Parliamentary Opinions II Master Test 1

If it is found that there is no parliamentary authority, what should the parliamentarian advise the chair to do?
1. Have the meeting adopt a parliamentary authority for that meeting.
2. Use what ever rules the chair wants.
3. To use Robert's Rules of Order as that is the default.
4. Not to worry about it as the parliamentarian knows how to handle things.
If it is found that there is no parliamentary authority, what should the parliamentarian advise the chair to do?
1. Work to amend the bylaws to include a parliamentary authority.
2. To not try to change the bylaws as a parliamentary authority is not needed.
3. To replace the bylaws with new ones as this is the only way to get a parliamentary authority.
4. It is best to adopt a parliamentary authority on a short term basis only.
May a local unit have a different parliamentary authority than the national body?
1. Yes, if the national bylaws do not forbid it.
2. Yes, as it is the right of any unit to establish the rules it wants.
3. No, the local unit must follow the national in all matters.
4. No, there can not be any variance within an organization.
If a parliamentarian will only serve organizations with one parliamentary authority, should the parliamentarian study other authorities?
1. Yes, as it can enrich the performance of the parliamentarian.
2. Yes, but after the parliamentarian has become familiar with the one system.
3. No, the parliamentarian could too easily be confused.
4. No, this is never advisable.
What are some advantages of knowing more than one system of parliamentary procedure?
1. If a situation is not covered in one manual, another manual may provide help.
2. The parliamentarian will have a better understanding of common principles.
3. Comparisons of systems may help the parliamentarian.
4. There are no advantages.
If the parliamentary authority states that the current edition is automatically adopted, does the parliamentary authority automatically change when a new edition comes out?
1. There is disagreement within the parliamentary community about this.
2. Yes, it is automatic.
3. No, it is not automatic.
4. No, it should not be.
How can an organization ensure that the current edition of parliamentary authority is the one it uses?
1. By putting a clear statement of intent in the provision establishing the parliamentary authority.
2. By using RONR.
3. There is no way this can be done.
4. It is automatically done.
If the accepted parliamentary authority does not cover a situation, what is the authority of another parliamentary authority that does cover the situation?
1. It is persuasive, but it is not authoritative.
2. It may not be referred to.
3. It is authoritative and must be followed.
4. That situation cannot arise.
How should a parliamentary authority be cited in a paper?
1. Use the style appropriate to the publication the paper will be in.
2. It is usual for the full name of the author and the full title of the work to be used at least the first time.
3. If it is a legal work, use the form from A Universal System of Citation.
4. A writer should use the system most comfortable to the writer.
Which of the following is important in making a citation?
1. Use the most current citation available.
2. If there is more than one edition of the work cited, indicate the edition cited.
3. Adjust your style of citation to the country where it will be published.
4. The source cited needs to be authoritative.
What type of notice needs to be sent for an adjourned meeting?
1. None
2. The same amount as for the original meeting.
3. At least two weeks.
4. The same amount as is needed for a special meeting.
If a meeting does not have a quorum, may the members discuss issues and draft resolutions?
1. Yes. The meeting has become a private caucus and not a meeting.
2. Yes. It is very proper for an inquorate meeting to draw up resolutions that are binding on all.
3. No. The members must adjourn and leave if a quorum cannot be attained.
4. No. Resolutions can only be made by an individual or a properly established committee.
How can a society make sure that adjourned meetings are not abused?
1. By setting up rules for them that prevent abuse.
2. A society can do nothing.
3. The parliamentary authority provides protection against abuse.
4. When an adjourned meeting is called for, the chair needs to make rules that limit abuse.
If a society cannot hold a scheduled annual meeting at the time called for, what should be done?
1. A few should make it to the annual meeting on the right date and set up an adjourned meeting if feasible.
2. If it is absolutely impossible to meet, the next regular meeting should act as the annual meeting.
3. If it is unlikely that the society can meet, the board should be authorized in the bylaws to act in its place.
4. Nothing can be done.
A motion is set for a special meeting. At the meeting, can it be amended by adding an extra clause?
1. Yes, if the clause is within the scope of the original call of the meeting.
2. No, amendments cannot be made a special meetings.
3. Yes, any amendment that could be made at a regular meeting can be made at a special meeting.
4. No, as an amendment adding a clause would be outside the scope of the original motion.
If the parliamentary authority is The Standard Code, what information must be included in the notice for a special meeting?
1. The specific business to be conducted.
2. If action is to be taken, it must be specifically stated so.
3. The exact wording of the final motion.
4. The amount of time to be used for the motion.
In which work is the clearest statement of the limits of amending at a special meeting given?
1. Kerr and King
2. Sturgis
3. RONR
4. None of them are clear.
What conditions must be fulfilled to meet by telephone and conduct business?
1. The bylaws must authorize it.
2. It needs to be a teleconference.
3. All participants must be able to hear all the other participants.
4. This is never allowed.
What is an important factor for incorporated organizations in holding a meeting by telephone?
1. The state law that governs the corporation.
2. The desires of the stockholders.
3. The staff that have to be involved.
4. Incorporated organizations can never meet by telephone.
What is the problem with RONR in dealing with teleconferencing?
1. Very little information about teleconferencing is provided.
2. It only talks about individual telephone calls.
3. The rules it provide are to liberal in nature.
4. There is no problem.
What are the essential motions when two organizations are combining under RONR?
1. A resolution passed by both organizations setting up a joint committee to work out the consolidation and stating that they are to consolidate.
2. Action after the event confirming the arrangements made by the joint committee.
3. A statement by the larger organization that it is giving equal power to the smaller organization.
4. A resolution passed by both organizations concerning the funding of the combination. This must be agreed upon first.
If two societies are merging and the new bylaws are to be voted on, can they be amended?
1. Yes. This is the same as forming a new society.
2. No, they can only be voted up or down.
3. Yes but the changes must be kept within the scope of the original proposal.
4. No as this power is not granted when two groups are merging.
What can be done if a local group loses its copy of its national charter?
1. Ask the national organization to send it a new copy.
2. Ask the national organization to issue a new charter.
3. The local group may re-issue its own charter.
4. There is nothing that can be done.
If there are several vice presidents with no apparent rank, who presides in the absence of the president?
1. If one of the vice presidents has the right to succeed, that one should preside.
2. The assembly can elect from among the vice presidents if there is no way of determining who should provide.
3. The one that has served the longest as vice president presides.
4. The most recently elected vice president should preside.
Some object that the term "chairman" is sexist. What can be done?
1. The term is not actually sexist.
2. The term "convenor" can be used.
3. The term "coordinator" can be used.
4. The term "chair" is proper and effective.
Should the treasurer's report be adopted?
1. No, but adopting it does not mean that it cannot be audited.
2. Yes, this is standard procedure.
3. No because adopting it removes all responsibility from the treasurer.
4. Yes as this official was appointed by the organization.
If an assembly has authorized a limited purchase, can the person making the purchase exceed that amount?
1. No, as the authorization was limited.
2. Yes, if the terms are favorable. A judgment needs to be made.
3. Yes, the authorization is for purchase and the number is irrelevant.
4. No. Purchase cannot be authorized.
If the approval of the budget has been traditionally used by an organization as authorization to spend money, does the treasurer need extra approval to pay bills?
