Procedures in small boards

Here is more information about the changes in 11th edition of RONR. See "procedures in small boards. Page 487." Several big changes have been made. In the 10th edition it stated that in small boards one did not have to obtain the floor. In the 11th edition it states that a member “may raise a hand instead of standing when seeking to obtain the floor.” So now they are basically saying that even in small boards one must obtain the floor to speak. This will certainly keep people from interrupting one another.

The next big change is on page 488 in the first footnote. It allows the board to close and limit debate. It specifically states that these motions are in order in small boards, but qualifies the statement with “occasions where they are necessary or appropriate may be rarer than in larger assemblies.” In the 10th edition it stated that “motions to close or limit debate generally should not be entertained.” This change certainly could help expedite business where someone wants to drone on and on about a subject.

A board cannot reverse an action of the assembly

Here's our first post. Under "Boards" page 483, it clarifies a rule that has been in the last several editions. The rule is that a board cannot reverse an action of the assembly. In this edition it states that if the board does reverse an action of the assembly it is null and void. It then refers the reader to page 577. It gives an example that if the assembly adopts a budget and wants the boa...rd to be able to change it when contingencies that arise, the assembly has to empower the board to do it either by a motion or a provision in the bylaws. If the assembly doesn't give permission nor do the bylaws, then the board does not have the power to change the budget; the assembly must make the changes.

Changes to the 2011 ed. of Robert's Rules of Order: Changes to the 2011 ed. of Robert's Rules of Order...

Changes to the 2011 ed. of Robert's Rules of Order: Changes to the 2011 ed. of Robert's Rules of Order...: Changes in the 11 th Edition of RONR Here is another change that was made in the book under boards, page 486, “Conduct of Business in Boar...

Changes to the 2011 ed. of Robert's Rules of Order

Changes in the 11^th Edition of RONR

Here is another change that was made in the book under boards, page 486, “Conduct of Business in Boards.”

Now boards may adopt its own special rules of order or standing rules if they do not conflict with any rules of the society.

It now can protect itself against “breaches of order” by a member.  This means it can assess a penalty against an unruly member who may be rude to others or causing a disruption.  The book refers to pages 645—49 under discipline which gives procedures for handling such outbursts.  It then goes on to say that the maximum penalty which can be imposed on a disorderly board member is to leave the meeting room during the remainder of the meeting.