This trimester I would like everyone to work on THE BASICS OF PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE. If everyone would use parliamentary procedures in their chapters, our meetings would run smoothly, and we could cut the time spent in meetings.

Parliamentary procedure is simple in principle. It is based largely on common sense and courtesy. It just seems technical due to the special vocabulary used. If the vocabulary is understood, the rules are easy.

The Basic Principles of Parliamentary Procedure: 1. Only one subject may claim the attention of the assembly at one time. 2. Each proposition presented for consideration is entitled to full and free debate. 3. Every member has rights that are equal to every other member. 4. The will of the majority must be carried out, and the rights of the minority must be preserved. 5. The personality and desires of each member should be merged into the organizational unit.

MOTIONS The proper way for an individual to propose that the group take a certain action is by making a motion. Main Motions have for their object the bringing of questions, or propositions before the assembly for consideration. Only one main motion can be considered at a given time by the assembly. Subsidiary Motions have for their object the modification or disposition of the main motion being considered. It is to propose them while a main motion is still before the assembly, and to vote upon them before voting upon the main motion. Privileged Motions have no connection whatsoever with the main motion before the assembly but are motions of such importance that they are entitled to immediate consideration. The main business before the house may be temporarily set aside to address a privileged motion. Incidental Motions arise "incidentally" out of the business of the assembly and have very common characteristics.

I hope this information will help your chapter meetings run smoothly. If you ever would like me to attend a meeting please contact me, as, I am always willing to travel.

Please find at the end of this article a question. Please text or email the answer.

Each trimester I will also put a game of some sort on the website for you to complete and email back to me.

After presenting a motion, what should be written up and given to the secretary? Maxine Turner State Board Parliamentarian Let Your Voice be Heard parli@newomenoftoday.org