What does the term "lay on the table" mean in parliamentary procedure?

In parliamentary procedure, the term "lay on the table" refers to the action of putting a motion on hold temporarily. This allows members to set aside the current discussion without rejecting it entirely, enabling them to return to it at a later time when they may wish to consider it further. This procedure is often used to manage meeting agendas and facilitate the discussion of more pressing matters currently at hand.

Other possible interpretations of the options highlight different aspects of parliamentary procedure. Ending the meeting, for example, signifies a complete cessation of all discussions and activities, while permanently rejecting a motion implies that it will not be revisited in the future. Allowing for further discussion without a vote suggests a different procedural tactic that still maintains engagement with the motion at hand rather than placing it on hold. Thus, "laying on the table" is a strategic move to defer consideration rather than conclude it.