When to Use Division of the Question

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 140 views

Introduction

In parliamentary procedure, motions are often complex and multifaceted, consisting of two or more distinct parts. When this occurs, it can be challenging for the assembly to discuss and vote on each part separately. In such cases, a motion can be made to separate the discussion of the parts, ensuring that each aspect is thoroughly debated and understood before a decision is made. This article will explore the options available for separating the discussion of motion parts, focusing on the incidental motion that can be moved to achieve this goal.

Division of the Question

The Division of the Question is an incidental motion that allows the assembly to separate the discussion of a motion into two or more distinct parts. This motion is used when a main motion contains two or more separate and distinct propositions, and the assembly wishes to discuss and vote on each part separately.

When to Use Division of the Question

The Division of the Question is typically used in the following situations:

A main motion contains two or more separate and distinct propositions.
The assembly wishes to discuss and vote on each part separately.
The assembly wants to ensure that each part is thoroughly debated and understood before a decision is made.

Procedure for Division of the Question

To move the Division of the Question, a member must rise and state, "I move the division of the question." The chair then puts the question to the assembly, and if a majority votes in favor of the division, the main motion is divided into two or more separate parts.

Example

Suppose a member moves the following main motion:

"I move that the assembly adopt the following resolution:

The assembly shall provide additional funding for the local park system.
The assembly shall also establish a new committee to oversee the park system's operations."

If a member wishes to discuss and vote on each part separately, they can move the Division of the Question. The chair would then put the question to the assembly, and if a majority votes in favor of the division, the main motion would be divided into two separate parts:

"Shall the assembly provide additional funding for the local park system?"
"Shall the assembly establish a new committee to oversee the park system's operations?"

Other Options

While the Division of the Question is the most common incidental motion used to separate the discussion of motion parts, there are other options available:

Division of the Assembly: This motion is used to divide the assembly into two or more separate groups, allowing each group to discuss and vote on a motion separately.
Appeal: This motion is used to appeal a decision made by the chair, but it is not typically used to separate the discussion of motion parts.
Point of Order: This motion is used to raise a question about the validity of a motion or the conduct of a member, but it is not typically used to separate the discussion of motion parts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Division of the Question is an incidental motion that allows the assembly to separate the discussion of a motion into two or more distinct parts. This motion is used when a main motion contains two or more separate and distinct propositions, and the assembly wishes to discuss and vote on each part separately. By understanding the procedure for moving the Division of the Question, members can ensure that each part of a motion is thoroughly debated and understood before a decision is made.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the purpose of the Division of the Question?

A: The purpose of the Division of the Question is to separate the discussion of a motion into two or more distinct parts, allowing the assembly to discuss and vote on each part separately.

Q: When can the Division of the Question be moved?

A: The Division of the Question can be moved when a main motion contains two or more separate and distinct propositions, and the assembly wishes to discuss and vote on each part separately.

Q: What is the procedure for moving the Division of the Question?

A: To move the Division of the Question, a member must rise and state, "I move the division of the question." The chair then puts the question to the assembly, and if a majority votes in favor of the division, the main motion is divided into two or more separate parts.

Q: What are the other options available for separating the discussion of motion parts?

Q: What is the Division of the Question?

A: The Division of the Question is an incidental motion that allows the assembly to separate the discussion of a motion into two or more distinct parts. This motion is used when a main motion contains two or more separate and distinct propositions, and the assembly wishes to discuss and vote on each part separately.

Q: When can the Division of the Question be moved?

A: The Division of the Question can be moved when a main motion contains two or more separate and distinct propositions, and the assembly wishes to discuss and vote on each part separately. This motion can be moved at any time during the consideration of the main motion, but it is typically moved before the assembly votes on the main motion.

Q: What is the procedure for moving the Division of the Question?

Q: How is the Division of the Question voted on?

A: The Division of the Question is voted on by the assembly as a whole. If a majority votes in favor of the division, the main motion is divided into two or more separate parts. If a majority votes against the division, the main motion remains as originally proposed.

Q: Can the Division of the Question be used to divide a motion into more than two parts?

A: Yes, the Division of the Question can be used to divide a motion into more than two parts. However, each division must be voted on separately, and a majority must vote in favor of each division before the main motion is divided into additional parts.

Q: What is the difference between the Division of the Question and the Division of the Assembly?

A: The Division of the Question is used to divide a motion into two or more distinct parts, while the Division of the Assembly is used to divide the assembly into two or more separate groups. The Division of the Assembly is typically used to allow different groups to discuss and vote on a motion separately.

Q: Can the Division of the Question be used to divide a motion that has already been voted on?

A: No, the Division of the Question cannot be used to divide a motion that has already been voted on. Once a motion has been voted on, it is considered final and cannot be divided.

Q: What are the benefits of using the Division of the Question?

A: The benefits of using the Division of the Question include:

Allowing the assembly to discuss and vote on each part of a motion separately
Ensuring that each part of a motion is thoroughly debated and understood before a decision is made
Providing a way to divide a complex motion into more manageable parts

Q: What are the limitations of using the Division of the Question?

A: The limitations of using the Division of the Question include:

It can be time-consuming and may delay the consideration of the main motion
It may be used to delay or obstruct the consideration of the main motion
It may be used to divide a motion in a way that is not fair or reasonable

Conclusion

Additional Resources

Robert's Rules of Order: This book provides a comprehensive guide to parliamentary procedure, including the Division of the Question.
Parliamentary Procedure Handbook: This handbook provides a detailed guide to parliamentary procedure, including the Division of the Question.
Online Resources: There are many online resources available that provide information on the Division of the Question, including websites and online forums.

Glossary of Terms

Incidental Motion: A motion that is used to modify or affect the consideration of a main motion.
Division of the Question: An incidental motion that allows the assembly to separate the discussion of a motion into two or more distinct parts.
Main Motion: A motion that is the primary subject of consideration by the assembly.
Assembly: The group of people who are gathered to consider and vote on motions.