1. No, as this has become an accepted procedure.
2. Yes. Specific approval is always needed.
3. No as this is the recognized procedure in all organizations.
4. Yes. This is needed as budgets are just a plan.
Does the secretary have the right to make motions at a general meeting?
1. Yes, if the secretary is a member of the society.
2. Yes, the secretary can always make motions.
3. No, the secretary is on the podium so may not make motions.
4. No, the secretary is in the same position as the parliamentarian.
If the secretary of the board reports to the general meeting and the board is presenting a motion, how should the secretary finish according to Sturgis?
1. By moving the motion.
2. By asking the chair to move the motion.
3. By asking a member to move the motion.
4. By sitting down and hoping somebody moves the motion.
How many scenarios does RONR give for a report from the board being presented?
1. Five
2. Four
3. Three
4. Six
If a motion is being proposed on the recommendation of the board, when is it usually made?
1. Right after Reports of Officers.
2. During New Business.
3. Under General Orders.
4. During Reports of Officers.
After a meeting is over, is it proper for members to complain that nongermane amendments were made?
1. No. Points of order should have been raised during the meeting.
2. Yes, as this constitutes a continuing breech.
3. Yes, as only germane amendments are proper.
4. No. The rules of executive session mean that members cannot speak about a meeting later.
Which of the following are the duties of the chair during a meeting?
1. To keep members informed as to what is happening.
2. To see that the will of the assembly prevails.
3. To enforce all the rules strictly.
4. To making sure that basic rights are respected.
If a person becomes a member between the time of the original meeting and the adjourned meeting, can they vote at the adjourned meeting?
1. Yes. The rights of membership become effective as soon as a person becomes a member.
2. No, only people who were members at the original meeting can vote.
3. No, only people who were present at the original meeting can vote.
4. Yes, but only if the chair allows them to vote.
When a unanimous vote is called for, can a non-voting member object?
1. No. That would be the same as voting no which the person cannot do.
2. Yes. They are a member and a unanimous vote indicates that all the members agree.
3. Yes. This is part of the process of debate and not a real vote.
4. No. A member who does not have a vote does not have a voice.
The president stepped down from the chair to debate an issue. The issue was then postponed to later in the meeting. Should the chair preside when the issue comes up again?
1. No. The vice president should preside as they president has shown his position.
2. Yes. It is later in the meeting so the original debate is irrelevant.
3. Yes. The president should return to the chair immediately after debating.
4. No. The president cannot return to the chair for the remainder of the meeting.
The chair hears a motion, hears a second, states the motion, and then moves on to the next item. Is the motion adopted?
1. Yes, if nobody objects.
2. Yes, this is normal procedure.
3. No, as no vote has been taken.
4. No, as debate has not been called for.
A counted vote is taken and the tellers report is read, but the chair does not announce the results. Did the motion pass?
1. Yes, if the read report indicated that it passed.
2. No, the chair has to formally announce that it passed.
3. Yes, but the vote can be challenged as members can still change their vote.
4. No as the report was not officially received.
When can the chair adjourn the meeting without the consent of the assembly?
1. An emergency such as a fire occurs.
2. There is a general power failure.
3. There is an obligation for the members to be elsewhere.
4. The meeting has become disorderly.
What does it mean if a motion is rejected?
1. It has been defeated by a vote.
2. It may have been withdrawn.
3. The motion was ruled out of order.
4. The motion has been postponed indefinitely.
A motion that has two main parts is rejected by the assembly. Can one part of the motion be reintroduced in the same meeting?
1. Yes, as the original motion may have been rejected because of the other part of the motion.
2. No, as the subject has already been voted on.
3. No, as this can be done by a motion to reconsider.
4. This is up to the judgment of the chair.
A motion is passed by an assembly by an overwhelming vote. Later it is discovered that a previously approved resolution conflicts with the newly passed motion. With RONR as the authority, which motion prevails?
1. The recently passed motion as it was passed by a vote large enough to amend the previous one.
2. The original motion stands as it has not been rescinded.
3. The recently passed motion as it is the most recently passed motion.
4. The original motion as the assembly was not aware of it and may still want it.
A controversial motion is passed. In the same meeting, a group wants to amend the motion to make it less controversial. How can this be done?
1. The motion can be reconsidered.
2. Amend Something Previously Adopted can be used.
3. A simple amendment can be used.
4. A new motion can be introduced.
An amendment to the bylaws is proposed and a member moves to strike the amendment. Should the chair allow this motion?
1. No, as the same thing is accomplished by defeating the motion.
2. Yes, as this is a simple way of disposing of the amendment.
3. No as there is already a motion on the floor.
4. Yes. All the standard authorities recommend this.
A motion is made to allow amendments to be proposed but to not allow debate on them. Is this motion in order?
1. Yes. This is a modified form of Previous Question.
2. No. Debate cannot be disallowed before a motion is made.
3. Yes. Debate can always be reinstated if it is deemed necessary.
4. No. This would be forcing people to vote without information.
A society that uses Bourinot is meeting. An amendment is proposed that changes the intent of the main motion. Is this in order?
1. No as this is the one Parliamentary Authority that does not allow an amendment to change the intent of a motion.
2. Yes. This is standard.
3. No. No authority allows an amendment to change the intent of a motion.
4. Yes. As long as amendments are germane to the topic, they are allowed.
Which of the following authorities allows amendments that change the intent of the main motion?
1. RONR
2. Sturgis
3. Kerr and King
4. Bourinet
A revision of the bylaws is being considered but there is not enough time to finish consideration. The next meeting has a special speaker who will take all of the available time. What should be done?
1. The revision should be sent to a committee and notice given as to the next meeting it will be considered.
2. The revision should be postponed until the next meeting it can be considered at.
3. The revision should be postponed to the next meeting and then postponed again.
4. The revision needs to be given up on.
If an amendment to the bylaws is delayed beyond the next meeting, what is its status when it comes up?
1. It is the same as a new motion and needs proper notice.
2. It is treated as a new motion but notice is not needed as it was given before.
3. It is taken up where things were left off.
4. It is taken up where things were left off but it needs notice.
There is a motion to extend debate pending when Previous Question is moved and passed on all questions. What should be done?
1. The motion to extend debate is ignored and not voted on.
2. The motion to extend debate is voted on. If passed, debate is extended despite the Previous Question.
3. The motion to extend debate is voted on. If passed, it is ignored.
4. The motion to extend debate is not voted on. All the motions of a lower rank are considered lost.
If a main motion, a motion to amend, an amendment to the amendment, and a motion to refer are pending. How many different motions of the Previous Question are possible?
1. Four
2. One
3. Two
4. Three
If several motions of the Previous Question are pending, which is voted on first?
1. The most inclusive one.
2. The least inclusive one.
3. The one made first.
4. The one made last.
A member speaks on a motion and then makes a motion to close debate. Is this proper?
1. Yes, as long as the speaker is germane.
2. No, once a member has spoken to the question, he cannot make another motion.
3. No. The previous question cannot normally be moved.
4. Yes, but if others want to speak they get a chance to.
If a member thinks that a motion to Close Debate should not be used, what can he do?
