SF0027

SF0027 Bill No.: SF0027 Drafter: LNS LSO No.: 12LSO-0098 Effective Date: July 1, 2012 Enrolled Act No.: SEA0063 Chapter No.: CH0075 Prime Sponsor: Joint Judiciary Interim Committee Catch Title: Public meetings. Subject: Amendment of the public meeting statutes. Summary/Major Elements: This act: Amends the definition of "meeting" to mean an assembly of at least a quorum of the governing body of an agency called for the expressed purpose of discussion or taking action regarding public business. Provides that an "assembly" for purposes of a public meeting includes any means of communication in person, by means of telephone or electronic communication, or any other means where members are capable of communicating contemporaneously. Clarifies that the provisions of the public meeting act cannot be circumvented by sequential communication or communication conducted in such a manner that the public cannot hear, read, or otherwise discern meeting discussion contemporaneously. Amends the notification requirements for a special meeting, requiring notification be issued at least eight (8) hours prior to commencement of a special meeting. Provides a civil penalty for violation of the act rather than a criminal penalty.