Bill > SB707

This bill updates California's open meeting laws (known as the Ralph M. Brown Act) to enhance public participation and accessibility in local government meetings. Beginning July 1, 2026, and until January 1, 2030, the bill requires eligible legislative bodies (such as city councils and county boards of supervisors in larger jurisdictions) to provide two-way telephonic or audiovisual platforms for public meeting participation, with specific requirements for translation, public comment, and meeting disruption. The bill expands opportunities for remote meeting participation, including for members with caregiving needs or other justified reasons, while maintaining provisions to ensure public transparency. It allows for teleconferencing under various circumstances, such as during emergencies or for specific types of bodies like health authorities and student organizations, and mandates that meeting agendas be translated into languages spoken by 20% or more of the local population. The legislation aims to modernize public meeting access by reflecting technological changes, promoting broader civic engagement, and providing flexibility for different types of local government bodies while maintaining core principles of open government.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Justice

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB707