The bill amends the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act, specifically 25 O.S. 2021, Section 311, to enhance the notice requirements for public meetings held by various public bodies. It mandates that all public bodies provide written notice of their regularly scheduled meetings by December of each year, detailing the date, time, and location for the following calendar year. Additionally, it requires that public bodies display public notice of meetings at least 24 hours in advance through various methods, including posting at their principal office or on their website. A significant addition is the requirement for public bodies to maintain an email distribution system for meeting notices, allowing individuals to subscribe without charge.
Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions for the management of the email distribution system, allowing public bodies to require participants to confirm their subscription biennially. If a participant fails to confirm, they may be removed from the system, although they can rejoin later. The bill also clarifies that public notice for special meetings must be given at least 48 hours in advance, with specific requirements for written notice to interested parties. Overall, these amendments aim to improve transparency and accessibility of public meetings in Oklahoma.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 25-311
Amended And Engrossed: 25-311
Enrolled (final version): 25-311