Texas Senate Bill SB341

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the Internet broadcast or audio recording of certain open meetings.

Impact

The bill specifically impacts governmental bodies with over $10 million in appropriations and 100 or more full-time employees. Such bodies will be required to provide live video and audio broadcasts of their open meetings on their official websites, as well as maintain archives of these recordings for at least two years. Secondary provisions apply to smaller governmental bodies, requiring them to make audio recordings of their meetings available within a week after the meeting. This is a significant move towards greater governmental accountability and public engagement.

Summary

SB341 is a legislative bill aimed at enhancing transparency and public access to governmental meetings in Texas. It mandates that specific governmental bodies within the executive and legislative branches that receive substantial funding and employ a significant number of full-time employees must live stream their open meetings over the internet. This measure is intended to increase citizen engagement and oversight by allowing the public to access government proceedings remotely.

Contention

While proponents of SB341 argue that it fosters greater transparency and facilitates public engagement, there may be concerns regarding the implementation and cost of compliance. Critics may question whether all governmental bodies have the resources to adequately manage the technological demands and whether such transparency adequately guarantees accountability without proper oversight measures. There may also be discussions focused on the exemptions provided for technical issues or catastrophes that could prevent compliance, which some may view as loopholes.