CP CP Motions & Voting Procedures 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A 'division of the assembly' is called to:
- Split the body into committees
- Verify a voice vote by rising (Correct answer)
- Separate two unrelated motions
- Divide a meeting into sessions
Correct answer: Verify a voice vote by rising
Division of the assembly demands a rising or counted vote to verify an inconclusive voice vote result.
Question 2: The motion to 'reconsider' can only be made by a member who:
- Was absent during the original vote
- Voted on the prevailing side (Correct answer)
- Seconded the original motion
- Voted against the original motion
Correct answer: Voted on the prevailing side
Only a member who voted on the winning side may move to reconsider, ensuring the motion reflects a genuine change of mind.
Question 3: Which subsidiary motion has the lowest rank (least precedence)?
- Lay on the table
- Postpone indefinitely (Correct answer)
- Limit debate
- Commit to committee
Correct answer: Postpone indefinitely
Postpone indefinitely has the lowest rank among subsidiary motions and can only be applied to a main motion.
Question 4: When a 'previous question' motion is adopted, what is the immediate effect?
- The meeting is adjourned
- Debate ends and the assembly votes immediately (Correct answer)
- The motion is tabled
- A new motion may be introduced
Correct answer: Debate ends and the assembly votes immediately
Adopting the previous question closes debate and forces an immediate vote on the pending motion(s).
Question 5: A 'counted vote' differs from a 'show of hands' in that it:
- Requires a two-thirds threshold
- Records the exact number on each side (Correct answer)
- Must be requested by the chair
- Applies only to elections
Correct answer: Records the exact number on each side
A counted vote produces an exact numerical tally for both the affirmative and negative, unlike an informal show of hands.
Question 6: Which of the following motions can be renewed at the same meeting?
- Main motion after it has been voted down
- Adjourn when the result would be the same
- Lay on the table after conditions have changed (Correct answer)
- Reconsider after it has already been voted on
Correct answer: Lay on the table after conditions have changed
Lay on the table may be renewed if conditions have materially changed since the last time it was voted down.
CP CP Motions & Voting Procedures 2
A 'division of the assembly' is called to: