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Voting and Quorum
Taking votes during meetings seems simple, but sometimes groups encounter difficulties.
Who may vote?
It’s important to be clear about who has voting privileges during your meetings. If guests attend your annual meeting, and the president asks everyone in favor to say “aye,” overenthusiastic guests may add their voices to the crowd – which should not happen.
How should you vote?
Jurassic Parliament recommends that boards vote by voice whenever possible. There are times, however, when it’s necessary to ask for a show of hands or to ask people to stand up (a “rising vote”) – such as when a two-thirds vote is required for a motion to pass.Who is responsible for announcing the result?
The presider – person running the meeting – has the duty of determining whether a vote passes or fails, and announcing the result. If she has any doubt, she should take the vote again by a different method.
How can we vote by email?
Be careful! The common practice of sending out an email to board members to ask them to “vote” on a matter is usually not legitimate or authorized by state law.
What is a quorum?
A quorum is the minimum number of members entitled to vote who must be present for business to be conducted. If you lose your quorum, no more business can be done.
More information on these topics is available in our Mastery Lesson:
Voting and Quorum Issues in Nonprofit Organizations
Post your questions about voting and quorum to our blog, Robert’s Rules in Real Life.
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You Can't Vote by Email
Find out why voting by email could not and should not replace meeting as a body.
Voting and Quorum Issues in Nonprofit Organizations
Analyze issues pertaining to voting and quorum requirements to clarify and resolve problems when they arise.