House Bill No. [insert number] proposes to enhance transparency in the operations of the Board of Ethics and the Supervisory Committee on Campaign Finance Disclosure by mandating the live broadcast of all public meetings. The bill enacts R.S. 42:1136, which requires that these meetings be recorded and archived online for public access for a minimum of two years. It defines "broadcast live" as the real-time distribution of audio and video via the internet or television. The bill also outlines exceptions, stating that the live broadcast requirement does not apply to executive sessions or private hearings, and it provides that technological failures beyond the Board's control will not constitute a violation of the law.
Additionally, the bill mandates that the Board of Ethics establish standards for the use of broadcasting equipment to maintain proper decorum during meetings. It requires the Board to utilize state-owned or leased meeting spaces equipped for broadcasting and calls for cooperation from various state entities to ensure suitable locations and equipment are available. Overall, this legislation aims to improve public access to the Board's proceedings and enhance accountability in campaign finance oversight.