Define: Quorum Call

A quorum call is a procedure used in legislative bodies to determine whether there are enough members present to conduct official business. It is usually initiated by a member of the body to ensure that the required minimum number of members is present.

The determination of a quorum is usually specified in the governing rules or bylaws of the legislative body. It is typically a fixed percentage or number of members required to be present for the body to conduct business.

If a quorum is not present during a quorum call, the legislative body cannot proceed with its official business. In such cases, the meeting may be adjourned or postponed until a sufficient number of members can be present.

Yes, a quorum call can be challenged if a member believes that the count of present members is inaccurate. The challenge is usually resolved by a vote or by a recount of the members present.

While a quorum call is a legitimate procedure to ensure the presence of enough members, it can be misused to delay or obstruct proceedings. However, most legislative bodies have rules in place to prevent such abuse and may impose penalties for frivolous or excessive quorum calls.

In some cases, a legislative body may have provisions that allow for the waiver of a quorum call. This can happen if all members present agree to proceed with the business even if the required quorum is not met.

A quorum call itself does not have the power to force absent members to attend. However, it serves as a mechanism to identify the absence of members and may prompt them to attend subsequent meetings to avoid delays or consequences.

While quorum calls are most commonly associated with legislative bodies, other organisations or groups may also adopt similar procedures to ensure the presence of enough members for decision-making purposes.

In most cases, challenges to a quorum call need to be made at the time of the call or during the meeting. Challenging it after the meeting may not have any effect on the decisions made during that meeting.

No, a quorum call itself does not determine the outcome of a vote. It only determines whether there are enough members present to conduct business. The actual decisions are made through voting procedures specific to the legislative body.