<P> Parliamentary procedure requires that any action that may alter the rights of a minority has a supermajority requirement . Robert's Rules of Order states: </P> <P> As a compromise between the rights of the individual and the rights of the assembly, the principle has been established that a two - thirds vote is required to adopt any motion that: (a) suspends or modifies a rule of order previously adopted; (b) prevents the introduction of a question for consideration; (c) closes, limits, or extends the limits of debate; (d) closes nominations or the polls, or otherwise limits the freedom of nominating or voting; or (e) takes away membership . </P> <P> This book also states: </P> <P> The vote of a majority of the entire membership is frequently an alternative to a requirement of previous notice, and is required in order to rescind and expunge from the minutes (see p. 310). Otherwise, prescribing such a requirement is generally unsatisfactory in an assembly of an ordinary society, since it is likely to be impossible to get a majority of the entire membership even to attend a given meeting, although in certain instances it may be appropriate in conventions or in permanent boards where the members are obligated to attend the meetings . </P>

When is a supermajority required in the senate