Can you abstain from voting at a board meeting?

Yes. Under Robert’s Rules of Order, every member has the right to abstain from voting on any motion. Abstaining is not a vote for or against — it simply means you choose not to vote. You are not required to explain why you are abstaining. An abstention does not count toward the “Aye” or “No” tally and does not affect whether a motion passes or fails.

Does abstaining from voting mean you agree?

No. Under Robert’s Rules of Order, an abstention carries no implied meaning — it is not a “yes,” not a “no,” and not an indication of approval or disapproval. The phrase “abstaining means you agree” is a common misconception. An abstaining member has simply chosen not to participate in that particular vote. The motion passes or fails based solely on the “Aye” and “No” votes cast.

What is the proper procedure for a board meeting vote?

Under Robert’s Rules: (1) A member makes a motion; (2) another member seconds it; (3) the chair opens debate; (4) members discuss; (5) the chair calls the vote (“All in favor say Aye… opposed say No…”); (6) the chair announces the result; (7) the secretary records the motion, mover, and outcome in the minutes. This sequence applies to all main motions unless the assembly has adopted a simplified procedure in their bylaws.

When should a board use a secret ballot vote?

Secret ballot votes are appropriate for officer elections (when there is more than one candidate), for matters where social pressure might affect individual votes, when required by the organization’s bylaws, or when a member requests a ballot vote and the assembly approves. Under RONR, any member can request a ballot vote — the assembly then votes on whether to use a ballot for that particular item.

What happens when there is a tie vote on a board?

Under Robert’s Rules of Order, a tied vote means the motion fails — because it did not achieve a majority (more than half). A tie is not a deadlock requiring special resolution; it is simply a failed vote. The board chair may choose to vote to break the tie if they have not already voted, but is not obligated to do so.

Can a board member vote by proxy?

Under Robert’s Rules, proxy voting is not recognized — a member must be present to vote. However, nonprofit bylaws can authorize proxy voting (allowing one member to vote on behalf of an absent member). If your organization’s bylaws permit proxies, the rules for proxy authorization, scope, and recordkeeping are governed by those bylaws and applicable state law, not by RONR.

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