Principles of Parliamentary Law

1. The votes of all voting members are counted equally
2. Absent members and members holding minority opinions
   have right
3. All members have the right to free debate
4. The majority has the right to decide
5. The purpose is to facilitate the transactions of business

Presiding Officer (Chair) Responsibilities

1. Correct procedure should always be your goal
2. In dealing with motions or amendments, always state
   the exact wording. Ask the secretary to read the motion or amendment if you forgot how it was phrased
3. Discussion is not in order until you have stated the motion
4. Do not enter into discussion while presiding
5. As a member of the assembly, you are entitled to vote
6. Always indicate clearly how the vote is to be taken
7. Always call for the negative vote, saying 'Those opposed
   say "Nay" '
8. Adoption of an amendment does not mean adoption of
   the main motion
9. Remember to restate the main motion as amended
10. Say 'the motion is out of order' rather than the speaker

Six Steps in Handling a Main Motion

1. A member makes a motion
2. Another member seconds the motion
3. The presiding officer (chair) places the motion before
   the group
4. The member making the motion speaks to the motion
5. The motion is opened for debate
6. The motion is put to a vote
7. The presiding officer (chair) announces the results