PA DeMolay Resources -Parliamentary Procedure

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Move the Previous Question

Moving the Previous Question or "Calling the Question" is a motion to end debate. Once it is made and seconded, all debate on the issue at hand must stop until the Motion to Previous Question is voted upon. Voting "yes" on a Call to Question is not the same as voting yes for whatever motion is being debated. People for and against the original motion may both vote yes on a Call to Question because they agree there has been enough debate. When a Call to Question is successful, it is immediately followed by a vote on the original motion.

Here's how it works:

What to say:	"I move the previous question." or, "I call the question." or simply, "Question."
May you interrupt the speaker?	No, you must wait to be recognized.
Do you need a second?	Yes.
Can the motion be debated?	No.
Can the motion be amended?	No.
What vote is needed to pass?	Two-thirds majority.
Can it be reconsidered?	Yes, but only before the vote on the previous question begins.
How about an example?	MEM1: "I move the previous question." PRES: "There is a motion to end debate on this matter. Is there a second?" MEM2: "Second." PRES: "The motion has been made and seconded. Remember, a yes vote is a vote to end debate, not a vote in favor of the original motion. A no vote is a vote to continue debate on the original motion. A two-thirds majority will be required. All in favor of ending debate?" 21MEMS: "Aye!" PRES: "Opposed?" 9MEMS: "No!" PRES: "The 'Ayes' have it. We will now proceed to vote on the original motion. Brother Secretary, read the original motion as it now stands..."

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