What is the term for a voting procedure where the chair allows members to object to a motion?

The term for a voting procedure where the chair allows members to object to a motion is unanimous consent. This process is often used in meetings to expedite decision-making by allowing a motion to be adopted unless a member formally objects. It reflects the idea that if no one expresses dissent, the motion is assumed to be supported by all members present.

Unanimous consent is particularly beneficial in informal situations or during procedural matters, as it facilitates smoother discussions and swift conclusions without requiring a formal vote. This can help maintain the efficiency of meetings and emphasize the collaborative nature of parliamentary procedure.

The other options represent different concepts within parliamentary procedure. A plurality vote refers to the outcome where the majority of votes determines the winner, but it does not involve objections in the same way. A mass meeting is a gathering of people for discussion or debate but does not specifically pertain to the voting process. "Lay on the table" is a motion used to temporarily set aside a discussion of a motion, rather than allowing for objections. Thus, the concept of unanimous consent remains distinct and serves a unique role in the context of voting procedures.