What is the initial requirement before a member may speak in debate?

• A. The chair assigns the floor; the member rises to speak and addresses the chair.
• B. The minutes are approved.
• C. The meeting is adjourned.
• D. The chair immediately calls for the vote.

Answer: (A)

In debate, the first step is recognition to speak. The chair must assign the floor, and the member then rises and addresses the chair before speaking. This establishes who has the right to speak and keeps the discussion orderly, with each person speaking in turn. Minutes approval, adjournment, or calling for a vote don’t grant the right to speak or start debate, so they aren’t the initial requirement.