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Committee advances extension of alternate remote-meeting regime for state boards until 2030
Summary
SB 470 would extend the sunset on the alternative remote-participation rules enacted by SB 544 to Jan. 1, 2030; supporters said the alternative has increased participation, while press and open-government groups warned it could erode in-person public access if not narrowly tailored.
Sen. Laird told the committee SB 470 extends the sunset for the alternative remote participation framework enacted in 2023 (SB 544) and would push the sunset to Jan. 1, 2030. "This system has worked," Laird said, adding the extension provides time to reassess before a future sunset.
Laird described the bill as optional for state boards and commissions: boards may continue using the existing law or opt into the alternative. Under the alternate system, a majority of members must be present at the main location, remote participating members must keep cameras on, and if the remote system fails the meeting must pause for remote participants.
Ethan Rehick (identified in testimony as executive director of the Little Hoover Commission) said survey results indicated widespread increases in public attendance and cost savings when agencies used remote technology during the pandemic. "We think this bill increases diversity and equity in state government," he told the committee.
Aaron Carruthers, executive director of the State Council on Developmental Disabilities, said the flexibilities allowed council members with disabilities and caregiving responsibilities to participate and to lead meetings while maintaining transparency: "The flexibility in the current law allows us very way various ways to meet, conduct the business transparently, and remain available to the public."
Witnesses in opposition included Marshall Arnwein, who said the measure "would weaken the Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act by significantly reducing transparency and accountability," and representatives of several press and open-government organizations, who said the bill should preserve in-person public access and require more tailored exceptions for members' hardships.
Committee members discussed safeguards including the requirement that cameras be on for remote members and that an in-person quorum be present before remote participation counts. The committee passed SB 470 to the Appropriations Committee; the chair announced the motion had 12 supporting votes at the call and left the roll open for additions.
