Making local Government Meetings More Accessible
Since early 2020, in response to the epidemic, the Massachusetts legislature suspended provisions of the Open Meeting Law to enable public bodies to carry out their responsibilities remotely, with virtual access by members of the public. This has led to greater transparency and participation – particularly for people with disabilities, caregiving responsibilities, and limited transportation.
When the temporary suspension expires at the end of March 2023, we should not regress to in-person meetings only. Nor should we switch exclusively to virtual meetings. It’s time for permanent reform that embraces hybrid meeting practices, expanding transparency and participation for the public and officials alike.
So many decisions are made at the local level, and ensuring access to local government meetings are pivotal to strengthening our communities.
There is a new proposal on Beacon Hill to keep local government meetings open and accessible by allowing the public to attend meetings in person or remotely.
Register here
Panelists include:
Gavi Wolf, Legislative Director at ACLU MA
Robert Ambrogi, Executive Director at Massachusetts Newspapers Publishers Association
Nancy Brumback, Election Laws Legislative Specialist at League of Women Voters of Massachusetts
Moderated by Deirdre Cummings, Legislative Director at MASSPIRG.
After the presentations from our panelists, there will be a Q&A so that guests will be able to get your questions answered.
This panel will be a great opportunity to learn more about this proposal to keep local government meetings open and accessible.