At our last chapter meeting, the Chapter Secretary arose and read a motion to dissolve the chapter. Few chapter members were present, the motion wasn't seconded and the vote was a 5 to 5 tie. Is the question dead? Or can it be "forced" back on the floor again by the Secretary? - Ekford, Dec. 1, 1998

A: How you dissolve your group depends upon whether it is incorporated or not. If it is, you should see an attorney for the legal requirements of your state.

If it isn't, then you should follow whatever procedure your bylaws give for Amending the Bylaws (notice, vote required, etc.). Often, the following is what needs to be done for the coup de grāce (but again, check your bylaws):

1. Draw up a resolution to dissolve the chapter.
   
2. Send it out to all members with a notice that a vote will be taken at the next meeting and that it's important that they attend.
   
3. At the meeting (at which a quorum must be present), some member should move the adoption of the resolution.
   
4. Another member should second the motion.
   
5. The question of dissolution may be debated. When debate is done, take a vote.
   
6. If two-thirds of the votes cast are in favor, the President announces the result, and your chapter is immediately dissolved. Otherwise, you're still "in business," and the question cannot be renewed until the next session (including the notice, etc.).