Discussion, or debate in parliamentary terms, is how an assembly decides whether a proposed course of action should be followed. Disagreement is healthy, and helps the organization make the best decision if discussion is approached fairly and consistently:
- Before speaking in debate, members obtain the floor as described in Parliamentary Basics – Presiding.
- The person who makes a motion may speak on it first, if he or she expresses the desire to do so.
- All remarks are addressed to the chair, not to other members.
- Debate is confined to the merits of the motion currently under consideration.
- Debate can only be closed by order of the assembly (2/3 vote), or by the chair if no one seeks the floor for further debate.
