What is the first step in presenting an item of business?

• A. Rising and Addressing the Chair
• B. Opening the Meeting
• C. Asking for Permission to Speak
• D. Introducing the Item

Answer: (A)

Rising and addressing the chair is the proper way to begin presenting any item of business. It shows you are seeking to participate and allows the presiding officer to recognize you so you may speak. In formal meetings, the chair controls who has the floor, so you must be acknowledged before you can discuss or present the item. After you’ve been recognized, you can present the item and explain its purpose or motion. Opening the meeting is done at the start of the session, not when presenting a specific item, and asking for permission to speak is something you do after you are recognized.