The bill amends the Open Meetings Act to allow public bodies in Michigan to hold electronic meetings under specific circumstances. It establishes that electronic meetings can occur retroactively from March 18, 2020, and outlines various conditions under which these meetings are permissible. Notably, it allows for electronic attendance for members residing in areas affected by local emergencies and specifies that agricultural commodity groups and certain public bodies managing municipal employee retirement systems can meet electronically under broader circumstances starting February 13, 2024. Additionally, the bill clarifies that prerequisites for electronic meetings do not apply to specific tax tribunal proceedings.

The bill also emphasizes the need for two-way communication during electronic meetings, ensuring that both members and the public can participate effectively. It mandates that public bodies provide advance notice of electronic meetings on their websites and make meeting agendas accessible. Furthermore, it prohibits public bodies from requiring registration for participation in electronic meetings, except for necessary mechanisms to facilitate public comments. The bill includes provisions for closed sessions and specifies that only members absent due to military duty or medical conditions may participate remotely in certain meetings.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 15.263
As Passed by the House: 15.263