A Couple More Parliamentary Procedure Myths and Accurate Information

Myth - If someone wants to amend a motion, you should ask the person who made the motion and the person who seconded it if they agree to the amendment, especially if the amendment is called a "friendly one."

Fact - There is no such thing as a "friendly" amendment. All amendments are treated the same.

Once a motion has been made and seconded, and then “stated” by the Chair, it is the “property” of the group and not one or two people. Even if the maker of the motion doesn’t like the amendment, it can still be made and if made properly must be discussed and voted on. The person who seconded a motion should never be identified, so of course he or she cannot be asked if he/she supports an amendment.
(Citation: RONR at page 162)

Myth - It is necessary to summarize the discussion in the minutes, and to include something if someone says, “Include in the minutes what I am saying.”

Fact - Not only is this not necessary, it is improper to do it. Minutes should be a record of what was done at a meeting (meaning motions), not what was said.

(Citation: RONR at page 468: “[Minutes] should contain mainly a record of what was done at the meeting, not what was said .....”)