The proposed bill, titled "An Act authorizing remote participation at town meeting," seeks to amend Chapter 39 of the General Laws in Massachusetts by adding a new section, 10B. This section allows town moderators, in consultation with select boards and local public safety or health officials, to conduct town meetings through remote participation or a hybrid format that combines in-person and remote attendance. The bill outlines specific requirements for notifying the public about remote meetings, including the need for a clear notice detailing the platform to be used, consultations with relevant authorities, and a certification that the technology has been tested for effective participation.
Additionally, the bill establishes guidelines for the technology used in remote participation, ensuring that it allows for secure voting, identification of participants, and the ability to maintain order during the meeting. It mandates that registered voters wishing to participate remotely must submit a request at least 48 hours in advance, and it provides procedures for handling quorum determinations and voting processes. The bill also requires that all remote or hybrid meetings be recorded and made publicly available for a minimum of 90 days after the meeting concludes.