The Open Meetings Clarification Emergency Amendment Act of 2026 amends the Open Meetings Act to enhance the definition of a "meeting" and clarify the conditions under which public bodies can conduct briefings on potential terrorist or public health threats without taking official action. The bill specifies that a meeting includes any gathering of a quorum of a public body where public business is discussed, and it introduces exemptions for informal gatherings and press conferences. Additionally, it allows for meetings between the Council and the Mayor to be exempt from the act as long as no official decisions are made during those meetings.

The bill also outlines requirements for public accessibility to meetings, stating that a meeting is considered open if reasonable steps are taken to allow public viewing or listening, or if that is not feasible, as soon as possible afterward. It amends various sections of the law to ensure clarity in the application of these provisions, including adjustments to the notice requirements and accommodations for public attendance. Furthermore, the applicability date for expanded financial reporting requirements for certain boards and commissions is clarified to begin on October 17, 2026.