Parliamentarian
pcurtis@iabpf.org
Parliamentarian’s Corner
Keeping Order So We Can Focus on What Matters
Brothers and Sisters,
The IABPFF is built on tradition, respect, and unity. Just like on the fireground, things run best when everyone knows their role and we follow a clear system. In our meetings, that system is our Constitution and Bylaws and Roberts rules newly revised edition. This applies from the International all the way down to our individual chapters.
My job as IABPFF Parliamentarian is simple:
To help our meetings stay fair, organized, and respectful — so the will of the membership is heard clearly and carried out properly.
What the Parliamentarian Does
- Advises the Chair on procedure
- Helps interpret our Constitution and Bylaws
- Assists with wording motions when asked
- Helps ensure everyone gets a fair chance to speak
- Protects both majority rule and minority rights
Just like a safety officer doesn’t run the fire but keeps operations safe — the Parliamentarian doesn’t run the meeting. The Chair runs the meeting. I advise.
Wearing Two Helmets: Parliamentarian & Member
I am also a dues-paying member, just like you.
That means I have the right to:
- Make motions
- Speak in debate
- Vote
But when I’m actively advising the Chair, I stay neutral.
If I want to debate an issue, I will clearly step out of the advisory role for that item. You’ll know when I’m speaking as a member and not as the Parliamentarian. That separation protects fairness and trust.
Perception matters in leadership — especially in a national brotherhood like ours.
Why Procedure Matters
Rules aren’t about control. They’re about respect.
Good procedure ensures:
- Every chapter has a voice
- Debate stays professional
- Decisions are clear and defensible
- No one gets steamrolled
- Our actions hold up between conventions
Quick Refresher for Convention & Meetings
Making a Motion
- Get recognized by the Chair.
- Say, “I move that…”
- Another member seconds it.
- Debate begins after the Chair restates it.
Amending a Motion If something needs adjusting:
- Move to amend (add, remove, or replace wording).
- It requires a second.
- We vote on the amendment before returning to the main motion.
Point of Order, If procedure isn’t being followed:
- Say, “Point of order.”
- The Chair will address it.
- If needed, the membership can appeal the ruling.
No drama. No personal attacks. Just process.
A Final Word
We serve in a profession built on discipline, accountability, and trust. Our meetings should reflect that same standard.
Procedure protects the mission.
Procedure protects the membership.
Procedure protects the association.
If you ever have a question about motions, bylaws, or convention process, reach out ahead of time. I’d rather help you craft a clean motion before a meeting than untangle confusion on the floor.
Stay safe. Stay professional. Stay unified.
Parliamentarian