Bill > A03805

This bill amends the public officers law and public buildings law to expand accessibility and participation in public meetings. Specifically, the bill updates language from "physically handicapped" to "persons with disabilities" and requires public bodies to ensure meeting facilities are barrier-free for individuals with disabilities. The legislation also mandates that any public meeting must now allow participation both in-person and remotely through technologies like telephone conferences, video conferences, or other similar communication methods. Additionally, the bill clarifies the definition of "persons with disabilities" to include various physical and sensory impairments, such as those requiring wheelchair use, experiencing walking difficulties, having hearing or vision challenges, or dealing with age-related mobility issues. Public bodies are permitted to establish reasonable rules for recording and transmitting meetings, provided these rules are posted visibly and available upon request. The changes aim to make government meetings more accessible and inclusive for all citizens, regardless of physical limitations or geographic location.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3805