Legal Definitions - have the floor

To have the floor means to be formally recognized by the person presiding over a meeting or discussion, granting you the exclusive right to speak at that moment. This procedure is essential for maintaining order, ensuring that only one person speaks at a time, and allowing for clear, uninterrupted communication during structured discussions.

• Example 1: City Council Debate

  During a heated city council meeting discussing a new public park project, several residents wish to voice their opinions. A resident named Mr. Henderson raises his hand, and the Mayor, who is chairing the meeting, acknowledges him by saying, "Mr. Henderson, you have the floor."

  This illustrates the term because the Mayor's recognition formally grants Mr. Henderson the exclusive right to speak, allowing him to present his arguments without interruption from other attendees or council members.

• Example 2: Corporate Board Meeting

  At a quarterly board meeting for a technology company, the board is reviewing the next year's budget. Several directors want to comment on the proposed expenditures. The CEO, acting as the meeting's chair, points to Ms. Rodriguez and says, "Ms. Rodriguez, please share your thoughts on the marketing budget."

  Here, the CEO's action of pointing to Ms. Rodriguez and inviting her to speak means she now has the floor. She is the only one authorized to speak at that moment, ensuring her input is heard clearly by the rest of the board.

• Example 3: Community Town Hall

  In a community town hall meeting organized to discuss local traffic issues, a facilitator is managing the discussion. Many residents are eager to share their experiences and suggestions. The facilitator points to a woman in the front row and says, "Yes, ma'am, you have the floor."

  By giving the woman the floor, the facilitator ensures that she can articulate her concerns about traffic congestion without being spoken over, maintaining a structured and respectful environment for community input.