What term denotes a situation where a member has a direct personal interest not common to the other members?

• A. Quorum deficit
• B. Conflict of interest
• C. Recusal
• D. Pro tempore

Answer: (B)

A conflict of interest describes a situation where a member has a direct personal interest that isn’t shared by the other members, which could bias their judgment on a matter before the group. This is the term that precisely captures the scenario the question describes. Under Robert’s Rules, such a member should disclose the interest and may be required to refrain from debate and voting on that issue, or even be recused from participating in the matter. The other terms refer to different ideas: a quorum deficit means not enough members are present to conduct business; recusal is the act of withdrawing from participation due to a conflict; and pro tempore means a temporary presiding officer.