1. Ask that the motion to close debate be withdrawn.
2. Object to passing the motion to close debate by general consent.
3. Move a question of higher privilege.
4. Call for division if a voice vote is used.
What can the chair do to ensure that the motion to close debate is not abused?
1. Inform members of exactly what motions will be covered.
2. Inform members that if the pass the motion to close debate, no more discussion or amendments to the motions are allowed.
3. Inform members that the motion to close debate is undebatable and takes a two-thirds vote.
4. Rule the motion out of order if he does not favor it.
While a motion is being voted on, a member moves to adjourn. What should be done?
1. It should be ruled out of order. Voting may not be interrupted.
2. If it is seconded, it should be ruled in order and voted on immediately.
3. It does not need a second and should be voted on immediately.
4. The meeting is immediately adjourned.
A point of order is made. While the chair is trying to decide it, a member moves that it be referred to the board of directors. Is this proper?
1. No, the point of order must be decided by the chair or the assembly.
2. No, the chair determines how the point of order is decided. Only he could send it to the board.
3. Yes, the assembly can dispose of a point of order in any way it wants.
4. Yes, this is a proper way as long as the motion is seconded.
A substitute for a substitute is pending. Can it be amended if RONR is the Parliamentary Authority?
1. No. That would be a third degree amendment which is not normally allowed..
2. Yes, the rule against a third level amendment could be suspended by a two-thirds vote.
3. No. There is no way that another level of amending would be allowed.
4. Yes, the assembly can suspend the parliamentary authority.
When can a motion Objecting to Consideration be introduced?
1. As soon as a member states the original motion, even before the chair states it.
2. Once the motion has been seconded even if the chair has not stated it.
3. Once the chair has stated the motion.
4. After the first speaker has spoken.
A member has been recognized for debate and has said fewer than ten words. Another rises to object to consideration. Is this is order?
1. No. Even though it is only a few words, debate has begun.
2. No. Objection to consideration is out of order once a member has risen to speak even if he has not spoken.
3. Yes, the first few words do not constitute debate.
4. Yes, as the right exists until the first speaker is finished.
In an organization that uses RONR, if a motion is outside of the objectives of the organization, can objection to consideration be used?
1. No, the chair should rule the original motion out of order.
2. Yes, this is one way to remove it from consideration if the chair does not recognize it as being outside of the objectives of the organization..
3. No, the original motion needs a motion to suspend the rules to be considered if the chair recognizes it as outside the objectives of the organization.
4. Yes, this is the only way to remove it from consideration.
Which of the following is true about Objection to Consideration?
1. Keesey recommends that it not be used.
2. Riddick allows it to be used even after debate has begun.
3. It takes a majority vote under Riddick.
4. Sturgis does not allow it starting with the 3rd edition of her book.
During nominations for office, can Objection to Consideration be used against a proposed candidate when RONR is the authority?
1. No, as Objection to Consideration is limited to main motions and to petitions and communications not from a superior body.
2. Yes, if it can be shown that the person should not be considered for office.
3. Yes, if the person is not qualified for the office.
4. Yes.
The Parliamentary Authority is RONR for the organization. A committee is assigned a task and then reports back with a motion. Objection to consideration is immediately moved. Is this allowed?
1. No, as the assembly has already been involved in the issue.
2. Yes, this is the first time the motion comes before the assembly.
3. Yes, debate has not yet begun on the issue.
4. No as the motion was not timely.
What amendments are allowed for consideration seriatim?
1. It can be amended as to what each segment is to consist of.
2. It can be amended to combine some sections.
3. It can be amended to exclude some sections.
4. It can be amended to limit who can debate.
A member sends a letter of resignation to the secretary. Does the letter have to be read to the assembly?
1. No, although the assembly can order it to be read.
2. Yes, it must be read to the assembly.
3. No, it cannot be read to the assembly.
4. Yes, for the resignation to be effective, it needs to be read.
Which of the following is proper if a letter of resignation has been received?
1. The chair can state that a letter of resignation has been received.
2. The chair can give a summary of the letter.
3. A motion can be made to accept the resignation or the chair can assume one.
4. The assembly can order the letter to be read.
A board consists of twenty-one members and three are absent. A motion to rescind is introduced without notice. The vote is eleven to rescind and seven against. Did it pass?
1. Yes as a majority of the entire membership voted for it.
2. Yes, a majority was attained. Notice is not required for a board.
3. No, two-thirds must be attained to rescind without notice.
4. No, notice must be given to rescind a motion.
If reconsideration is moved while another motion is pending, what are the time limits on calling it up?
1. If the body meets as often as quarterly, to the end of the next meeting.
2. If the body meets less often than quarterly, to the end of the current meeting.
3. There is no time limit.
4. Until action has been completed on the original motion.
If after much debate and some amendments, the assembly wants to return to the original motion as originally presented, what can be done?
1. Move to suspend the rules and to bring it back.
2. Nothing can be done.
3. Reconsideration of the amendments could be done but this would be very difficult.
4. Defeat the amended motion and reintroduce the original motion.
A motion was voted on by ballot. A member wants to move reconsideration of the motion. Is this permitted?
1. Yes, but the vote on reconsideration must be by ballot.
2. Yes, the normal rules and voting apply.
3. No, a ballot vote cannot be subject to reconsideration.
4. Yes, but it takes a two-thirds vote.
If the bylaws say a certain percentage of members need to be present for a quorum but limits voting for officers to a certain class of members, how is the quorum for election of officers determined?
1. The only criteria to be followed is the percentage of all classes of members.
2. The percentage is applied to the type of members who can vote.
3. The percentage is applied to the total membership and to the type of membership that can vote. It becomes a double criteria.
4. The bylaw does not apply to the election. A majority of the eligible voters is needed.
If a quorum cannot be maintained at a convention business meeting, what can be done?
1. The bylaws can be amended to provide a different basis for a quorum.
2. The bylaws can be amended to state that if a vote is taken without a quorum but the vote would be sufficient if a quorum was present, the motion is adopted.
3. Nothing can be done.
4. There is no problem as the quorum at a convention is based on delegates present.
Members are not allowed to vote if they have a conflict of interest. Are those members counted in the quorum?
1. No. Most authorities do not count members who are disqualified from voting.
2. Riddick counts them as they are disqualified only on that question.
3. Yes as they are members.
4. Yes. A voting restriction does not affect the quorum.
A society has a rule that if you miss a certain number of meetings in a row, you are removed from membership. A quorum is not attained at a regular meeting. Is that meeting counted in retaining membership?
1. Yes. The meeting was held and then adjourned. Under RONR this counts as having been held.
2. No if the meeting is not called to order. A meeting only exists once it is called to order.
3. No. No regular business could be conducted so there was no meeting.
4. Yes. The important fact is that the meeting was scheduled.
When does an official meeting exist?
1. When it is called to order under RONR.
2. When it is called to order and quorum exists under Sturgis.
3. When it is scheduled and the date arrives under RONR.
4. When it is scheduled and the date arrives under Sturgis.
If a quorum is defined as the majority of the delegates registered at the beginning of the conference and that a diminishing number of members shall not affect the quorum, what is meant?
