The bill, S.B. No. 710, proposes amendments to the Government Code regarding the establishment and use of online message boards or similar Internet applications by certain municipal entities. It modifies Section 551.006(b) to allow for the existence of one online message board or application, while introducing a new Section 551.0061 that permits municipal governing bodies to authorize commissions or other entities to create and use additional online message boards for public communication. This new section outlines that such authorizations can last for up to two years and can be reauthorized as deemed appropriate by the governing body.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that the newly authorized online message boards are separate from those established under Section 551.006 and must comply with its requirements. It mandates that a municipal employee be designated to monitor these boards to ensure compliance with the established regulations. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 551.006 (Government Code 551)