Vermont 2023-2024 Regular Session

Vermont Senate Bill S0055

Introduced
2/1/23  
Refer
2/1/23  
Report Pass
2/29/24  
Refer
2/29/24  
Report Pass
3/15/24  
Report Pass
3/15/24  
Report Pass
3/19/24  
Report Pass
3/19/24  
Engrossed
3/20/24  
Refer
3/22/24  
Refer
5/3/24  
Enrolled
5/10/24  
Enrolled
5/10/24  

Caption

An act relating to updating Vermont's Open Meeting Law

Impact

If enacted, S0055 would substantially amend existing laws that relate to the conduct of public meetings in Vermont. This includes imposing requirements for public bodies to hold all meetings in a hybrid fashion and to electronically record these meetings. The intent is to enhance public access and to ensure that meetings remain open and accountable to citizens, thus improving civic engagement and reducing barriers to participation. Additionally, the bill requires municipalities to maintain audiovisual recordings and provide them for public access after the meetings.

Summary

S0055, titled 'An act relating to updating Vermont's Open Meeting Law,' aims to modernize the regulations governing public meetings in Vermont. The bill establishes clear guidelines for accessibility to public bodies regardless of meeting format, including in-person, remote, or hybrid setups. It emphasizes the importance of transparency, mandating that the deliberations and decisions of public bodies be readily accessible to the public. The legislative intent is to create a structure that facilitates effective and inclusive participation in government processes.

Sentiment

Discussions surrounding S0055 reflect a generally positive sentiment towards enhancing public participation and accessibility in government meetings. Supporters argue that the proposed amendments are a critical step towards modernizing Vermont's Open Meeting Law. They believe that a structured approach to hybrid and electronic meetings will empower constituents and increase engagement in governmental processes. However, there are concerns from some cities and towns about the feasibility of implementing these requirements, particularly regarding technological resources and potential financial burdens.

Contention

Notably, there is contention primarily around the logistics of required compliance. Critics are particularly worried that mandating hybrid meetings may place undue burdens on local municipalities, especially those with limited resources or technological capabilities. Many stakeholders have called for additional support and training to ensure successful implementation. Furthermore, questions remain about how these changes may impact small councils or advisory bodies that may not have the capacity to incorporate such extensive requirements into their meeting practices.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

VT S0059

An act relating to amendments to Vermont’s Open Meeting Law

VT H0145

An act relating to the disruption of proceedings governed by Vermont’s Open Meeting Law

VT H0042

An act relating to temporary alternative procedures for annual municipal meetings and electronic meetings of public bodies

VT H0362

An act relating to updating statute language to reflect provider diversity

VT H0642

An act relating to requirements for public access to electronic meetings under the Open Meeting Law

VT H0638

An act relating to the Working Group on Asynchronous Open Meetings

VT S2661

Open Meetings

VT H7319

Open Meetings

VT H0649

An act relating to the Vermont Truth and Reconciliation Commission

VT HB0036

Open and Public Meetings Act Amendments

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