Bill > S01689

This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to enhance press access and transparency in government meetings. It first defines a "professional journalist" as someone who gathers, prepares, or processes news for a media outlet as a regular employee or professional affiliate, ensuring a clear and broad definition of who qualifies for press access. The bill then mandates that open meetings of government agencies must be accessible to professional journalists and press members, explicitly prohibiting any policies that would restrict such access. Additionally, the bill modifies public meeting notice requirements by extending the advance notice period from 72 hours to 96 hours (or four business days) and requiring that local governments also receive meeting notifications. A new provision is added requiring agencies to post draft meeting agendas on their websites at least 24 hours before scheduled meetings, further increasing transparency. These changes aim to improve public access to government proceedings and ensure that journalists can effectively report on official meetings. The bill will take effect 30 days after becoming law.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1689