What is what does it mean to table something?
To "table" something, particularly in the context of meetings or parliamentary procedure, generally means to postpone consideration of a motion, proposal, or item of business. It's a way to delay a decision, often indefinitely. The action of tabling essentially removes the item from the current agenda.
There are a few key aspects to understand:
- Purpose: The main purpose of tabling is to defer a decision, providing more time for deliberation, gathering further information, or addressing more urgent matters. It is not a way to kill the motion.
- Process: A motion to table requires a second, and is typically subject to a vote. The specific rules regarding the vote (e.g., majority required, whether it's debatable) depend on the governing rules of the organization or body.
- Effect: If the motion to table is successful, the item is removed from the current agenda. It can be brought back up for consideration at a later meeting if a motion to take it from the table is passed.
- Distinction from other actions: It's important to distinguish tabling from other procedural motions like postponing definitely (setting a specific future time for consideration) or referring to a committee. Tabling is generally intended to be a more indefinite postponement.
Here are links to explore this more: