Sometimes, during the course of discussion, a member asks for a straw poll of members. This is a non-binding vote that helps members determine the group opinion.

If you are not able to attend a meeting but still want your voice to be heard on an issue, you have a couple of options:

* Email the President a statement to be read during the meeting. This has become more commonplace to do even if members are planning to be present because it can give more context in the agenda and minutes to members unable to attend.

* Read the meeting minutes and then vote on the ballot sent to the house via email.