The bill amends the Freedom of Information Act of 1967 to enhance transparency and accessibility in public meetings. It introduces new definitions for terms such as "background and nondecisional information," "cybersecurity," "deliberation," and "poll," which clarify the scope of information relevant to public meetings. The legislation mandates that governing bodies provide prior notice of meetings, ensure reasonable public access, and record meetings to promote transparency. It also specifies requirements for online publication of meeting details and agendas, as well as conditions for holding executive sessions, emphasizing that these sessions should not undermine the transparency goals of the Act.

Additionally, the bill establishes provisions for remote participation in public meetings, requiring that any remote attendance be recorded and that recordings be maintained for at least one year. It ensures that Arkansas residents have reasonable access to meetings, including through remote means, and mandates verification of identity for remote attendees. The bill also clarifies that members attending remotely will not receive mileage or per diem and prohibits certain communications among governing body members outside of public meetings to prevent unauthorized deliberation. Violations of these provisions can lead to actions being invalidated by a circuit court, reinforcing the bill's commitment to transparent governance.

Statutes affected:
Old version SB227 Original - 2-13-2025 10:34 AM: 25-19-103(6), 25-19-103
Old version SB227 V2 - 2-20-2025 11:00 AM: 25-19-103(6), 25-19-103
Old version SB227 V3 - 2-26-2025 11:14 AM: 25-19-103(6), 25-19-103
Old version SB227 V4 - 3-3-2025 10:57 AM: 25-19-103(6), 25-19-103
Old version SB227 V5 - 3-10-2025 10:27 AM: 25-19-103(6), 25-19-103
SB 227: 25-19-103(6), 25-19-103