Table
In congressional procedure, to table a motion, amendment, or measure generally means to set it aside. Depending on the chamber and the question, a successful motion to table often disposes of the pending matter without a direct vote on its underlying merits. The exact effect depends on the procedural context.
In congressional procedure, to table a motion, amendment, or measure generally means to set it aside. Depending on the chamber and the question, a successful motion to table often disposes of the pending matter without a direct vote on its underlying merits. The exact effect depends on the procedural context.
Example: Senate roll-call archives record motions to table as distinct procedural questions, separate from final passage votes on bills. A vote on a motion to table therefore concerns how the Senate handles a pending proposal, not necessarily the policy itself.
Common misconception: A motion to table always means a bill is postponed until later. In many circumstances, tabling effectively ends consideration of the pending motion or amendment.
Sources: https://www.senate.gov/about/powers-procedures/rules-procedures.htm; https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_lists/vote_menu_113_2.htm