When might a "lay on the table" motion be used?

The "lay on the table" motion is used specifically to pause the discussion on a main motion temporarily. This procedural tactic allows members to set aside the current topic at hand, perhaps due to the need for further information or because an urgent matter has arisen that requires immediate attention. By choosing to lay a motion on the table, meetings can maintain efficiency and adapt to the needs of the group, postponing the discussion without dismissing the original motion entirely.

This motion does not initiate debate, finalize decisions, or move directly to the next agenda item; rather, it acts as a way to create flexibility within the meeting's proceedings. The intention is to provide time to reconsider the main motion later, allowing for more informed decision-making when the issue returns to the floor.