Absence of a Quorum

C-SPAN Congressional Glossary

Term	Definition	Used In
Absence of a Quorum	If less than 51 Senators answer a quorum call, the Absence of a Quorum is established. In the absence of a Quorum, the Senate may not conduct legislative business. Instead, the Senate must either adjourn or continue to make motions to obtain a quorum. A motion to get a quorum instructs the Sgt.-at-Arms to either request, compel or arrest absent Senators.	Senate

Term

Definition

Used In

If less than 51 Senators answer a quorum call, the Absence of a Quorum is established.

In the absence of a Quorum, the Senate may not conduct legislative business.

Instead, the Senate must either adjourn or continue to make motions to obtain a quorum.

A motion to get a quorum instructs the Sgt.-at-Arms to either request, compel or arrest absent Senators.

Senate