Parliamentary Procedure

Micah Jackson 1

Parliamentary Procedure is the basic format for conducting discussions and to make the
decision making process less difficult. There is most generally seven steps in this process used
by an organization and only four steps used in smaller meetings such as committees or board
meetings.
The first in the process in the motion, where a piece of business or action is introduced.
This must be made by a group member and the second must also be made by another group
member. Next; Postpone indefinitely tactic; is used to kill a motion from the beginning. This
motion is then moved to be discussed at a later time or place. The third step is the amendment
phase where a motion is taken into further consideration and if changes are needed or suggested
these are worked out and discussed. Afterwards, if the individual who made the original motion
agrees with the changes then this motion may be voted on. Next is the commit stage. Here the
motion is placed in committee and by the time of the next meeting a prepared report is required
on the motion. If a committee does not exist then one is established for this sole purpose. The
fifth step is to question; which will immediately end a debate. By saying: I call a Question,
and afterwards is seconded. A vote is held with no further discussion. Table is used to put either
business or motions to be considered or discussed to another time or another meeting. Lastly is
to adjourn. This is used to conclude the meeting at hand. In smaller committees or board
meetings these four motions are generally used as procedure; Motion, Amend, Adopt then
Adjourn.
After reviewing the NASW Code of Ethics; I found three values to compare along
professional guidelines and Parliamentary Procedure. The first, is Dignity and Worth of a
Person. In this value Social Workers treat each individual with respect and common courtesy.
These procedures are devised to make each member socially responsible for their actions

Parliamentary Procedure

Micah Jackson 2

towards other members of the party. The second value is the Importance of Human relationships.
Within the confines of this value are the Social Workers effort to promote, restore, maintain and
enhance the well-being of persons and organizations. Here the relationships between party
members to promote community wellness is an active philosophy to strengthen the decision
making process. Lastly; Integrity. The boundaries of this value is the Social Workers awareness
on the organizations procedures in regards to how they conduct themselves honestly and
responsibly by promoting the ethical principles within the committee they are affiliated.

https://www.portlandoregon.gov/ONI/article/22969
http://www.socialworkers.org/pubs/code/code.asp