Legal Definitions - substantive motion

A substantive motion is a formal proposal presented to a deliberative body, such as a committee, board, or legislative assembly, that introduces a new subject for consideration or seeks to achieve a specific action or outcome. It represents the primary way to bring new business before a group, requiring discussion, potential amendments, and a vote to be adopted. Unlike procedural motions, which govern the conduct of a meeting (e.g., to adjourn or table a discussion), a substantive motion addresses the core subject matter, goals, or policies of the organization.

Here are some examples of how a substantive motion might be used:

• Example 1: Community Association Meeting

  During a monthly meeting of a neighborhood homeowners' association, a resident stands up and states, "I move that the association allocate funds from our annual budget to hire a professional landscaping service for the common areas, starting next quarter."

  Explanation: This is a substantive motion because it introduces a new proposal for action—hiring a specific service and allocating funds—that directly relates to the association's responsibilities and budget. It requires discussion, a second, and a vote to determine if the association will proceed with this new initiative.

• Example 2: Corporate Board of Directors

  At a quarterly meeting of a technology company's board of directors, the Chief Financial Officer says, "I move that the company approve a $10 million investment in research and development for our new artificial intelligence division."

  Explanation: This proposal is a substantive motion as it introduces a significant new financial commitment and strategic direction for the company. It's not about how the meeting is run, but about a core business decision that will impact the company's future operations and resource allocation.

• Example 3: University Senate Session

  In a university's academic senate meeting, a professor declares, "I move that the university establish a new interdisciplinary degree program in Environmental Sustainability, effective for the next academic year."

  Explanation: This constitutes a substantive motion because it proposes the creation of a new academic offering, which is a significant policy and programmatic decision for the university. It introduces a new item of business that requires thorough debate, review, and a formal vote by the senate members.