In parliamentary procedure, what does the term "point of order" refer to?

The term "point of order" specifically refers to a concern or inquiry concerning the legality or appropriateness of a procedure during a meeting. When a member raises a point of order, they are essentially questioning whether the procedures being followed align with the established rules or governing documents, such as the bylaws or parliamentary authority being adhered to. This mechanism is crucial for maintaining order and ensuring that meetings are conducted according to accepted procedures, safeguarding the rights of members and the integrity of the meeting's decisions.

The other options do not accurately describe what a point of order entails. For instance, requesting to read the previous meeting's minutes is a standard practice but does not address legality concerns. A motion to close the meeting is a separate action that requires a specific process to be followed, while suggesting changes to meeting rules indicates a proposal rather than a procedural inquiry. Thus, understanding that a point of order brings attention to potential violations of rules highlights its vital role in parliamentary procedure.