Member:

I move to suspend the rules [Indicate which rule you want to suspend or what you want to do that the rules interfere with]

Chair:

Is there a second to the motion? [This statement is eliminated if a member calls out "second" or if the motion is made on behalf of a committee.]

2nd Member:

I second the motion.

Chair:

It is moved and seconded to suspend the rules for the purpose of . . .

Chair:

This is not a debatable motion. The question is on the adoption of the motion to suspend the rules for the purpose of . . .

[Needs a two-thirds vote or majority vote, according to the rule suspended]

Chair:

All those in favor of the motion, please rise.  [Pause] You may be seated.  Those opposed to the motion, please rise. [Pause] You may be seated.

There are two-thirds in the affirmative and the motion is adopted.  We will suspend the rules for the purpose of …

or

There are less than two-thirds in the affirmative and the motion is lost.  We will not suspend the rules for the purpose of …

RULESFOR THE MOTION TO SUSPEND THE RULES:

• Needs a second
• Is not debatable
• Is not amendable
• May be made while another motion is pending, as long as it applies to that motion
• Vote needed: If the rule is in the nature of a parliamentary rule of order, a two-thirds vote is required. If the rule is in the nature of guidelines relating to the way the organization carries out its business, a majority vote is required.