Legal Definitions - divide the house

Divide the house is a parliamentary procedure that orders the counting of votes in a meeting. It is also known as divide the assembly or challenge the vote. This procedure is used when there is doubt about the outcome of a voice vote.

During a meeting, a motion is made and a voice vote is taken. The chairperson announces that the motion has passed, but some members doubt the outcome. They can call for a divide the house procedure, which means that the members will be asked to stand and be counted as either for or against the motion.

Another example is during an election where there is a tie. The chairperson can call for a divide the house procedure to determine the winner.

These examples illustrate how divide the house is used to ensure the accuracy of a vote and to resolve any doubts about the outcome.