.”
    6. Assist in every way possible to expedite business, always giving members their rights in the assembly.
    7. Keep members engaged in debate within the rules of order.  When debate is to be limited, enforce the time limitation.  Restore order when the conduct of members in debate has gotten out of hand.
    8. On all occasions enforce the observance of order and decorum among the members of the assembly.
    9. When necessary, inform the assembly on a point of order or practice pertinent to pending business.
    10. In case of great emergency, the Chair has the right and the duty to declare the assembly adjourned to some other time (and place) if it is impractical to take a vote, and, circumstances indicate danger, to delay long enough to take a vote.
    11. When necessary, authenticate with the President’s signature, all acts, orders and proceeding of the assembly declaring its well and in all things obeying its commands.
    12. The Chair should always refer to himself as “the Chair”, not as “I”.
    13. The Chair should rise:
            a. To put a question to vote.
            b. When giving reasons for a decision on a point of order.
            c. When speaking upon an appeal.
        The Chair should be seated:
            a. During debate.
            b. When a report is being given.
            c. When a speaker is appearing on the program.

    14. The Chair cannot interrupt a member who has the floor, as long as the member does not transgress any of the rules of the assembly.
    15. If a member of the society, the Chair is entitled to:
            a. Cast a vote when the voting is by ballot.
            b. When the vote is via voice vote, the Chair can make or break a tie.
    16. The Chair cannot close debate unless by order of the assembly.
    17. The Chair cannot prevent the making of legitimate motions by hurrying through the proceedings.
    18. The Chair should not only be familiar with parliamentary usage, but should be familiar with the rules and regulations of the society.  If question should arise, consult with Parliamentarian.
    19. The Chair does not enter into debate or speak on a question unless the President-elect or the Secretary is asked to fill the office and the Chair will then remain out of the chair until the matter or question has been acted upon.