The Power of the Motion to Amend: Fix It, Don’t Ditch It

Have you ever sat in a meeting where someone makes a motion—and you mostly agree with it, but there’s just one part you’d like to change?

Maybe the amount is too high.
Maybe the date isn’t ideal.
Maybe the wording feels a little off.

Instead of voting it down and starting all over again, there’s a better way: amend it.

What Is the Motion to Amend?

The motion to amend is a tool that lets the group change the details of a motion before making a final decision. It’s like editing a group proposal on the spot.

You can use it to:

• Add something (e.g., “I move to amend by adding ‘at no cost to the members.’”)
• Strike out something (e.g., “I move to strike out the words ‘by next week.’”)
• Replace wording (e.g., “I move to strike out ‘monthly’ and insert ‘quarterly.’”)

It’s simple, flexible, and keeps the group moving forward.

Why Is It Helpful?

Because no one makes a perfect motion every time.

We all forget things. We all have different priorities. The motion to amend allows the group to work together to shape a decision that reflects the best thinking of everyone in the room.

Instead of getting stuck on something minor and having to reject a good idea over one small flaw, you can refine it, debate it, and make it better—right there in the meeting.

What Happens Next?

If someone moves to amend a motion, the group takes a vote on the amendment first. If the amendment passes, then the new and improved version of the motion becomes what the group will vote on next.

Final Thoughts

Don’t throw out a good idea just because it needs a tweak. Use the motion to amend to fix it, not ditch it. This is how having a Parliamentary Consultant at your meetings can help expedite good ideas into passing motions.