Legal Definitions - quasi-main motion

A quasi-main motion is a type of proposal brought before a group or assembly that, while acting like a primary motion in terms of debate and voting, often deals with matters incidental to the organization's ongoing operations or specific actions rather than introducing entirely new policy or business. It is "quasi" (meaning "seemingly" or "partially") because it shares characteristics with a main motion—it is debatable, amendable, and requires a vote—but it typically arises from or relates to the existing business or administrative needs of the group.

Here are some examples to illustrate this concept:

• Example 1: Neighborhood Association Meeting

  During a neighborhood association meeting, the primary discussion revolves around improving local park facilities. A member might say, "I move that we establish a special committee to investigate potential grant opportunities for the park renovation project." This is a quasi-main motion. It's a substantive proposal that can be debated (e.g., who should be on the committee, what its scope should be) and requires a vote. However, it's "quasi-main" because it doesn't propose the park renovation itself (which would be a true main motion) but rather an action incidental to moving that larger project forward.

• Example 2: Corporate Board Meeting

  At a quarterly board meeting for a non-profit organization, the Treasurer presents the annual financial report. Following the presentation, a board member might propose, "I move that the Board formally accept the Treasurer's Annual Financial Report as presented." This motion is debatable (e.g., if there are questions about specific line items or the report's completeness) and requires a vote for official approval. It's a quasi-main motion because it's an action necessary for the organization's administrative function and record-keeping, rather than introducing a new strategic direction or policy.

• Example 3: University Department Meeting

  In a university department meeting, faculty are discussing the upcoming academic year's course offerings. A professor might state, "I move that the department authorize the Chair to approve expenditures up to $1,500 for guest speakers in the 'Innovations in Technology' seminar series." This motion is debatable (e.g., regarding the amount, the specific seminar, or the need for guest speakers) and requires a vote to grant the authorization. It functions as a quasi-main motion because it's a specific administrative action related to the department's ongoing educational activities, rather than a proposal to create a new course or change the curriculum entirely.