Bill > A03615

This bill makes comprehensive changes to New York's public meeting laws, primarily focusing on web-based videoconferencing requirements for public bodies. The legislation mandates that public bodies shall use web-based videoconferencing with closed captioning, requiring a minimum number of members to be physically present at meeting locations. For bodies composed of elected officials, a quorum must be physically present, while for appointed boards, the presiding officer must be in person or designate an alternate. The bill establishes new requirements for public meeting notices, including posting details on websites and social media, providing clear information about videoconferencing access, and ensuring public participation through real-time video and closed captioning. Additionally, the bill creates a municipal hybrid meeting trust fund to support municipalities in expanding their remote and hybrid meeting capabilities, with a competitive grant program administered by the office of information technology services. The legislation also requires meeting minutes to document electronic participation details and mandates that meetings be recorded and made available online. Notably, the bill makes permanent previous temporary provisions allowing more flexible meeting formats and aims to improve accessibility and transparency of public meetings across New York state.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3615