Bill > S4857

This bill, titled the "Open Meetings Act of 2026," amends chapter 15 of title 28 of the United States Code to establish new documentation requirements for meetings of certain conferences and councils, referred to as "covered meetings." Specifically, the Judicial Conference, which oversees these bodies, must publish notice of these meetings online at least 30 days in advance, including the date, time, place, and agenda, though this requirement can be waived for good cause with an explanation. Furthermore, all covered meetings must provide live audio streaming accessible to the public for free, and an archive of these streams must be published online within seven days of the meeting. Exceptions allow for closed sessions if legally required or if a majority vote deems it necessary for sensitive or confidential matters, provided a reason is stated beforehand.