Legal Definitions - open-meeting law

An open-meeting law, often referred to as a Sunshine Law, is legislation designed to ensure transparency in government by requiring that meetings of public governmental bodies be open to the public. These laws typically mandate public notice of meetings, allow citizens to attend and sometimes participate, and require that records of these meetings be accessible. The primary goal is to prevent government agencies from conducting business in secret, thereby promoting accountability and public trust.

Here are some examples illustrating the application of open-meeting laws:

• Example 1: City Council Debate on a New Park

  The City Council of Oakwood is considering a proposal to build a new public park, which involves significant public funds and potential land acquisition. Before making a decision, the council holds a series of public meetings where citizens can voice their opinions, ask questions, and review the proposed plans. The dates, times, and agendas for these meetings are published in advance on the city's website and in local newspapers.

  This illustrates an open-meeting law because the city council, as a public governmental body, is required to conduct its discussions and decision-making process regarding a public project in an open forum, with prior notice, allowing the community to observe and participate.

• Example 2: State University Board of Regents Discussing Tuition

  The Board of Regents for the State University System is meeting to discuss potential tuition increases for the upcoming academic year. This board, which oversees multiple public universities, must hold its deliberations in a publicly accessible meeting. Students, parents, and faculty are permitted to attend, and the meeting minutes, including any votes taken, are subsequently made available to the public.

  This demonstrates an open-meeting law in action because the Board of Regents, as a public entity managing state-funded institutions, is obligated to conduct its business, even on sensitive financial matters like tuition, transparently and in public view, rather than behind closed doors.

• Example 3: County School Board Curriculum Review

  A county school board is reviewing and potentially adopting new textbooks and curriculum standards for its elementary schools. The board schedules a public meeting to present the proposed changes, hear from educators and parents, and ultimately vote on the new materials. An announcement detailing the meeting's purpose, time, and location is posted at the school district office and on its website several days beforehand.

  This exemplifies an open-meeting law because the school board, a local governmental body responsible for public education, must conduct its decision-making process for curriculum changes in a public setting. This allows stakeholders like parents and teachers to be informed and provide input before final decisions are made.