This bill mandates that all public entities in Arkansas must record their public meetings in video format and post these recordings online. Specifically, it amends Arkansas Code 25-19-106(d) to require that all officially scheduled, special, and called open public meetings be recorded as video recordings with both sound and picture, replacing the previous requirement for sound-only recordings. Additionally, it stipulates that these video recordings must be maintained for at least one year and made available for reproduction upon request.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a requirement for public entities to post the video recordings on their websites within 24 hours of the meeting. If a public entity does not have a website, they are required to upload the recordings to a social media account they maintain. The bill also clarifies that certain entities, such as executive sessions and volunteer fire departments, are exempt from these recording and posting requirements.

Statutes affected:
HB 1836: 25-19-106(d)