This bill allows newspapers to be utilized by individuals and public bodies for the purpose of complying with legal requirements for public notices and legal advertisements from January 1, 2024, through December 31, 2024. It specifies that newspapers, whether in print or electronic format, will be deemed eligible for these purposes until March 1, 2025. The bill also establishes that the cost for publishing public notices or legal advertisements shall not exceed the rates set by existing law, and it prohibits charging fees or requiring registration for viewing notices published electronically.
Additionally, the bill defines "electronic format" as any internet website or technology that operates for publication by or for a newspaper. The act is set to take effect immediately, rather than on December 31, 2024, as previously stated. This legislation aims to ensure that public bodies can continue to meet their legal obligations for public notices without interruption, regardless of the format used for publication.