Parliamentary Procedure Q&A

Q:
  1. How is the type of vote ( voice, show of hands, ballot, etc.) determined?
  2. Say, a vote is to be taken by voice and a member wants it done by ballot, must this become a motion and itself be voted on?
- C.S., Feb. 5, 2000

A:

  1. The method, when not prescribed by bylaw or other rule, is up to the assembly; but it usually is determined by the presiding officer unless the assembly wants to specify it. For example, the President may believe a voice vote would work well, so she takes it by that method. If the assembly believes the voice vote was too close to call, a single member can demand a Division, which causes the vote to be retaken by rising (or, if it's a small enough group, by a show of hands).
  2. If a member wants a different method for voting, he may make such a motion and, if seconded, the assembly will decide. This decision may be made by vote or by unanimous consent.
See RONR pp. 276-80.


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