Robert’s Rules of Order
In general, people who serve on nonprofit boards or in local government are peaceful and compliant. But every once in a while, you get a rogue board member. What can be done? We believe that it’s important for boards to be prepared to sanction rogue members when necessary. Download PDF This is an unpleasant subject.…
This week I had the pleasure of presenting Jurassic Parliament to Kate Plesha’s student government class at Roosevelt High School.
Updated November 19, 2022 Second the motion—everybody knows how to do that, right? Well, in fact there are some funny ideas floating around about this ordinary act of meeting procedure. Let’s unravel the mysteries. Second the motion—why? Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised, 12th edition, says that a person seconds a motion in order to…
Do you find this dangling headline annoying? Unfortunately bylaws are often left dangling. Once you’ve amended your bylaws, here are some important steps to take. Prepare a copy of the amended bylaws that contains all changes that were made. Make sure that “track changes” has not tricked you into unexpected errors. Review all the numbering…
Confusion about the role of the chair at meetings can be widespread. Here are some parameters. Download PDF Chair of large meeting does not discuss and vote When a large assembly (group) is meeting, the chair serves as a facilitator. The chair does not take part in debate (discussion) and does not vote, unless the…
A reader writes, “The city council has never used much parliamentary procedure in our meetings. People speak when they want and sidebar discussions are common. How to ease the council into more parliamentary procedure without confusing them?” It’s a great question. Here are three steps you can take to get your council or board to…
In our view, the motions Point of Order and Appeal are the heart of our democracy. They provide the mechanism to stop a dictatorial chair who is acting like a “boss.” They are essential for every local government body, nonprofit board, and any group that functions on democratic principles. Learn how to use them to ensure…
Announcement from the National Association of Parliamentarians We are deeply saddened to share that Henry M. Robert III, grandson of General Henry M. Robert, author of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised and honorary President of the National Association of Parliamentarians, peacefully passed away the morning of Sunday, January 6. Mr. Robert’s presence and guidance…
High drama in the House of Commons as Member of Parliament expelled for the day.
Interrupting is one of the most common conversational gambits in our American society. It is not allowed at meetings run according to Robert’s Rules of Order.
