Difference Between Motion and Resolution

Motion vs Resolution

Motion and resolution are words that are commonly heard and used in the meetings of the board of directors of a corporation. These words are also used in parliamentary proceedings confusing many because of their similarities and overlapping. There are many who think that these words are synonymous as they use them interchangeably. However, the two words have different meanings and the difference between these two will become clear after reading this article.

What is a Motion?

Talking about proceedings in the parliament; a motion is a proposal put forward by a member of the legislative assembly with the aim to make the assembly deliberate on the issue. There are many different types of proposals from members such as budgetary motions, legislative motions, and so on but the basic aim of a parliamentary motion is always to make the assembly take note of the issue and start deliberating on it.

Talking about board meetings in corporations, there are always issues that need to be discussed and there are also talks about amending a few rules. Generally, one member in the meeting gets up and makes a proposal. This is equivalent to putting forward a motion that is often seconded by another member. If the board president feels that there are many members in favor of the motion with very few opposing, the motion is deemed as passed and a decision to this effect is noted down.

What is a Resolution?

When a motion is passed by the members in the meeting of the board of directors, it is considered as a resolution. Under the Companies Act, a motion becomes a resolution when it s passed by a majority of the members present and voting. A resolution has the effect of a law, and it becomes binding upon the members of the board.

In the case of parliament or any other legislative body, the motion takes the shape of an Act or law once it has been passed and adopted by the legislative assembly.

What is the difference between Motion and Resolution?

• Motion is a resolution in the state of a proposal; in other words, a resolution is a motion that has been approved.

• When a motion has been passed and adopted by a majority of the members present and voting, it becomes a resolution.

• Motion is a proposal put forward by a member and seconded by another member. There may be some members favoring and some opposing the motion, but if the majority pass it, the motion becomes a resolution.

• In a legislative body, the formal manner in which a member presents an issue for the consideration of the assembly is referred to as a motion.