This bill amends the existing law regarding the documentation of public meeting minutes. It mandates that minutes must now include the start time and end time of the meeting, as well as the printed name of the recording secretary responsible for producing the minutes. The language that is being deleted from the current law is the phrase "and" before the new insertions, which indicates a restructuring of the requirements for what must be included in the minutes. The bill also retains the requirement for minutes to include the names of members present, individuals appearing before the public bodies, a brief description of the subject matter discussed, and the names of members who made or seconded motions.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of timely recording and public access to these minutes, stipulating that they must be available for public inspection within five business days after the meeting. The effective date of this act is set for 60 days following its passage. Overall, the bill aims to enhance transparency and accountability in public meetings by ensuring that essential details are consistently documented and accessible to the public.

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