1. The quorum remains what it was at the opening even if people leave.
2. The quorum is maintained even if people leave.
3. The quorum is based on the number of delegates registered at any one time.
4. There is always a quorum present.
The bylaws state that if a quorum is lost, the assembly can continue to discuss issues and that any decisions made must be ratified at the next meeting with a quorum. What is meant?
1. Actions taken with a quorum have no problem.
2. Actions taken without a quorum must be ratified and are only a recommendation.
3. Actions taken without a quorum are valid.
4. Discussions can continue even if no quorum is present.
Which Parliamentary Authority allows the most leniency in what can be done at meeting that lacks a quorum?
1. Kerr and King
2. RONR
3. Sturgis
4. Riddick and Butcher
A society has repeatedly found it impossible to attain a quorum. What can the society do rather than abolish itself?
1. Amend the bylaws by having both the membership present and a mail ballot vote on the change.
2. The only thing that can be done is dissolve the organization.
3. At a regular meeting the bylaws should be changed even though there is no quorum.
4. The bylaws can always be amended by a mail ballot.
What is meant is the required vote is "a majority vote of the ..."?
1. A majority of the votes cast.
2. A majority of the possible voters.
3. A majority of those entitled to vote and present.
4. The assembly needs to decide what is meant.
What is a "simple majority"?
1. Nobody knows so this term should not be used.
2. More than half.
3. Fifty-one percent of the vote.
4. A plurality.
What is an "absolute majority" in parliamentary terms?
1. Most likely, a majority of the members in a class.
2. A majority of the members in a class who vote.
3. The assembly has to decide on the meaning.
4. Fifty-one percent.
What is meant by "a majority of the members present"?
1. A majority is based on the members who are at the meeting and not on only those voting.
2. An abstention is effectively a no vote.
3. It is an easy way to get a majority vote.
4. This is just a regular majority.
What are the disadvantages of requiring a majority of the members present?
1. You must count the number of members present each time you vote.
2. An abstention has the same effect as a no vote.
3. It means that the negative side of an issue has an unfair advantage.
4. A majority is easier to obtain.
The bylaws require that an issue be decided by a majority of the members present. Does the negative vote have to be taken?
1. No, if the vote is by a serpentine vote.
2. Yes, if the vote is by ballot or roll call.
3. Yes, no matter how the vote is taken.
4. No, as long as the chair knows the number of members present.
The vote required is a majority of the members present. The chair decides not to take the negative vote. A member objects and wants the negative taken. What should the chair do?
1. Even though it is not required, it should be taken.
2. The chair should not take the vote.
3. The chair should take the vote only if it will not take much time.
4. The negative vote cannot be taken.
A two-thirds vote is required according to the bylaws. What is meant by two-thirds?
1. The affirmative vote must be at least twice the negative vote.
2. The affirmative vote must be twice the negative vote and the abstentions.
3. At least two-thirds of the members must vote.
4. At least two-thirds of the members present must vote.
The voting requirement in the bylaws is 51 percent. The vote is 101 to 100. Does the measure pass?
1. No. This is less than 51%.
2. Yes. The bylaw can be taken to mean a majority vote and this is a majority vote.
3. The assembly will have to interpret what is meant by the bylaw. The issue may have passed.
4. Yes. The percentage is rounded up to the next full percentage. Thus the 51% level is reached.
The bylaws require a four-fifths vote of the board for suspension. What is meant by that?
1. Four-fifths of those voting is necessary.
2. Four-fifths of those present must vote in favor.
3. Four-fifths of the entire membership of the board must vote for it.
4. Four-fifths of the members of the board must vote.
What happens when there is a tie vote?
1. The motion is lost.
2. The motion passes.
3. There is a revote until the motion either clearly passes or fails.
4. The chair is required to vote to break the tie.
The bylaws state that the president may vote only to make or break a tie. When may the president vote?
1. When there are five for and five against a motion.
2. When six vote for a measure and five vote against it.
3. When a measure needs a two-thirds vote and the vote is six for it and three against.
4. When a measure needs a two-thirds vote and the vote is five for it and three against.
The bylaws state that the president may vote to break a tie. Can the president vote to create a tie?
1. No. The bylaws are specific.
2. Yes. The president cannot lose his right to vote.
3. No. The president can never vote.
4. Yes. Voting to make a tie is the same as voting to break one.
An organization hires an outside chair. There is no special provisions in the bylaws about the rights of this non-member. If there is a tie vote, can the president vote to break the tie?
1. No. Non-members can only vote if the bylaws say they can.
2. No. The president is never allowed to vote as this shows a preference.
3. Yes. This is one of the duties of the president.
4. Yes. By being president, the person has become a member of the organization.
If there is a tie in the US Senate, can the Vice President vote in the negative?
1. Yes. The US Constitution provides that the Vice President can vote whenever the Senate is tied.
2. No. The Vice President can only vote to break the tie by voting in the affirmative.
3. No. The Vice President may never vote.
4. Yes. The Vice President can also vote to create a tie.
In most assemblies, what is the voting rights of the presiding officer if a member?
1. They are the same as any other member but normally are not exercised unless they make a difference or the vote is by ballot or roll call.
2. They are altered by holding the office. The vote can only be exercised if there is a tie.
3. They are altered. They can only be exercised if there is a ballot or roll call vote.
4. The rights are the same and are exercised in the same way as not being a presiding officer.
What is the correct order for taking a vote?
1. The affirmative vote and then the negative vote.
2. The affirmative vote, the negative vote, and the abstentions.
3. The negative vote and then the affirmative vote.
4. The negative vote, the affirmative vote, and then the abstentions.
If the vote is by a show of hands and abstentions are called for, what can a member who wishes to abstain do?
1. The member can refuse to indicate that he is abstaining.
2. Every member must raise their hand for one of the choices.
3. If the member wishes to abstain, he must indicate so.
4. No member can indicate that he is abstaining.
When can a member no longer change their vote on a counted vote under RONR?
1. When the chair says the motion is adopted or lost.
2. Once the chair has begun to give the count.
3. Once the chair begins to speak.
4. Until the chair starts the next item of business.
In a small group, can a vote be verified by a show of hands?
1. Yes, as in a small group it is easy to see what the count is.
2. No. To verify a vote it is necessary to conduct a proper count.
3. Yes. A show of hands can always be used to verify a voice vote.
4. No, unless it is a really small group.
A provision takes a two-thirds vote. The chair does not count the vote and declares it adopted. When can a member make a point of order?
1. At the time of the vote.
2. At the next meeting.
3. At any future meeting.
4. No point of order can be made.
If a member wants to raise a point of order about a vote, when can it be done?
1. When the taking of the vote is done but before the results are announced.
2. After the vote for the affirmative has been taken but before the negative has been taken.
3. When the results of the vote have been announced.
4. Before the vote has been taken.
If a group has adopted a reprint of the 1896 edition of Robert's Rules of Order, if there are no nominees but the slate, can the secretary cast a single vote for all and end the election?
