Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Policy Social Media topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Linn‑Mar board deadlocks on first reading of social‑media policy after debate over viewpoint‑discrimination language
Summary
Directors debated proposed policy 205.5 on board‑member social‑media engagement, including whether to retain language on viewpoint discrimination; an amended first‑reading motion resulted in a 3‑3 tie and did not pass on first reading.
The Linn‑Mar board considered first reading of proposed policy 205.5, which addresses board‑member social‑media engagement. Directors discussed removing or repositioning a section about viewpoint discrimination and whether certain sections should be mandatory or recommended.
Director Britt argued the viewpoint‑discrimination language should remain or be moved to clarify legal risk and practice. "Board members should be aware that they may be prohibited from blocking individual communications... This may constitute viewpoint discrimination," she said, urging the language remain for clarity. Staff and legal counsel indicated some language had been struck from an ISB‑recommended draft and that the policy committee would revisit the wording with ISB counsel before the second reading.
A motion to approve the first reading with an amendment to retain the viewpoint‑discrimination statement and move related language failed on a 3‑3 vote; the board noted there remains an opportunity to revise the draft between readings. Directors emphasized they want policy language that balances legal accuracy with clear expectations for board conduct online.
The board will either revise language before a second reading or bring clarified guidance from ISB counsel to the next meeting.
