What is a Meeting Motion?

A motion is the central mechanism that directors use to express themselves. A motion is a proposal that the entire board take action or stand on an issue. A motion should express a decision in precise terms that, if approved, will be self-explanatory. Typically a motion must be seconded by another director as a precondition to the discussion. Otherwise, the motion will “die for lack of a second” meaning that the board does not find the motion to be a worthy discussion. A motion can also be amended and, if the amendment is seconded, then the amended motion is also eligible for discussion and a vote.

Meeting Motion Best Practices

There are five methods used to vote by most organizations:

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• By voice – Vocally with a simple “aye, or “no.”
• By roll call – Each director is put on the record and asked for vote “yes,” “no,” or abstain from the vote.
• By unanimous consent ­– if a motion is routine and unlikely to be controversial, the chairperson may ask for unanimous consent. If any director objects, the motion must be put to a formal vote.
• By division ­– a simple show of hands to indicate support for the motion
• By ballot – Members write their vote down

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