Which motion requires a second in parliamentary procedure?

Which motion requires a second in parliamentary procedure?

• A. Close Nominations
• B. Suspend the Rules
• C. Point of Order
• D. Division of the House

Answer: (B)

In parliamentary procedure, the motion to "Suspend the Rules" requires a second because it is a formal action that seeks to temporarily set aside the established rules that govern the meeting. This motion is not typically used frequently and can significantly alter the course of a meeting, which is why it is important for another member to voice support for the motion by seconding it. A second indicates that at least one other member of the assembly supports considering the motion, thereby ensuring that it is not simply an individual wish and has some level of backing from the assembly. This keeps the process democratic and prevents frivolous proposals from taking up valuable meeting time. On the other hand, "Close Nominations," "Point of Order," and "Division of the House" do not require a second. The former is an action that often reflects a consensus on stopping nominations, while the latter two are procedural points that seek to maintain order or clarify votes, respectively, and do not necessitate additional member support to be raised.

In parliamentary procedure, the motion to "Suspend the Rules" requires a second because it is a formal action that seeks to temporarily set aside the established rules that govern the meeting. This motion is not typically used frequently and can significantly alter the course of a meeting, which is why it is important for another member to voice support for the motion by seconding it.

A second indicates that at least one other member of the assembly supports considering the motion, thereby ensuring that it is not simply an individual wish and has some level of backing from the assembly. This keeps the process democratic and prevents frivolous proposals from taking up valuable meeting time.

On the other hand, "Close Nominations," "Point of Order," and "Division of the House" do not require a second. The former is an action that often reflects a consensus on stopping nominations, while the latter two are procedural points that seek to maintain order or clarify votes, respectively, and do not necessitate additional member support to be raised.