The bill amends the Open Meetings Act to clarify the circumstances under which public bodies in Michigan can hold electronic meetings. It allows for electronic meetings in various situations, including accommodating absent members due to military duty or medical conditions, and specifies that public bodies responsible for agricultural commodity groups, municipal public employee retirement systems, joint agencies, and licensing boards can also meet electronically under certain conditions. Notably, members attending electronically from a licensing board are prohibited from voting on issues related to rule processing.
Additionally, the bill outlines requirements for conducting electronic meetings, such as ensuring two-way communication, providing public access to meeting agendas, and posting advance notices on public websites. It emphasizes that no registration or personal information is required for public participation, and it establishes that members absent due to military duty or medical conditions may participate remotely, while others must be physically present. The bill also includes provisions for public comment and accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Statutes affected: House Introduced Bill: 15.263