What does germane mean in the context of amendments?

• A. Must involve the same question as the main motion
• B. Must be approved by the presiding officer
• C. Must be noticed in advance
• D. Must be seconded by at least two members

Answer: (A)

Germane means relevant to the topic of the motion being considered. When you propose an amendment, it must relate to the subject of the main motion and not introduce a completely different issue. If an amendment would change the scope or bring in a new matter, it’s not germane and would be out of order.

The other options aren’t about relevance: the chair’s approval isn’t what makes an amendment appropriate, notice in advance is a procedural timing rule, and whether an amendment must be Seconded is about courtesy and procedure, not about whether it fits the topic.