Bill > H3382

This bill modifies Massachusetts' Open Meeting Law to establish more structured procedures for filing and responding to complaints about potential violations. The bill clarifies that individuals can file complaints with a public body within 20 business days of an alleged violation, requiring specific details like contact information and a signature. It mandates that public bodies must review and respond to complaints within 14 business days, confirming receipt and identifying any remedial actions. Importantly, the bill provides a mechanism for public bodies to seek relief from the Attorney General if they receive excessive or burdensome complaints, with the Attorney General considering factors like the body's compliance history, the complaint's burden, potential harassment, and the violation's facts. The bill also requires public bodies to send a copy of the complaint to the Attorney General within 14 business days and specifies that any remedial actions cannot be used as evidence against the public body in subsequent legal proceedings. Additionally, the bill makes a small amendment to chapter 66 of the General Laws, removing language that restricts information requests. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the complaint process for Open Meeting Law violations while providing some protections for public bodies against potential harassment.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3382