The proposed bill would amend current statutes regarding public meetings by establishing specific requirements for open calls to the public. Under the new provisions, if a public body decides to make an open call, it must occur at the beginning of the meeting and prior to any official business being conducted. Additionally, if the open call exceeds thirty minutes, the public body has the option to continue it later in the meeting. The bill also mandates that if individuals are required to submit requests to speak, they must be allowed to do so until the open call concludes. Furthermore, it prohibits scheduling a meeting that only includes an open call before or after another meeting of the same public body.

The bill clarifies that the requirements for open calls do not limit the public body from making additional calls during the meeting. It also specifies that certain activities, such as prayers, pledges, recognition of individuals or organizations, and the adoption of the agenda, do not count as official business. These changes aim to enhance public participation and transparency in meetings of public bodies.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 38-431.01
Senate Engrossed Version: 38-431.01