Previous question — the House's debate-ender
In the House, the previous question (PQ) is the standard tool for ending debate. The PQ has been called the House's most powerful procedural tool — it ends debate immediately, forecloses amendments, and forces a vote. PQ votes are simple-majority and are usually how the majority leadership controls the flow of business.
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Step 1 — Member moves the previous question
On any pending matter, a member can move "the previous question." If the motion succeeds, debate ends and the underlying matter goes to an immediate vote.
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Step 2 — Vote on the PQ
Simple majority. If it succeeds, debate is over. If it fails, debate continues — but PQ failures are politically embarrassing for leadership and rare.
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Why it's controversial
PQ usage is the principal tool of House majority control. The minority routinely complains about being forced to vote on bills they've had limited time to read. PQ failures (very rare) signal a serious leadership rebellion.