Understanding Objection to Consideration of a Question in Parliamentary Law

Definition & Meaning

An objection to the consideration of a question is a procedural motion in parliamentary law. This motion is used to prevent a main motion from being discussed or voted on, particularly if the motion may provoke controversy or is deemed inappropriate. Such objections are typically raised when the main motion involves sensitive topics or is considered irrelevant, unproductive, or discriminatory. By making this objection, members can avoid debating the original motion altogether.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A member of a community board proposes a motion to discuss a controversial issue regarding local zoning laws. Another member raises an objection to the consideration of this question, arguing that it could lead to heated arguments and is not relevant to the meeting's agenda.

Example 2: In a student council meeting, a proposal is made to discuss a personal matter involving a fellow student. A council member objects to the consideration of this question, stating that it is inappropriate and could be harmful to the individual involved. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Consideration of Objections
California Allows objections to be raised without debate in formal meetings.
New York Similar procedures, but may have specific rules for public bodies.
Texas Follows Robert's Rules of Order, allowing for immediate objections.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Differences
Point of Order A motion to call attention to a breach of rules. Focuses on procedural issues rather than the content of the motion.
Motion to Table A motion to postpone consideration of a motion. Allows for future discussion, while an objection suppresses it altogether.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you find yourself in a situation where you need to raise an objection to the consideration of a question, ensure you do so promptly after the main motion is presented. Familiarize yourself with the rules of order governing your meeting. If you're unsure how to proceed, consider using resources from US Legal Forms, which offer templates and guidance for handling parliamentary procedures effectively. For complex situations, seeking advice from a legal professional may be beneficial.

Quick facts

  • Type of Motion: Procedural
  • Debate Allowed: No
  • Vote Required: Simple majority
  • Context: Parliamentary procedure

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

No, objections are typically limited to motions that may provoke controversy or are deemed inappropriate.