Debating Amendments--How fast do I have to talk?

Before the proposed amendments are presented to the assembly for consideration, Rules of the Convention will be read. They will also be published in the program book. Seek them out to familiarize yourself with what they say.

All attendees at the convention reserve the right to speak to any amendment.

So, once I get to the microphone how fast do I need to talk? That depends on how much you have to say. Try to get your thoughts organized into a logical sequence so you can best present yourself as informed and not emotional. Debate is limited to two (2) minutes for each speaker. Timekeepers will be timing each speaker.

When you get to the microphone, you will need to request the proper card from the microphone monitor. (The purpose of each colored card was discussed in a previous blog). If you are speaking for an amendment, you would request a GREEN CARD—think ‘go ahead’. If you are speaking against an amendment, you would request a RED CARD—think ‘stop’.

The proposer of the amendment has the right to speak first to the amendment (a blue card). Each speaker can speak only once on a question as long as any member who has not spoken desires the floor. A speaker can speak again only at the consent of the voting body. This might happen if a question is posed to another speaker after she has spoken the first time.

Discussion on each amendment is limited to ten (10) minutes. Doing the math, you see only five (5) speakers will speak to each amendment. The presiding officer will recognize speakers at the microphone alternating pros and cons (done so by seeing the colored cards).

There are times that an amendment warrants more discussion. At that time, time for discussion may be extended. This request can be made by requesting a YELLOW CARD—think ‘wait a minute’ from the microphone monitor. This card is also used to request more information, express a point of order, or voice a parliamentary inquiry. The presiding officer, at her discretion, may also ask if we wish to extend discussion.

An important thing to remember is to pay attention to the discussion that has gone on before. The point you want to make may have already been voiced. No need to repeat it.

Knowing the rules for debate will expediate discussion and move business forward.