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Committee extends permissive virtual/hybrid meeting option for counties amid notice and verification questions
Summary
HB 1056 extends a permissive option allowing counties and quorum courts to hold virtual or hybrid public meetings when the governor declares a statewide emergency; committee passed the bill after testimony from county representatives and a public commenter who warned of remote-hearing issues for property owners filing appeals related to liens.
Senator Lance Eads presented HB 1056 — part of the Association of Arkansas Counties package — to extend a permissive authority (previously expired Dec. 31) that allows counties and other local bodies to hold virtual or hybrid public meetings when a statewide emergency exists. Sponsors said the language is permissive, not mandatory, and that the emergency clause provides continuity while counties adapt technology.
Senator Garner asked…
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