Bill > SB47

This bill revises the requirements for executive sessions, which are closed meetings held by public bodies, by amending an existing law. It clarifies that such sessions can only be held for specific, enumerated purposes, such as discussing personnel matters, student discipline, consulting with legal counsel on litigation or contracts, preparing for or conducting contract negotiations, discussing sensitive business strategies for state-owned entities, or addressing matters related to public safety and property protection, including vulnerability assessments, emergency plans, security information, and details about weapons or hazardous materials. The bill also mandates that entering an executive session requires a majority vote of the members present and voting at an open meeting, and if the vote is not unanimous, it must be taken by roll call. Furthermore, any motion to enter an executive session must specify the legal basis for it, and the motion and vote must be recorded in the meeting minutes, with discussions strictly limited to the stated purpose. Any official actions resulting from these closed sessions must be taken in an open meeting, and the bill notes that constitutional or statutory provisions may permit or require closed sessions. Violating these provisions is considered a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Government Affairs

Local Government (Senate)

https://sdlegislature.gov/#/Session/Bill/26761