Which of the following is true about the main motion as related to ranking among motions in the legislative procedure?

• A. It is the highest ranking motion.
• B. It can only be moved by a member who has not spoken.
• C. It is the lowest ranking motion.
• D. It requires unanimous consent to be moved.

Answer: (C)

In parliamentary procedure, motions are arranged by precedence: higher-ranked motions can take precedence over and even interrupt lower-ranked ones. The main motion is the vehicle for bringing business before the assembly, and it sits at the bottom of that priority scale. That’s why it is the lowest ranking motion—the assembly gives priority to other motions (like privileged motions or certain subsidiary or incidental motions) before considering the main motion. It doesn’t require being moved by someone who hasn’t spoken, nor does it require unanimous consent to be moved; it must be seconded and then is eligible for debate and amendment as the primary vehicle of business.