Can an approved motion be rescinded or repealed under Robert's Rules
Asked November 2026 · Answered by the AI Parliamentarian
Can an approved motion be repealed?
Rescinding or Repealing an Approved Motion
Yes, an already-adopted motion can be repealed (called Rescind in parliamentary terminology). Robert's Rules of Order provides specific procedures for this.
The Motion to Rescind
Rescind (also called Repeal or Annul) completely cancels a previously adopted motion, as if it had never been passed.
Rescind and Amend Something Previously Adopted are covered in RONR §37.
Voting Requirements
The vote required depends on the notice given:
| Situation | Vote Required |
|---|---|
| With previous notice given at a prior meeting or in the call of the meeting | Majority vote |
| Without previous notice | 2/3 vote OR majority of the entire membership |
Key Rules and Limitations
- ✅ Can be introduced at any future meeting
- ✅ Any member may make the motion
- ✅ It is debatable and amendable
- ❌ Cannot rescind something that has already been carried out (e.g., a contract already executed)
- ❌ Cannot rescind a motion that has granted a right that the recipient is relying upon
Related Motion: Amend Something Previously Adopted
If you don't want to fully cancel the motion but want to modify it, the motion to Amend Something Previously Adopted follows the same rules as Rescind (RONR §37).
Practical Tip
If the original motion was adopted at the same meeting, the correct tool is typically Reconsider (RONR §37) rather than Rescind, as Reconsider has specific timing requirements.