House Bill No. 648, introduced by Representative Brass, amends existing law to enhance participation in public meetings for specific groups. The bill allows members of public bodies who are parents or legal guardians of children under the age of five, as well as providers of early childhood supports or services, to participate and vote in meetings via electronic means. This provision is in addition to existing allowances for members with disabilities recognized by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The bill also specifies that public bodies primarily focused on issues related to families with young children can conduct an unlimited number of meetings electronically.

The amendments to R.S. 42:17.2(F)(2) and 17.2.1(A) include the removal of the previous limitation on the number of electronic meetings for public bodies focused on disabilities or assisting military families, now extending this flexibility to those addressing the needs of families with children under five. The bill retains the requirement for public bodies to publish schedules indicating which meetings will be held electronically and which will be in person, ensuring transparency and accessibility for all participants.

Statutes affected:
HB648 Original: 42:14(E)(1), 42:2(F)(2), 42:1(A)
HB648 Engrossed: 42:2(F)(2), 42:1(A)