Can a motion to amend be made after the main motion has been discussed?

A motion to amend may indeed be made after the main motion has been discussed, but it is contingent upon the main motion still being pending. When a main motion is presented for consideration, it is typically open to debate and discussion. During this period, members may wish to refine or alter the main motion to better suit the goals or concerns of the group.

The process of making an amendment allows members to propose changes, which can enhance the clarity, effectiveness, or overall acceptance of the main motion. However, if the main motion has already progressed to the point where it has been voted on, then it is no longer pending, and thus no further amendments can be proposed at that juncture.

This procedural norm ensures that the rules of order are maintained and that members have a fair opportunity to contribute to the content of the motion while it is still under consideration. In essence, as long as the main motion is still active and open for discussion, the opportunity to amend it remains available.