The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 13D.065, to authorize the use of social media for broadcasting meetings of public bodies. It establishes that members of a public body can use social media for communication with the general public, provided it does not violate existing open meeting laws. The bill introduces specific provisions for live broadcasting meetings via social media, including the option to allow public comments during the broadcast. However, it clarifies that comments made during the broadcast are not considered government records unless explicitly stated in the meeting notice.
Additionally, the bill requires public bodies to include information about the social media broadcast in their meeting notices, including access details and procedures for submitting public comments. It also emphasizes that social media cannot be used to conduct meetings if the technology does not meet the interactive requirements outlined in the law. The new provisions will take effect the day after the bill is enacted.
Statutes affected: Introduction: 13D.065