In parliamentary procedure, what phrase is used to introduce a motion?

• A. I move that...(state motion)
• B. Let's discuss
• C. I propose to vote
• D. It is decided

Answer: (A)

In parliamentary procedure, bringing business to the floor is done by saying “I move that …” followed by the proposed action. This clearly signals to the group that you want to adopt a formal motion, and it starts the process that includes a second, debate, possible amendments, and a vote. The phrase is precise and standard, so everyone knows exactly what is being proposed and that the meeting will follow a formal steps-to-action flow.

The other phrases don’t initiate a formal motion. “Let's discuss” is informal and doesn’t set up a formal motion to be debated and voted on. “I propose to vote” mixes proposing action with voting and skips the required sequence of discussion and decision. “It is decided” is something the chair says after a motion has been approved or rejected, not how a motion is introduced.