More Parliamentary Procedure Myths and Correct Actions

Here are a couple more myths about Robert's Rules of Order (things lots of people think they know, but that are wrong):

Table

This is one of the most misused motions. It should hardly ever be used. The only proper use of "Move to table" is when you're discussing a motion and an outside speaker suddenly shows up. You "table" the motion being discussed to listen to the speaker, and after he or she is finished, you "take from the table" the motion you were previously discussed.

If this is the case, how do you postpone action on something you're discussing? Simple. You "Move to postpone the current motion until the next meeting" or until a specific later time. Simple, and you don't have to confuse anyone with a motion to "table."

Is this just being picky about words? No. A motion to table is non-debatable while a motion to postpone is debatable. That makes a lot of difference when someone makes a motion to put off what you're currently discussing.

RONR, at pages 215-216

Approving agenda and minutes

Most people have seen Chairs of meetings ask for a motion to approve the agenda, then ask for all in favor and then all opposed. This is a waste of time and unnecessary.

The Chair can simply say, "Are there any suggestions for changes in the proposed agenda?" (this is assuming the agenda has been distributed)  Then, after waiting a second or two, the Chair can say, "Hearing no objections, the agenda is adopted as distributed."

Then move to the minutes. "Are there any corrections to the minutes?" Then, "Hearing none, the minutes are approved as distributed."