Parliamentary law is an orderly set of rules for conducting meetings of an organized group in such a way as to enable members to accomplish their goals fairly. Proper use of parliamentary procedure insures:
Maintenance of order
Rules of the majority
Respect for the right of the minority
Justice and equality for all; and
Fair consideration of one thing at a time

PARLIAMENTARY TERMINOLOGY

Amendment: Before the vote is taken on a motion, it may be amended by:
Striking out words
Inserting or adding words
Striking out words and inserting others in their place
Substituting one (1) paragraph or resolution for another

Bylaws: Rules adopted by an association for its guidance. Should be reviewed every five (5) years for necessary amendment(s) or revision(s). Must meet state and national bylaws requirements. Bylaws may NOT be suspended.

Chair: The presiding officer.

Majority Vote: More than half of the votes cast.

Motion: A formal proposal made to bring a subject before an assembly for its consideration and action.

Plurality Vote: A plurality vote is the largest number of votes to be given any candidate or proposition when three or more choices are possible; the candidate or proposition receiving the largest number of votes has a plurality.

Quorum: The number of members required to be present at a meeting, as set forth in the bylaws, in order that business may be transacted legally.

Standing Rules: Rules related to the details of the administration rather than to parliamentary procedure. They must not conflict with the bylaws. Standing rules are adopted by a majority vote; amended by a two thirds vote without notice or by a majority vote with notice. They can be suspended by a majority vote.

STEPS FOR A MAIN MOTION

Only members are legally qualified to make motions, discuss and vote.
Member rises when no one else has the floor and “addresses” the chair (presiding officer). “Madam (or Mister) President”
Member is “recognized” by the chair announcing member’s name or nodding to the member. “Mr./Mrs. _____________”
Member makes the motion. (The motion should be written out if possible and sent to the chair). “I move that…..”
Another member seconds the motion. “Second”
If there is no second, the chair may say, “Is there a second?” If there is still no second, the chair says, “There is no second, the motion is not before the assembly.”
Chair states the motion. “It is moved and seconded that…(read or repeat the motion)”
Chair calls for debate. “Is there any discussion?”
Chair “puts the question”, i.e. takes the vote. “Those in favor, say aye.” (Pause) “Those opposed, say no.” (Pause)
Chair announces the result and makes it clear what the association will or will not do as a result of the vote. “The noes have it, the motion is lost, and we will not…”