Bill > SB2259

This bill, known as "The Peoples Access Act," mandates that official meetings of Mississippi state agencies, with certain exceptions like executive sessions, must be broadcast live via video livestreaming applications on the front page of each agency's official website or a designated government channel. Public notices for these meetings must also be broadcast online and include a detailed agenda of topics to be discussed, along with the link to the livestream. State agencies are required to submit their livestreaming links to the Department of Finance and Administration, which will maintain a public list. If a state agency fails to diligently comply with these livestreaming or public notice requirements, it may face penalties outlined in Section 25-41-15 of the Mississippi Code. In cases of technological difficulties preventing livestreaming, agencies must record the meeting and post both the recording and minutes online as soon as possible, explaining why the livestream was not possible. This provision applies only to state agencies and not to the Legislature or the judiciary, with full compliance required by January 1, 2027, and meeting recordings to be archived for at least 24 months.