I recently read two summarized books about RRO, which doesn't make me an expert by any means...But RRO does say that the chair of the meeting votes only if his/her vote would make a difference (i.e. break a tie). That would mean your other officers could vote. Regarding amendments to the bylaws, RRO says you need 2/3 + vote, and must announce the proposed change in advance. Anyone can suggest a bylaw change.

If your group is receptive to RRO guidelines, and your bylaws stipulate that RRO is your rule of order, you might want to head to your local bookstore. The full text of RRO is 706 pages, but I got thru the two small books in a weekend. Obviously, you give up something in translation, but you'll still know loads more, and be able to refer to the independent third party (Robert) as your decsion-maker -- takes the responsibility off your shoulders.

In our bylaws it states that we may amend bylaws at any regular meeting of the association by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the members present and voting, provided that notice of the proposed amendment shall have been given at the previous meeting. It always takes us two meetings to change our bylaws. One meeting the change is proposed stating both the way it is presently worded, the change or addition, or deletion and the reason for it. A motion is made and passed. Notice being given of the proposed change, 30 day notice, to the membership and then it is voted on at the next meeting. We may change our Standing Rules without notice and 2/3 vote of a quorum. Since RR is our pariliamentary authority I am assuming this to be in line. Check your bylaws. Hope this helps. Best Wishes

Can the President suggest a change to the bylaws and let the proposal stand for 30 days and then take a vote? Can the Treasurer/Secretary/V. President participate in voting? Can they make a motion to vote? There is a disagreement in out PTO about this. Our bylaws do not adress this issue. What does Roberts Rules of Order rule on this? Thanks