Which term describes the initial formal proposal in a meeting to present new business?

• A. Amendment
• B. Point of order
• C. Main motion
• D. Adjourn

Answer: (C)

When you’re bringing up something new for the group to consider, you’re making a main motion. It’s the formal proposal that starts discussion of new business in the meeting. Once someone has a motion, it typically needs a second from another member, then it’s open for discussion and possible amendments, and finally a vote decides its fate. The motion that initiates new business is considered the main item on the agenda, and any changes to it are handled through amendments to that motion.

An amendment would be a change to this initial proposal, not the station that starts the discussion. A point of order is used to call attention to a procedural issue or rule, and adjourn is what ends the meeting.