Bill > H3342

This bill modernizes municipal meetings, town meetings, and local elections by establishing comprehensive guidelines for remote participation. It first clarifies that "Select Board" is synonymous with "Board of Selectmen" and then creates new provisions allowing public bodies to conduct meetings remotely using technologies like telephone or video conferencing. The bill enables remote participation for both government members and the public, requiring that such remote meetings provide adequate public access, ensure all participants can hear each other, and record roll call votes. For local elections, the bill grants select boards the authority to postpone annual elections under certain circumstances, such as during weather-related, public safety, or public health emergencies, with specific provisions for maintaining election integrity and voter rights. Additionally, the bill allows town moderators to conduct town meetings through remote or hybrid formats, establishing detailed technological requirements to ensure fair, accessible, and transparent proceedings. The legislation mandates that the attorney general develop best practices for remote participation within 90 days and requires remote meetings to be recorded and made publicly available. Overall, the bill aims to modernize local government operations by providing flexible meeting options while maintaining transparency and democratic principles.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3342