Can the chair present a motion on a 14-member board
Asked November 2026 · Answered by the AI Parliamentarian
Our board has 14 members. Can the chair present (make) a motion?
Chair Presenting a Motion
Yes, the chair can present (make) a motion, but with important procedural considerations.
The Standard Rule
Under RONR, the chair should relinquish the chair before making a motion to preserve impartiality. The presiding officer's role is to facilitate debate, not to participate in it. (RONR §43)
The Small Board Exception
This is where your board's size matters.
RONR provides a small board exception (RONR §49) for boards of not more than about 12 members, where more informal procedures apply, including:
- The chair may make motions
- The chair may participate in debate
- The chair may vote on all questions
At 14 members, your board is likely just outside the typical small board exception threshold, though this is a judgment call based on practicality.
Practical Options
| Approach | How It Works |
|---|---|
| Relinquish the chair | Chair passes gavel to vice chair temporarily, makes motion, then resumes |
| Have another member make the motion | Chair asks a member to introduce it on their behalf |
| Check your bylaws | Your bylaws may specifically address this |
Bottom Line
At 14 members, the safest and most proper procedure is for the chair to temporarily turn the gavel over to the vice chair before making a motion, then resume presiding afterward.