This 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 of 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 introduces a new provision for the Children Trust Michigan Board to hold electronic meetings under similar conditions.

The bill also emphasizes the requirement for two-way communication during electronic meetings, ensuring that all participants can hear and be heard. It mandates that public bodies provide advance notice of electronic meetings on their websites, detailing how the public can participate and access the meeting. 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