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Test Yourself
Questions Answers The intent of this column is to provide general answers or advice (not formal, official opinions) about the questions asked. The answers are based on the most recent edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised, unless otherwise indicated, and do not take into account such governing authorities as statutes, bylaws, adopted special rules of order, other parliamentary authorities, or earlier editions, except as specifically mentioned. The abbreviations used in these questions and answers are explained in National Parliamentarian Vol. 81, No. 2, Winter 2020, p. 24. Questions should be emailed to npquestions@nap2.org.
Adjourn vs. New Business
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Question 10: At a recent meeting of our club, the presiding officer felt that he had had enough of the meeting, and after addressing two items of new business which he had placed on the agenda, stated that he “would now entertain a motion to adjourn.” He (possibly deliberately) did not ask if there was any other new business, Startled, as said motion came so quickly from the audience, I leapt to my feet and stated emphatically: “Point of Order!” When asked what was my point of order, I stated that the chairman did not properly ask if there was any other new business as called for in the agenda. Fortunately, my plea was ruled as well taken, and we were able to continue with new business as we should have. I know that a motion to adjourn takes precedence but what else was I supposed to do? Answer: RONR (12th ed.) 41:27 states: 6. New Business. After unfinished business and general orders have been disposed of, the chair asks, “Is there any new business?” Members can then introduce new items of business, or can move to take from the table any matter that is on the table (17, 34), in the order in which they are able to obtain the floor when no question is pending, as explained in 3 and 4. So long as members are reasonably prompt in claiming the floor, the chair cannot prevent the making of legitimate motions or deprive members of the right to introduce legitimate business, by hurrying through the proceedings. You are correct that the presiding officer likely should have called for other new business. The presiding officer requested a motion to www.parliamentarians.org
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