The bill H. 3200 aims to enhance transparency in school board meetings in South Carolina by mandating that all public school governing bodies, including those of charter and special schools, provide live electronic access to their meetings. Specifically, the bill requires these governing bodies to adopt policies that ensure meetings are accessible via livestream, with exceptions only for lawful executive sessions. If livestreaming is not feasible, a complete audio and video recording of the meeting must be made available on the governing body's website within two business days. The State Board of Education is tasked with creating a model livestream meeting policy that includes best practices, publicizing meeting availability, and penalties for noncompliance.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that each governing body must adopt a local policy based on the State Board's model within three months of its adoption. This local policy must be developed during a livestreamed meeting and cannot hinder in-person public participation. The bill also allows for extensions in compliance for governing bodies with limited broadband access. All provisions of the act must be implemented by July 1, 2027, and the act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 59-19-85
Latest Version: 59-19-85