Bill > S2612

This bill amends Rhode Island's Open Meetings law to allow advisory bodies, which are defined as government entities that provide advice or recommendations but do not make decisions, to participate in public meetings via videoconferencing, provided certain conditions are met to ensure public access and participation, including the opportunity for the public to attend virtually without charge, effective communication, and clear notice about who is participating remotely. Additionally, starting January 1, 2027, all city and town councils and school committees will be required to livestream their public meetings, making recordings available online for five years, and by January 1, 2028, these bodies must also provide a way for the public to participate in meetings via videoconferencing if they already allow public input. The bill also updates requirements for meeting notices and minutes to include information about videoconferencing participation and the availability of recordings.

Justice

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