What is the result of a tie vote on a main motion?

In parliamentary procedure, when a main motion receives a tie vote, the result is that the motion is deemed to be lost. This principle is grounded in the idea that a majority is needed to pass most motions, implying that a tie indicates insufficient support to enact the proposal. Therefore, since there is an equal number of votes for and against the motion, it cannot be affirmed or approved.

The rationale for this is that parliamentary procedure strives for clear decision-making, and a tie fails to provide the necessary majority. It is important to remember that the chair's role is not to vote except in specific situations, such as breaking a tie. Thus, if the chair were to vote and that vote resulted in a tie, the motion would still be lost unless the chair exercised a casting vote to break that tie, which is not the case in a standard tie situation.