Legal Definitions - incidental main motion

An incidental main motion refers to a substantive proposal brought before a deliberative body that, while introducing new business (making it a "main motion"), arises unexpectedly or in response to an immediate, unforeseen circumstance during a meeting. Unlike a standard main motion that might be planned in advance and listed on an agenda, an incidental main motion addresses a matter that has incidentally come up, often related to the conduct of the meeting, the rights or privileges of members, or a specific issue requiring an immediate, formal decision that goes beyond simple procedural adjustments. It requires a vote and can be debated and amended like any other main motion.

• Example 1: Meeting Logistics

  During a lengthy city council meeting, the public address system unexpectedly malfunctions, making it impossible for the audience and some council members to hear the proceedings. A council member might propose a motion, "to suspend the current discussion and reconvene the meeting in the larger auditorium downstairs immediately, where the sound system is fully functional." This is a main motion because it proposes a substantive action (changing the meeting location and temporarily halting current business) that requires a formal vote. It is incidental because it arises directly from an unforeseen technical issue during the meeting, rather than being a pre-planned agenda item.

• Example 2: Unforeseen Opportunity

  A non-profit organization's board of directors is discussing its annual fundraising strategy. Midway through the discussion, the executive director receives an urgent email notification about a newly announced, highly relevant federal grant opportunity with a very short application window. The director then proposes a motion, "to table the current discussion on fundraising strategy and immediately form an ad-hoc committee to draft and submit an application for the 'Community Impact Grant' within the next 72 hours." This is a main motion as it introduces a new, substantive action (forming a committee and applying for a grant) that requires a decision. It is incidental because it responds to an unexpected, time-sensitive opportunity that arose during the meeting, necessitating an immediate shift in the board's focus.

• Example 3: Member Privilege or Rights

  In a university faculty senate meeting, a heated debate is underway regarding a new curriculum proposal. Several faculty members complain that the microphone system is not working properly, making it difficult for them to be heard and participate effectively. A senator, concerned about fair participation, might propose a motion, "to temporarily suspend the rule requiring all speakers to use the podium microphone for the remainder of this debate, allowing members to speak from their seats if necessary." This is a main motion because it proposes a substantive, albeit temporary, change to the rules governing debate. It is incidental because it arises directly from an immediate issue affecting the rights and ability of members to participate in the ongoing discussion, requiring a formal decision to address the unforeseen technical difficulty.