If there is no further business, how can the chair adjourn without a motion?

• A. The chair cannot adjourn without a motion
• B. The chair votes to adjourn
• C. The chair waits for a vote from the secretary
• D. The chair asks if there is further business; if none exists, declares the meeting adjourned and taps the gavel once.

Answer: (D)

When there is no further business, the chair can end the meeting without a formal motion by inviting any last questions and then declaring adjournment. The chair asks, “Is there any further business?” If no new items exist, the chair states that the meeting is adjourned and taps the gavel once. This allows a smooth, orderly close without needing a motion and vote every time the session has nothing left to do.

This approach fits the idea that adjournment can be accomplished by declaration when business has concluded, saving time and keeping proceedings efficient. It contrasts with requiring a motion to adjourn or waiting for a secretary’s action, which aren’t appropriate in a no-more-business scenario.