This bill amends the existing law regarding public meeting minutes to enhance transparency and accountability. Specifically, it requires that the minutes of all public meetings include the start time and end time of the meeting, as well as the printed name of the recording secretary who produced the minutes. The language in the current law that previously required only the names of members, persons appearing before the public bodies, and a brief description of the subject matter discussed and final decisions is modified to include these new requirements, while the phrase "and" is deleted from the list of items to be included in the minutes.

Additionally, the bill maintains the existing provisions that allow for public access to meeting minutes, which must be recorded promptly and made available for public inspection within five business days. It also stipulates that notices of meetings must be posted in appropriate locations or published in local newspapers at least 24 hours in advance, with exceptions for emergencies. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage, ensuring that public bodies adhere to these new documentation standards to improve public oversight of governmental meetings.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 91-A:2
As Amended by the Senate: 91-A:2
Version adopted by both bodies: 91-A:2