The bill, S.B. No. 1027, introduces new provisions to the Government Code regarding the Internet broadcast and archiving of open meetings for certain governmental bodies in Texas. Specifically, it adds Sections 551.024 and 551.025, which mandate that governmental bodies with significant appropriations (over $10 million and 100 or more full-time employees) must broadcast live video and audio of their open meetings online and provide archived recordings within seven days. These recordings must be maintained on the governmental body's website for two years. Additionally, the bill allows for the use of state buildings for broadcasting and encourages competitive bidding for contracting services to minimize costs.

For governmental bodies not subject to the first section, the second section requires them to make audio or video recordings of their open meetings available online or via social media within seven days. Both sections include exemptions for circumstances such as catastrophes or technical breakdowns that prevent compliance, with a requirement to make reasonable efforts to provide the recordings afterward. The provisions will apply to open meetings held on or after September 1, 2027, and the act will take effect on September 1, 2025.

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