PA DeMolay Resources -Parliamentary Procedure

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Motion to Refer

Sometimes, an item of business is introduced that needs to be further studied before the group can make a decision on it. Or, an item of business may turn out to be so detailed that it will take up too much of the groups time to "hash it out" on the floor. In these cases, it is wise to refer the matter to a committee, so that they can look into it more thoroughly, make detailed plans, and return to the larger group with a recommendation for action.

Here's how it works:

What to say:	"I move to refer the matter to committee."
May you interrupt the speaker?	No, you must wait to be recognized.
Do you need a second?	Yes.
Can the motion be debated?	Yes.
Can the motion be amended?	Yes.
What vote is needed to pass?	Majority.
Can it be reconsidered?	Yes, but only until the committee has begun their work on the subject.
Example:	MEM1: "Mr. Chairman, there seem to be a lot of details surrounding this spaghetti dinner fund raiser. Before we vote to do it, I think it should be looked at more carefully. I move we refer it to the Fund Raising Committee for study." PRES: " Is there a second?" MEM2: "Second." PRES: "Is there any discussion?" [None] "All in favor? ... Opposed? ... The motion carries. The Fund Raising Committee will look into the possiblity of a spaghetti dinner fund-raiser, and will report back to us at our next meeting."

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