Legal Definitions - original main motion

An original main motion is a formal proposal brought before a deliberative body, such as a committee, board, or association, for the very first time during a meeting. Its purpose is to introduce a new subject or idea for discussion and decision by the group. It is considered "original" because it does not relate to or modify any existing motion or item of business already under consideration. Instead, it presents a fresh topic that requires the group to take a specific action or express an opinion.

Here are some examples to illustrate this concept:

• Example 1: Community Association Meeting

  During a neighborhood association meeting, a resident stands up and says, "I move that the association allocate funds to install new streetlights on Elm Street." This proposal introduces a completely new idea for the association to consider and vote on, which has not been discussed or proposed before in that meeting. It's not an amendment to an existing plan or a motion to delay another decision; it's a fresh initiative.

  How it illustrates the term: This is an original main motion because it brings a new, substantive issue (installing streetlights) before the association for the first time, requiring a decision on a new course of action.

• Example 2: Corporate Board Meeting

  At a quarterly board meeting for a tech company, the CEO states, "I move that the company establish a new research and development division focused on artificial intelligence." This motion proposes a significant strategic change that has not been previously discussed or voted upon by the board in that meeting. It's a new business item on the agenda.

  How it illustrates the term: This exemplifies an original main motion as it introduces a novel strategic initiative (creating a new R&D division) for the board's consideration and vote, independent of any prior motions.

• Example 3: School Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) Meeting

  During a PTO meeting, a parent suggests, "I move that the PTO organize an annual 'Read-a-Thon' fundraiser to purchase new books for the school library." This proposal introduces a new fundraising event and a new goal for the PTO, distinct from any ongoing projects or previous discussions. It requires the group to decide whether to adopt this new activity.

  How it illustrates the term: This is an original main motion because it presents a new program (the Read-a-Thon) and a new objective (funding library books) for the PTO to deliberate and vote on, without being tied to any existing motion.