This is a quick guide on how to use the motion Object to Consideration of a Question.
The Skinny
- What motion should you use if you want your group to avoid any consideration of a main motion?
Use the motion called Object to Consideration of a Question.
- What should you say?
Say this: “I object to consideration of the question.” OR “I object to consideration of this motion.”
- When can you make this motion?
You can make this motion under the following circumstances:- You may make this motion as long as there has not been any discussion on the motion you are objecting to.
- You may make this motion as long as none of the following motions have been made: Postpone Indefinitely, Amend, Refer to Committee, Postpone to a Specific Time, Limit or Extend Limits of Debate, Previous Question, Raise a Question of Privilege, Call for the Orders of the Day, Recess, Adjourn, or Fix the Time to Which to Adjourn.
- You can make the motion if the motion to Lay on the Table has been made, but not if it has been seconded and stated by the Chair.
- Can you interrupt another speaker to make this motion?
Yes, you may interrupt anytime before discussion on the motion objected to has started. But if discussion on the motion has begun, you may not make this motion to Object to Consideration of a Question.
- Does someone have to say, “Second” after this motion is proposed?
No.
- Can people debate the pros and cons of this motion?
No.
- Can this motion be amended?
No.
- How many votes does this motion need to pass?
Two-thirds. At least two-thirds of the members present and voting must vote against considering the motion for that motion not to be considered.
An Example
- A poorly drafted main motion dealing with a controversial topic has just been made.
- Member A thinks that the group is not ready to take a position on the topic, and she’s concerned that discussing the motion could be dangerous for the group’s reputation because of what certain members might say.
- Member A rises and without waiting to be recognized says, “I object to consideration of this motion.”
- The Chair takes a vote immediately, without waiting for a second or asking for discussion. The Chair says, “Member A has objected to consideration of this motion. Shall the motion be considered?”
- If at least two-thirds of the members present and voting vote in the negative—against consideration of the question—then the main motion will not be considered. If at least two-thirds of the members present and voting do not vote in the negative, then the group continues discussing the main motion.
What the Pros Know
- If this motion is adopted, the main motion that the group objected to considering cannot be brought up again during the same meeting unless the group agrees to do so by unanimous consent or unless the group reconsiders its vote on the motion to Object to Consideration of a Question.
Where to Learn More