1. Yes, if there is unanimous consent to the procedure.
2. No, this procedure is never allowed.
3. Yes, the chair is required to do this.
4. No. The members always have the right to cast write in votes.
Because of schedules, a group that needs a vote of two-thirds of the members to vote for an amendment to the bylaws cannot get a large enough vote. What can be done?
1. At a quorate meeting, the group can order a recess for balloting long enough for all to get to the ballot box including those who cannot attend the actual meeting.
2. The rules can be suspended if it is absolutely impossible to get the necessary number to the meeting.
3. A mail ballot can be used.
4. There is nothing that can be done.
The vote is by ballot. A member changes his mind and wants to change his vote. Is it possible?
1. No, as there is no way to identify the ballot.
2. No. Once a vote has been made, no changes are allowed.
3. Yes, it is a basic right of a member to change his vote until the results have been announced.
4. Yes. The vote is not final.
The bylaws state that the secretary can cast the ballot if there is only one candidate. Is this a good idea?
1. No, as it often leads to misunderstanding.
2. Yes, as this speeds up the process.
3. No. This process denies the membership the right of writing in a candidate.
4. Yes. The alternative of having an elaborate vote takes up time and money.
In a ballot vote that requires a two-thirds vote, there is an illegal ballot. Can this affect the results?
1. If RONR is the parliamentary authority, it can. RONR counts both legal and illegal ballots in determining the results.
2. If Sturgis is the parliamentary authority, it does not. Only legal ballots are counted.
3. The assembly is going to have to determine what is counted.
4. The person who cast the illegal ballot should be asked to correct it.
If three ballots cast are blank, what effect do they have on the election?
1. If Sturgis is the parliamentary authority, if the votes could affect the election, they are counted.
2. If RONR is the parliamentary authority, they have no affect on the election.
3. If Sturgis is the parliamentary authority, they have no affect on the election.
4. Blank ballots never have an effect on an election.
A roll call vote is called for after a counted rising vote. Is this proper?
1. Yes, the membership has a right to order one.
2. No, once a vote is verified by a counted rising vote, nothing more can be done.
3. No, there can only be one type of counted vote used.
4. Yes, if one member requests it, it must be held.
The bylaws require that a ballot be conducted by mail. Who decides the form of the ballot?
1. The board of directors.
2. The nominating committee.
3. The bylaws committee.
4. The president.
Voting is by mail with a signed ballot. Can a member change his vote?
1. Yes, as long as it is done before the deadline.
2. Yes, even after the votes have been counted and reported.
3. No, once a vote is submitted it is final.
4. No, as this would be exposing the vote to more than just the staff.
The bylaws of a society are silent about a mail ballot and proxies. The bylaws require a majority vote of the entire membership to pass the budget. May a mail ballot or proxy voting be used?
1. Neither may be used as they are not provided for in the bylaws.
2. Neither can be used unless some higher rule, such as a statute, allows them
3. A mail ballot can be used but proxies cannot be used.
4. Proxies can be used but a mail ballot is not permitted.
What is cumulative voting?
1. Each member is given a certain number of votes that they can cast for from one to the maximum number of positions to be elected.
2. It is a system where one candidate who is elected can give his extra votes to another candidate.
3. It is a system where a member with more than one vote can limit the number of candidate he votes for. But he can only give one vote to any one candidate.
4. It is the same as regular voting.
Where is cumulative voting used?
1. Stock corporations often use it.
2. AIP has used it.
3. The US Government uses it.
4. Political parties use it at their conventions.
What is a Texas ballot?
1. Voting for those who are not to be elected.
2. Setting a criterion of a minimum number of votes to be elected. All who receive more than that are elected.
3. Voting for candidates in a group fashion.
4. Being required to vote for candidates in different areas such as from different caucuses.
The bylaws do not allow for proxies. Some of the members find it necessary to leave before an important issue is voted on. Can they leave proxies concerning that issue?
1. No. This would mean that the bylaws and/or the parliamentary authority would have to be suspended and these are not allowed.
2. Yes. It is important to serve the needs of the members.
3. Yes. This is a commonly followed procedure. The membership has the right to suspend rules that do not fit the current needs.
4. No. Proxies can never be used even if the bylaws allow for them.
What is Keesey's position on proxies?
1. They are not allowed unless stated so in the bylaws.
2. They should not be allowed as voters need to be present.
3. Proxies, when allowed, permit greater participation by members.
4. Proxies are allowed.
If proxies are allowed according to the bylaws, can proxies be used on secondary motions?
1. Yes. If there are no stated limitations, proxies can be used on all motions.
2. No. Proxies are limited to items that are known about ahead of time.
3. No. Secondary motions are not important enough to have proxies used.
4. Yes as long as the person writing the proxy states so.
If there is confusion year after year about the bylaw provision for proxies, what can be done?
1. Information can be published regularly about it.
2. When appropriate, the bylaw governing it can be given to each member.
3. If the bylaw is confusing then it should not be applied.
4. There is nothing that can be done.
Is it permissible for the author of a proxy to write a limitation into it?
1. Yes, this is perfectly acceptable.
2. Yes, this is a requirement.
3. No, this may not be done.
4. No, this may not be done unless the assembly gives permission.
The bylaws call for the membership to elect a nominating committee. A member moves that the members of the executive committee be elected as the nominating committee. The president is on the executive committee. Is this motion to elect the executive committee as the nominating committee proper?
1. Yes, if all the members of the executive committee are otherwise eligible to be on the nominating committee.
2. Yes, but it is not recommended as you have only the officers nominating people to be officers.
3. No. In particular, the president cannot be on the nominating committee.
4. No. Members of one committee cannot be elected to another committee.
The bylaws call for the election of a nominating committee. A member moves that the Executive Committee serve as the nominating committee. Is this proper?
1. No. One committee's job cannot be assigned to another committee.
2. Yes. It is proper to elect the Executive
  Committee as the nominating committee.
3. No as the president is on the Executive Committee.
4. Yes. This is a commonly used procedure.
What should an organization do if it has trouble getting people to serve on the nominating committee?
1. Announce the formation of the nominating committee well in advance.
2. Distribute the bylaw provisions about the nominating committee.
3. Placement of nominations early in the meeting so that problems can be solved.
4. Amend the bylaws to correct problems that arrive.
What should an organization do if the same people keep getting elected to the nominating committee?
1. Nothing if the organization is happy with this.
2. Term limits on serving on the nominating committee will insure a change of membership.
3. Offering more candidates at the time of election may help.
4. A member may never serve more than one term on the nominating committee.
Is it a good idea to have the president-elect serving on the nominating committee?
1. No. This is the same as the president serving on the committee.
2. Yes. This is a very good role for the future leader of the organization.
3. No. The nominating committee should not have any officers serving on it.
4. Yes, most parliamentary authorities require the president-elect to serve on the committee.
If some of the members of the nominating committee do not agree with the final report, what can they do?
1. They may refuse to sign the final report.
2. They can prepare a minority report.
3. They may make their own nominations from the floor.
4. Disagreement is not permitted.
The nominating committee presents a report that says that it does not support one of the candidates it is nominating. Is this proper?
