To refer to a committee is an example of what type of motion?

Referring to a committee is an example of a subsidiary motion. This type of motion is used to change or affect the way in which a main motion is handled. When a motion is made to refer a matter to a committee, it is essentially a request for further examination and deliberation on the topic before a decision is made by the larger assembly. The purpose of this motion is to allow for a more detailed analysis of the issue at hand, often because the committee can convene, gather additional information, and provide recommendations that help the assembly make a more informed decision.

In parliamentary procedure, subsidiary motions assist in managing the discussion and decision-making process, ensuring that members can address specific aspects of a main motion without dismissing the main question entirely. The other types of motions serve distinct functions: privileged motions take precedence over others and do not relate to the pending question, main motions introduce new business, and incidental motions deal with procedural matters arising from the current situation.