H.145 is a bill introduced by Representative Harrison of Chittenden that aims to enhance the management of public meetings in Vermont by allowing public bodies to establish rules regarding public comment and the conduct of attendees. The bill explicitly authorizes the chairs of public bodies to create regulations that govern public participation, including the ability to remove individuals who disrupt meetings. It also amends the existing disorderly conduct statute to include "substantial impairment of the effective conduct of a meeting" as a basis for a violation, thereby reinforcing the importance of maintaining order during public proceedings.

Key provisions of the bill include the insertion of language that emphasizes the balance between citizens' rights to free speech and assembly and the need for effective governmental operations. It allows public bodies to adopt rules that may prohibit disruptive behavior and outlines the process for removing individuals who violate these rules. Additionally, the bill specifies that individuals removed from a meeting may be barred from attending in-person meetings for up to 60 days, although they can still participate electronically. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 1-312, 13-1026