1. No as by nominating the candidate, it supported that candidate.
2. Yes. The nominating committee has the right to comment on candidates.
3. No. The report can only list the candidates.
4. Yes. The nominating committee is required to comment on candidates.
The nominating committee submits a report with all members signing the report. Can individual members of the committee make other nominations during nominations from the floor?
1. Yes. They retain their rights as members.
2. No. By agreeing with the report, the individual members have used up their nominating rights.
3. Yes. Just because a nominating report has been submitted does not mean that people are nominated.
4. No. Nominations from the floor are for members who were not on the committee.
Should a member who does not agree with the nominating report sign it?
1. Yes. This serves as an indication that this is the actual report.
2. No if the member strongly disagree with the report.
3. Yes. He can add a qualification to his signature.
4. No as the signature would end the member's right to make nominations.
A ballot has ended in a tie. Ballots are being passed out for the second round of voting. A member wants to debate the qualifications of the candidates. Is this proper?
1. No as the voting process is going on.
2. No but the assembly can move to reopen nominations as long as no ballots have been cast in the second round.
3. Yes especially if the bylaws call for seconding speeches.
4. Yes as this is a basic right of the members.
If controversial issues are to come before an assembly, what should be done about tellers?
1. An adequate number should be appointed.
2. There should be separate tellers for rising votes and ballot votes.
3. Any elections should be held early in the sessions.
4. There should be a separate chair of the tellers to run things.
Before an election, the president declared all offices vacant. Is this proper?
1. No, unless the bylaws give the president such an authority.
2. No, it is not necessary or common to declare the offices vacant before an election.
3. Yes as only vacant offices can be filled by an election.
4. No as offices are automatically vacant before the election.
The term of office is "... or until the successor is elected." The person elected to one office declines the office. Is the office vacant?
1. No, the old holder of the office remains until somebody else is in the office.
2. No, the member may not decline the office.
3. Yes. A person was elected and then resigned.
4. Yes. Once the election started the office was vacant.
At a special meeting, an officer is removed from office. Can the assembly then fill the vacant office?
1. No unless the election was specifically mentioned in the call of the meeting.
2. No. Only the board can fill a vacant post between elections.
3. Yes as the election was implied by the call stating that the meeting was about disciplining an officer
4. Yes. Any meeting can fill any vacant office.
At a general meeting, an office is vacant. The bylaws state that the board fills vacant offices. Can the general meeting fill the office?
1. No. The bylaws are specific as to who fills vacant offices.
2. Yes as a general meeting always has authority over the board.
3. Yes. When an office is vacant it must be filled immediately.
4. No. It takes notice to fill an office.
If an election is found to be invalid and the terms of office were a fixed term, who presides?
1. It is probably best to have the old presiding officer preside.
2. The assembly has the right to elect a presiding officer.
3. The candidate who was elected at the invalid meeting should preside.
4. There is no presiding officer. The Parliamentarian runs things.
The bylaws state that the secretary can be instructed to cast the single vote in an election if there is only one candidate. What vote is needed to so instruct the secretary?
1. A unanimous vote is needed. If even one person votes against the motion, the secretary cannot cast the single vote.
2. A majority vote is needed. The principle is a majority vote.
3. A two-thirds vote as the members are giving up a basic right.
4. This cannot be done even if it is in the bylaws.
The bylaws require that the election of officers be held at a certain meeting with notice given twenty days before. If the notice requirement is not met, is the election valid?
1. No. The requirement of notice must be met. The elections should be held at the next meeting that notice can be given before.
2. No. The elections must be delayed a full year as they are required to be held at a certain meeting.
3. Yes. The requirement of the certain meeting takes precedence over the notice.
4. Yes. An election is an election.
The officers were elected by a plurality and not a majority. Can the election be challenged and for how long?
1. Yes, it can be challenged at any time as this is a continuing breach.
2. Yes, it can be challenged but it must be done at the meeting where the election was held.
3. No. Once officers take office, they cannot be challenged.
4. No. Plurality elections are perfectly valid.
A director is removed using the organizations disciplinary procedures. In the election to fill the spot, the removed director wins. Is this proper?
1. Yes, as long as the person fulfills the requirements for being elected.
2. Yes. Discipline is limited to removal from office and cannot touch who can be elected.
3. No. Once removed, a person cannot be elected to the same office.
4. No. A removed director must sit out one election before being eligible for office.
The board of directors elects the chairman from its members. If the chairman resigns from the board but not his chairmanship, is this proper?
1. No as a condition of being chairman is being a member.
2. No as members of the board cannot resign.
3. Yes as this allows the election or appointment of a member who supports the chair.
4. Yes as the chair has no voice so the proper number of members have voice.
A candidate for office is elected by a majority vote. After the meeting, it is found that the member is not eligible for that office. What should be done?
1. A new election following all the rules needs to be held.
2. The person who came in second is elected and takes over.
3. The person who came in second should be appointed to the office and this should be ratified at the next meeting.
4. The process the organization uses for a resignation should be used.
The president resigns from office. The first vice president has not served the minimum number of years on the board to be president. What should be done?
1. The second vice president, if qualified, becomes president.
2. The need of the organization is more important than having served a minimum number of years.
3. The second vice president becomes president until the first vice president is qualified to hold the office of president.
4. A special election must be held due to the confusion.
The president appoints all committee chairs according to the bylaws. However, the president is seriously ill and will not be available for a long period of time. What can be done?
1. The assembly can appoint the chairs.
2. The vice president can appoint the chairs.
3. The current chairs continue in office and none may resign.
4. The committees must become inactive until the president is able to make appointments.
Can an organization provide for the life-time appoint of a director in its bylaws.
1. Yes, this is permissible but not advisable.
2. Yes, this is an excellent way to provide for continuity
3. No, directors must be re-elected periodically.
4. No. No Parliamentary Authority permits this.
Which of the following is a proper role for a parliamentarian?
1. Advising the chair
2. Preparing scripts when needed
3. Teaching classes on procedure
4. Coaching members about procedures
Which of the following is a proper role for a parliamentarian?
1. Consultant on the bylaws
2. Consultant on the rules of order
3. Trouble shooter for boards and committees
4. Presiding officer
The parliamentarian arrives early for a meeting but the chair is not available. What can the parliamentarian do to make good use of the time?
1. The parliamentarian can go over material from the convention office or from registration.
2. The parliamentarian can talk to the staff.
3. The parliamentarian can check out the meeting room to make sure it is ready.
4. There is nothing the parliamentarian should do.
A member criticizes the earlier action of the parliamentarian. What should the chair do?
1. Move on with business.
2. Defend the parliamentarian.
3. Remove the parliamentarian.
4. Tell the member that he needs to prefer charges.
During the meeting, the parliamentarian calls the attention of the chair to a serious breach. The chair is not happy about this. Was the parliamentarian correct?
1. Yes, that is the duty of the parliamentarian as long as it is done quietly.
2. Yes, the parliamentarian should bring it to the attention of the entire assembly.
3. No, the parliamentarian only advises when asked to.
4. No, nobody can interrupt the chair.
Is the chair ever allowed to directly address the assembly?
