Glossary
What does “Motion” mean?
A formal proposal that a group take an action or adopt a position, put forward by a member so the group can debate and vote on it.
What it means
A formal proposal that a group take an action or adopt a position, put forward by a member so the group can debate and vote on it. Under Robert’s Rules a motion is made with the words “I move that…” and usually needs a second before discussion.
An example
“I move that we spend up to $1,500 on new benches,” says a member; another says “Second,” the chair restates it, the group debates, and it passes nine votes to three.
Not to be confused with: Resolution
A motion is the proposal while it is being considered; once adopted, the formal written decision it produces is often called a resolution.
Where you will see it
In boards, councils, associations, unions and any meeting run by parliamentary procedure, and in their minutes, which record each motion and the vote.
Questions
Does seconding a motion mean you support it?
No — a second only means at least one other member thinks it should be discussed.
Can a motion be changed?
Yes, by an amendment, which is itself proposed, debated and voted on before the main motion.
Other meeting words
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