Page:Robert's Parliamentary Practice.djvu/147

Rh stated in the by-laws. These rules, like the by-laws, may be amended only after due notice by a two-thirds vote, but the rules relating to the transaction of business may be suspended for the time being by a two-thirds vote, provided the rule is not designed to protect absentees or a minority as small as one-third. The rules protecting absentees or a minority as small as one-third cannot be suspended.

Standing Rules are those rules, or resolutions of a continuing nature, that may be adopted at any meeting without the necessity for previous notice being given. At any future session any of the standing rules may by a majority vote be suspended for that session only, and therefore they cannot interfere with the freedom of future sessions. The vote required for the adoption of a standing rule is the same as is required for the adoption of a resolution having a similar effect during that session only. Thus, if the rule limits debate it requires a two-thirds vote for its adoption. If the rule specifies the hour for the meetings, it may be adopted by a majority vote unless it conflicts with a rule previously adopted. The vote on its adoption, or on its amendment, before or after its adoption, may be reconsidered. A standing rule may be amended or rescinded by a two-thirds vote without notice. If notice of the proposed action was given at the previous meeting or in the call for the meeting, it may be amended or rescinded by a majority vote. In Chapter III the resolution offered by