Bill > H3200

This bill requires public school governing bodies, including charter and special schools, to make their meetings accessible to the public through live electronic transmission, such as livestreaming, with some flexibility for challenging circumstances. The legislation mandates that if a live stream is not possible, a complete audio and video recording must be posted on the school's website within two business days. The State Board of Education will develop a model policy that outlines best practices for livestreaming, including guidelines for making meetings visible and audible in real time, strategies for implementing livestream technology, and methods for publicizing stream availability. School boards must adopt local policies that mirror the state model within three months of its creation, and these policies cannot prevent in-person public participation. The bill includes provisions for schools with limited broadband access to request additional time to comply, and establishes potential penalties for non-compliance of up to one percent of state funds, with penalties varying based on the severity and frequency of violations. The new requirements must be implemented by July 1, 2027, and the act will take effect upon the Governor's approval, with the goal of increasing transparency in public school governance.

Education

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=3200&session=126&summary=B