BEDFA:   ABSTENTIONS

An abstention is a non-expression and cannot be considered a vote in favor of or against a motion.

Each member of the School Committee has the duty to express a choice or preference by voting on the issues, but can legally abstain from doing so when there is a statutory or ethical conflict of interest.  Not to vote is to abstain.

Abstentions are intended for situations where a member may have a direct or indirect pecuniary interest in the matter being voted on.

Adopted:                 April 12, 2011

Legal Reference:    30 MRSA § 2605 et seq.

Cross Reference:     BCB – School Committee Member Conflict of Interest

                                BEDF - Voting Method