Legal Definitions - specific main motion

A specific main motion is a formal proposal made during a meeting or assembly that introduces a new, substantive topic or action for consideration and decision by the group. It is the primary way to bring new business before an organization. Unlike motions that relate to existing discussions or procedural matters, a specific main motion stands alone as an independent proposition, clearly outlining a particular course of action or policy for the group to adopt, reject, or modify.

Here are some examples to illustrate this concept:

• Example 1: Community Association Meeting

  During a neighborhood association meeting, a resident states, "I move that the association allocate $1,000 from our reserve fund to install new playground equipment in the community park by next summer." This is a specific main motion because it introduces a completely new item of business – the funding and installation of playground equipment – for the association to discuss and vote on. It is a distinct proposal, not an amendment to an existing motion or a procedural request.

• Example 2: Corporate Board Meeting

  At a quarterly board of directors meeting for a technology company, a board member proposes, "I move that the company establish a new department dedicated to artificial intelligence research and development, effective next fiscal year." This constitutes a specific main motion. It presents a significant, standalone strategic initiative for the board to consider, debate, and potentially approve, rather than addressing a point of order or modifying a previously introduced proposal.

• Example 3: University Student Government Session

  In a student government session, a representative declares, "I move that the student government organize an annual campus-wide sustainability fair to promote eco-friendly practices among students." This is a specific main motion because it introduces a new, concrete event and initiative for the student government to undertake. It's a fresh proposal for action that requires the body's independent consideration and vote, rather than being tied to another ongoing discussion.