Which statement about the second on a motion is accurate?

• A. A second is required from the same member who made the motion.
• B. A second is required for a motion to be discussed.
• C. A motion can be adopted without a second.
• D. A second ensures time is not wasted considering a motion only one member supports.

Answer: (D)

The main idea is that a second on a motion serves to show there is interest beyond the person who makes the motion, so the group isn’t bogged down discussing something that only one member wants. A second acts as a signal that the proposal has some level of backing and warrants consideration.

That’s why the statement about a second being used to ensure time isn’t wasted on a motion that only one member supports is the best description. Without a second, there’s little reason to proceed because the motion may have no broader input or support to justify discussion. The second must come from another member, not the mover, which reinforces that there is at least some cross-member interest.

In practice, while a second is typically required for discussion, the core purpose highlighted here is the safeguard against wasting time on a motion with only the original proposer’s support. The other options don’t capture that function as clearly: the second isn’t provided by the same person, and in formal settings a motion generally isn’t adopted without some demonstrated backing.