Bill > HB2209

This bill modifies the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act to allow members of a public body to participate in meetings via videoconference or teleconference from their private residence under specific conditions. The bill permits a member to join a meeting from home without revealing their exact address, requiring only that they identify the location as a "private residence" on the meeting notice. The videoconference technology must enable the public to see and hear the participating member, and the member's participation must not restrict public access to the meeting or limit their contributions. The bill specifically excludes situations where a meeting is held entirely or primarily at a private residence, or when two or more members are present at a private residence, which would require full location disclosure. The legislation defines "private residence" as any personal living space not used as a public or commercial meeting site and emphasizes that public bodies must still comply with all existing Open Meeting Act transparency, accessibility, and notice requirements. The bill's intent is to balance open governance principles with individual privacy and security, ensuring transparency while protecting personal addresses from public disclosure. The new law is set to become effective on November 1, 2025.