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. For instance, from March 31, 2021, to December 31, 2021, electronic meetings are limited to situations requiring accommodation for absent members, while after December 31, 2021, they are restricted to members absent due to military duty. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for agricultural commodity groups and municipal public employee retirement systems to hold electronic meetings under broader circumstances starting February 13, 2024.

The bill also includes new requirements for conducting electronic meetings, such as ensuring two-way communication, providing advance notice on public websites, and making meeting agendas accessible. It prohibits public bodies from requiring registration for participation in electronic meetings, except for necessary mechanisms for public comment. Furthermore, it specifies that members absent due to military duty or medical conditions may participate remotely, while other members must be physically present. The bill aims to enhance transparency and accessibility in public meetings while accommodating the needs of various public bodies and their members.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 15.263