
Amendments
Amendments basically is a formal proposal to change, add to, or delete a part of a draft resolution that is already being discussed.
You can modify a clause to make it less vague, add one to strengthen the resolution, or remove one that doesn't fit the resolution or the house's interests well.
Note: It's technically possible to remove all the clauses in the resolution but it will backfire due to either the chair rejects the amendment or the majority goes against it.
There are two types of amendments:
-
Friendly Amendment: If the amendment is loved by sponsors (Usually the main submitter) of the resolution, it takes effect on the resolution with the chair’s notice. No debate and voting needed.
-
Unfriendly Amendment: This is where the drama happens. If the Sponsors don't want your change, then you would be forced to debate in support for it. At the end, if the majority of the House votes "for", the resolution is changed against the Sponsors' will.
Anatomy
Before you discuss your Amendment with the house, you should first send the notice to the chair about your change proposal.
An Amendment notice should contain:
-
The Heading: Clearly state which Draft Resolution where you are attacking....errr...I mean....improving (Yeah...improving)
-
The Action: Tell the chair what is your amendment whether you are:
-
Adding the brand new clauses or sub-clauses
-
Striking if you think the clause is trash
-
Modifying if you think the clause has room for improvement
-
-
Clause Reference: You must specify exactly which clause you are hitting.
-
The New Text: If you are adding or modifying, you must provide the exact wording you want to see in the final version.
Once these 3 points are checked, make sure to edit and double check to make sure your amendment plan works out well.
Then, send the amendment to the chair via admin. Once the chair replies and approves, wait for the right timing to raise your placard and say, "This delegate would like to introduce his amendments."
Anatomy
If there is a debate for your amendment, that means it… is not so friendly.
During the debate, you (the main submitter) would stand up to the podium and make an opening speech.
The speech should include:
-
An introduction of the amendment
-
The amendment’s purpose
-
The reason why the amendment is effective for the resolution and would benefit the House.
Be prepared to answer POIs (Points of Information) from delegates and oppositions. You can either make a speech quickly in handwriting (or laptop if allowed), or improvise it.
After the POI, you can either:
-
Yield the time to the chair
-
OR yield the time to another delegate (Preferably your ally who is your hardcore supporter
If you are supporting your ally’s amendments and want to make a speech in support, the speech should include:
-
Validation: Praise your ally’s amendment and their hard work
-
Reason: Explain exactly what disaster this amendment avoids, and why it would benefit the House
-
The "Call to Action": Urge the House to vote in favor. Be the hype person for the amendment (Even if it’s… questionable or bad)