What should a member do if they wish to discuss an issue not on the agenda?

When a member wishes to discuss an issue that is not on the agenda, the proper course of action is to request to add the item during the "new business" segment of the meeting. This option allows the member to formally introduce the topic to the group, ensuring that it can be addressed appropriately within the meeting’s structure.

Requesting to add the issue during "new business" is aligned with parliamentary procedure, which emphasizes order and clarity in discussions. By doing so, the member respects the meeting's agenda while still ensuring their concerns are heard and considered. This approach facilitates proper debate and decision-making, as it allows other members to be prepared for the discussion and to allocate time for it in a structured manner.

In contrast, attempting to force the discussion without permission disrupts meeting decorum and undermines the established procedure. Bringing it up under "old business" would not be appropriate unless the issue was previously discussed or tabled in a prior meeting. Waiting until the next meeting may delay important discussions but does not utilize the current meeting effectively to address immediate concerns. Thus, requesting to add the item during "new business" maintains the integrity of the meeting while also allowing important topics to be brought to the forefront.