This bill amends current law to allow public bodies in New Jersey to conduct meetings, vote, and receive public comments through electronic means without the previous restriction that such activities could only occur during a declared state of emergency. Specifically, it removes the requirement that these provisions apply only during emergencies, thereby enabling public bodies to utilize electronic communication for meetings at any time. The bill ensures that any meeting conducted electronically must still be open to the public in accordance with existing transparency laws.

Additionally, the bill allows public bodies to provide electronic notice of meetings instead of traditional adequate notice during emergencies, without being deemed in violation of existing laws. It emphasizes that public business discussed in such meetings should be limited to matters essential for government operations related to the emergency declaration. The Department of Community Affairs and the State Board of Education are authorized to adopt regulations to implement these changes, which will take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 10:4-9.3