The bill amends existing laws regarding emergency meetings of public agencies in Washington State, specifically RCW 36.32.090, 42.30.060, and 42.30.230. It allows county legislative authorities to hold special meetings outside of the county seat or remotely when expedited action is necessary to address an emergency. Notice for such meetings must be provided as outlined in RCW 42.30.080, unless exempted by RCW 42.30.070 and 42.30.080(4). Additionally, the minutes of these emergency meetings must be recorded and made available for public inspection.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that public agencies can conduct remote meetings or limit physical attendance during emergencies, ensuring that the public has access to listen to the proceedings through various means without incurring additional costs. It emphasizes that no actions can be taken during these meetings unless the public has been provided with a listening option. The legislation also allows governing bodies that previously held remote meetings to continue doing so without a declared emergency, provided they maintain public access to the proceedings.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 36.32.090, 42.30.060, 42.30.230