Bill > H2677

This bill amends the Open Meeting Law in Massachusetts. Key provisions include: 1. Removing the definition of "Intentional Violation" from the law, which previously specified that an intentional violation was an act or omission by a public body or member in knowing violation of the Open Meeting Law. 2. Changing the process for determining responsibility and intent for Open Meeting Law violations. The Attorney General will no longer make these determinations. 3. Expanding the remedies available for violations, including allowing the court to invalidate actions taken at meetings where violations occurred, make meeting records public, require reinstatement of discharged employees, and impose civil fines on public bodies and individual members. The court can also order public bodies to reimburse reasonable attorney's fees and court costs for lawsuits brought by 3 or more registered voters. 4. Allowing the court to take action against individual members of a public body for Open Meeting Law violations, including imposing fines, except for members who are recorded as being in opposition to the violating action.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/H2677