1. Yes, if the chair requests it.
2. Yes, if a member, going through the chair, requests it.
3. No, this is not allowed.
4. No, it should be discouraged.
A parliamentarian is hired for the annual meeting but the chair makes no use of her. Can the parliamentarian say something during the meeting?
1. No, the parliamentarian is there to advise the chair and cannot address the assembly without permission.
2. No as it is up to the chair whether to make use of the parliamentarian or not.
3. Yes, the parliamentarian was hired and so should say something to the assembly.
4. Yes. It is the parliamentarian's duty to say something.
Against the advise of the parliamentarian, the assembly violates the Charter of the organization. What should the parliamentarian do?
1. Write a letter to the organization restating what was wrong and why.
2. Keep a record of the violation and the advice given
3. Contact the proper agency of the government about the violation.
4. Put a notice in the newspaper about the problem.
Is it proper for a parliamentarian to serve a faction?
1. Yes, it is proper although the parliamentarian needs to remain objective.
2. No, a parliamentarian must remain neutral and serve all in the organization.
3. Yes, although the parliamentarian must make sure that it is a faction that agrees with his ideas.
4. No as only the whole organization can hire a parliamentarian.
A parliamentarian agreed to answer certain questions for a set fee. However, the situation escalated. How should the parliamentarian handle this?
1. The parliamentarian should complete the original work at the original fee.
2. The parliamentarian should keep careful records of his work.
3. If future work is indicated, it would be wise to put it on an hourly basis.
4. The parliamentarian should fully rework the original agreement.
An officer of a local organization is preparing her report. Should she include what she did for the national organization and the community?
1. Only if they are relevant to the report such as she was the representative of the local.
2. Any work with the national organization should be included.
3. Since the organization is local, community service is important.
4. Everything possible should be included in the report.
For a meeting in the past, two different sets of minutes were found -- one in the Secretary's records and one in the President's records. Which one should be followed?
1. The one in the secretary's records should be looked upon as official.
2. The one in the president's records should be looked upon as official.
3. Both should be studied and only areas that agree can be considered official.
4. Since two versions exist, neither should be considered as official.
What is meant by "-- recording of rejected motions that do not need to be recorded"?
1. The motion to lay on the table that was rejected.
2. A privileged motion that was rejected.
3. An amendment that was defeated.
4. A main motion that was rejected.
At each meeting the president tells about correspondence he has received and what he has done with it. How does the secretary record this in the minutes?
1. This is part of the president's report. How much detail is in the minutes is up to the secretary.
2. All of the important correspondence is copied into the minutes.
3. This has nothing to do with the business of the meeting and is not reported in the minutes.
4. All of the correspondence is put into the minutes.
When a body is correcting the minutes, what should be considered?
1. Correction of basic facts, grammar, or action taken.
2. Striking out embarrassing material not needed.
3. Addition of information to cover omissions.
4. Modification to give an accurate picture.
If the minutes are mailed in advance, do they need to be read at the meeting?
1. No, but they can be amended.
2. No. Only the mailed out minutes can be approved.
3. Yes, the reading still needs to be done as not all will have received the mailed version.
4. Yes, reading is still required.
A motion is made and Objection to Consideration is made and passed. What is recorded in the minutes?
1. The main motion and the fact that it was disposed of by Objection to Consideration.
2. The main motion is not mentioned at all.
3. The main motion is mentioned as being disposed of.
4. Objection to Consideration is mentioned.
A new secretary takes over at the end of the meeting. Who takes care of the minutes?
1. The old secretary writes up the minutes and the new secretary presents them at the next meeting.
2. The old secretary writes up the minutes and presents them at the next meeting.
3. The new secretary writes up the minutes and presents them at the next meeting.
4. The new secretary writes up the minutes and the old secretary presents them at the next meeting.
Is there a difference between approving minutes and verifying them?
1. Under modern practice, there is no difference.
2. Verifying them involves showing they are accurate which is different from approving them.
3. They are two separate processes that take place at different meetings.
4. They have always been the same thing.
A motion that took a majority of the entire membership was declared passed by a majority vote. The error was discovered after the meeting. What should be done?
1. The chair should declare that the motion was not passed at the next meeting.
2. There is nothing that can be done.
3. The motion needs to be rescinded at the next meeting.
4. Nothing needs to be done or said as it is automatically void.
Are the results of a mail vote recorded in the minutes?
1. Yes, in the minutes of the meeting at which the results are reported.
2. No, as the vote was taken outside of a meeting.
3. Yes, the results go in the minutes of the meeting that ordered the mail vote.
4. No. The results are only announced in the publication of the organization.
Do members who were not present at a meeting have a right to vote on the minutes of that meeting?
1. Yes, any member may vote on the minutes and amendments to them.
2. Yes, they may vote on the minutes but not on amendments to them.
3. No, as they do not have basic knowledge about them.
4. No, as the minutes are actually a continuation of the previous meeting.
A society has traditionally approved the minutes of the annual meeting at the next annual meeting. This year they switched to having a committee appointed to approve them. Do the minutes need to be read at the next annual meeting?
1. No. The minutes have been properly disposed of. Corrections can be made by the two-thirds vote.
2. No. The minutes have been properly disposed of. Corrections can no longer be made.
3. Yes. A one time change does not affect tradition.
4. Yes. Approval by committee does not remove the reading of the minutes at the next meeting.
A member who was not present at a board meeting moved to approve the minutes of that meeting. Is that proper?
1. Yes although it might be preferred to have a member who was present to make the motion.
2. Yes, only a member who was not present may so move.
3. No, you must be present at the original meeting to make such a motion.
4. No, only the secretary can make such a motion.
A society does not meet for about five months over the summer. What can be done about the minutes for the meeting before the break?
1. The board may be appointed to approve the minutes.
2. The society can wait until the next meeting if it so decides.
3. A committee can be appointed to approve the minutes.
4. Nothing can be done.
The secretary left the organization without turning over the minutes. What should be done?
1. Every effort must be made to recover the minutes.
2. If the minutes cannot be recovered, they need to be recreated.
3. The old minutes are not important so nothing needs to be done.
4. The minutes must be returned or the organization ceases to exist.
What is the correct title for the president when he presides over the board of directors?
1. The bylaws need to be looked at to see if there is some specific title mentioned in them.
2. The basic rules of courtesy need to be followed.
3. Custom can prevail in this issue.
4. Only the term president can be used.
Should past presidents be made ex-officio members of the board of directors?
1. No. The issue of the size of quorum can cause problems.
2. No. This puts a heavy strain on new officers taking a different tact in things.
3. Yes. The former elected officers have a wealth of information.
4. Yes, they continue to have the support of the society.
Should the immediate past president be a member of the board of directors?
1. No. There can be tremendous problems with this practice.
2. No. Officers are elected to specific terms and that should be all.
3. Yes as this provides continuity.
4. Yes as this is the natural way things are done.
The immediate past president is a member of the board. He resigns for some reason. The board has the power to fill empty positions. What can the board do in this case?
