Bill > SB2571

This bill proposes to amend Mississippi's Open Meetings Law to require most public bodies to broadcast their regular and special meetings via video livestream on their official website's front page or a designated government channel. The new provision mandates that public notices include a detailed agenda and the online streaming link, and requires public bodies to submit their streaming links to the Secretary of State for a comprehensive public list. Importantly, any meeting that fails to comply with these livestreaming and notice requirements will have its actions deemed void and legally ineffective. The bill explicitly excludes the Legislature, its component units, and the judiciary from these requirements. The livestreaming mandate applies to political subdivisions, municipal corporations, and their administrative units, with exceptions for executive sessions and other legally closed meetings. Meetings can still be conducted via teleconference or video means, provided that the equipment allows public and member participation, and votes must be clearly audible or visible. The new requirements will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving public bodies time to prepare for implementation.

Government Affairs

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/SB/SB2571.xml