This bill amends the process for disqualifying a member of a local land use board by making the board's vote on disqualification binding rather than advisory. Under the new provisions, when uncertainty arises regarding a member's potential disqualification, the board must vote on the matter if requested by the member in question or another board member. The member seeking clarification must clearly state the circumstances causing the uncertainty, and the board will have the opportunity to ask questions and deliberate before voting. Additionally, if a member believes another should recuse themselves, they must present the relevant facts and evidence, allowing for rebuttal and further discussion before the vote.

The bill also specifies that any request for a vote on disqualification must occur prior to or at the start of any required public hearing. The previous language indicating that such votes were "advisory and non-binding" has been replaced with the new binding requirement. This change aims to enhance the accountability and clarity of the disqualification process within local land use boards. The act will take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 673:14
As Amended by the House: 673:14
HB1759 text: 673:14