1. Nothing as there is no longer an immediate past president.
2. They can appoint the person who was president before the one who resigned.
3. They can choose from any of the former presidents to fill the position.
4. The current president must resign and assume the post of immediate past president.
The immediate past president is an ex officio member of the board but does not have a vote. He is not required to attend meetings. What does this mean?
1. The immediate past president can attend all board meetings including executive sessions.
2. The immediate past president is not counted in the quorum.
3. The immediate past president is not entitled to attend meetings meeting in executive session.
4. The immediate past president can make motions.
The board wants to amend the standing rules of the organization. The bylaws only say that the board runs things between meetings. Can the board amend the standing rules?
1. No. They can suspend them for one meeting but only the assembly can amend them.
2. No but they can suspend them indefinitely.
3. Yes. The board has full power as they are running things between meetings.
4. Yes. The changes can be changed back at the next general meeting.
If a board consists only of non-members of an organization, can the board propose amendments to the bylaws?
1. No as they are not members of the organization.
2. Yes, if the bylaws give them the power to do that.
3. No, but they can recommend that the bylaws be changed in specific ways.
4. Yes, that is a normal function of the board.
The board has the power to elect its officers. Can the board assign this task to the Executive Committee?
1. No, this is a task specifically assigned to them.
2. No, they can only assign this task to the general membership.
3. Yes, as the board has the right to give committees power to do things.
4. Yes, this is normal practice.
It is found that the president can no longer hold the office and the bylaws state that he is no longer an officer. The president says that he is going to preside anyway. What can be done?
1. Call a special meeting of the board before the next meeting to handle this situation.
2. Arrive at the meeting and refuse to recognize the former president as the chair of the meeting.
3. Send notice to all the members about this situation.
4. Appeal to the membership at the annual meeting.
It is found that the president can no longer hold the office and the bylaws state that he is no longer an officer. The president says that he is going to preside anyway. What can be done?
1. Request help from the parent organization if there is one.
2. Prepare charges.
3. Contact an attorney and take legal action.
4. Drag the member out of the chair.
Only one member of the board is a member of a committee that has a recommendation for the board. Does the member have to support the recommendations of the committee at the board meeting?
1. No, the member can speak against the motion.
2. No. It would be best to have another member of the board move the motion from the committee.
3. Yes, the member must speak only in favor of the motion.
4. Yes, as the member has to make the report for the committee.
Both the charter and the bylaws say that the board runs the organization. Can the bylaws be amended to remove the board from this function?
1. No as the charter calls for the board to run the organization.
2. Yes as the bylaws are the highest authority.
3. No. The bylaws cannot be amended under any circumstances.
4. Yes if the charter is also properly amended.
The bylaws name one officer as chairman of a standing committee. The officer is not going to have the time to chair this committee for a period of time. What should be done?
1. The committee members should be named according to standard procedures.
2. The committee can elect a temporary chair on a meeting by meeting basis.
3. The committee can elect a temporary chair for the period.
4. The officer can name his replacement.
A temporary committee has a vacancy. The president has the power to appoint committee members. There has been a new president installed. Who makes the appointment?
1. The current president makes the appointment.
2. The president who first appointed the committee makes the appointment.
3. The position cannot be filled.
4. The assembly decides who makes the appointment.
A committee consists of 15 appointed members. The president is an ex-officio member of all committees. The bylaws require a majority of the entire membership to pass anything. What is the minimum vote to pass anything according to RONR?
1. Nine members must vote in favor of an item.
2. One vote more than the negative vote.
3. A majority of those in attendance at the meeting.
4. Eight members must vote in favor of an item.
A committee consists of 15 appointed members. The president is an ex-officio member of all committees. The bylaws require a majority of the entire membership to pass anything. What is the minimum vote to pass anything according to The Standard Code?
1. Nine members must vote in favor of an item.
2. One vote more than the negative vote.
3. A majority of those in attendance at the meeting.
4. Eight members must vote in favor of an item.
A committee consists of 15 appointed members. The president is an ex-officio member of all committees. The bylaws require a majority of the entire membership to pass anything. What is the minimum vote to pass anything according to Riddick?
1. Nine members must vote in favor of an item.
2. One vote more than the negative vote.
3. A majority of those in attendance at the meeting.
4. Eight members must vote in favor of an item.
The president-elect is listed in the bylaws as being an ex-officio member of certain committees. Can the board make the president-elect an ex-officio member of other committees?
1. No as the bylaws are specific about what committees the president-elect is an ex-officio member of.
2. Yes if the bylaws state that such appointments are possible.
3. No. The president-elect can not be the ex-officio member of any committee even if it is in the bylaws.
4. Yes, the board is free to make any appointments that it deems advisable.
The president-elect is listed in the bylaws as being an ex-officio member of certain committees. Can the board make the president-elect an ex-officio member of other committees?
1. Yes, if these committees are not listed in the bylaws.
2. No, especially if these committees are not listed in the bylaws.
3. Yes, as the board is free to do what it wants.
4. No as the limitation placed in the bylaws governs all cases.
According to RONR, what should be included in the reports of committees?
1. The name of the committee.
2. The assignment or responsibility of the committee.
3. The names of the members.
4. The dates of meetings.
According to RONR, what should be included in the reports of committees?
1. The progress of the committee.
2. Recommendations of the committee.
3. Motions needed to implement recommendations.
4. The signatures of the members agreeing or the signature of the chair.
At an annual meeting, the custom is for the chairmen of the standing committees to move they be received. Is this proper?
1. No, this means any proposal made in the reports would be accepted.
2. No, as the reports have already been received.
3. Yes, this is a simple way to adopt the motions.
4. Yes, the reports need to be voted on.
The president, using the power given to him in the bylaws, appoints a committee of one. If the committee brings back a recommendation, does the recommendation need a second?
1. Yes, as this is a committee of only one.
2. No, as this is a proper committee so no second is needed.
3. Yes, as the chair cannot appoint a committee of one.
4. No, no motion can come from a committee of one.
The bylaws committee is ordered to reports certain changes to the annual session but nobody wants to do it. Who can do this?
1. The chair can assume the motion.
2. The committee chair must make the motions.
3. The motions cannot go forward.
4. The board makes the motions.
Which of the following happen when an assembly goes into Committee of the Whole?
1. The regular chair steps down and another takes the chair.
2. The entire membership is on the committee.
3. A member can speak as often as she wants.
4. Only a limited number of motions can be made.
Which of the following happen when an assembly goes into Committee of the Whole?
1. No final decisions can be made.
2. When done, the committee rises and reports to the assembly.
3. Final decisions are made by the assembly with the regular chair presiding.
4. Members can only speak once on the issue.
Which of the following are good cases to use Committee of the Whole?
1. For discussing confidential matters.
2. To discuss things informally.
3. To make sure the debate is not recorded.
4. To make sure only the conclusion is recorded.
Which of the following are good cases to use Committee of the Whole?
1. To take a preliminary reading of what people want.
2. To ensure full discussion of a matter.
3. To avoid postponing motions.
4. To gather ideas to make the final resolution.

Parliamentary Opinions II Master Test 1

An exam to test your knowledge of Parliamentary Opinions II which is based on the Opinions Column in the Parliamentary Journal published by the American Institute of Parliamentarians.