RULE XVI —Debate
Section 1. Purpose
Debate shall allow fair and orderly discussion of motions while ensuring efficient conduct of business.

Section 2. Recognition
Members wishing to speak must first be recognized by the presiding officer.

No member may speak without recognition.

Section 3. Priority of Speakers
Members who have not spoken on a motion shall be given priority over those who have already spoken.

At meetings of delegates, duly certified delegates shall have priority over non-delegates.

Section 4. Speaking Limits
No member may speak more than two (2) times on the same motion while others who have not spoken wish to be heard.

Section 5. Time Limits
Each speech shall be limited to two (2) minutes unless extended by a vote of the assembly.

Section 6. Relevance of Debate
All remarks must be confined to the motion under consideration.

The presiding officer shall rule a speaker out of order if remarks are irrelevant, repetitive, or not germane to the motion.

Section 7. Control of Debate
The presiding officer shall enforce the rules of debate and may:

a)   Direct a speaker to conclude remarks;
b)   Rule a speaker out of order;
c)   Refuse recognition to a member who persists in improper debate;
d)   Restore order if multiple members attempt to speak at once.

Section 8. Limiting or Closing Debate
Debate may be limited or closed by a motion requiring a two-thirds (2/3) vote.

Section 9. Interruptions
Members shall not interrupt a speaker except:

a)   To raise a Point of Order;
b)   To raise a Question of Privilege;
c)   When recognized by the presiding officer.

Section 10. Decorum
All members shall conduct themselves in a respectful manner.

Personal attacks, disruptive behavior, or repeated violations of these rules may result in loss of speaking privileges for that motion, as ruled by the presiding officer and subject to appeal.