Ensuring open and accessible local government meetings

MASSPIRG and a broad coalition met with Senate President Karen Spilka on a proposal to keep open up local government meetings.

Since early 2020, the Legislature has suspended provisions of the Open Meeting Law to enable public bodies to carry out their responsibilities remotely, with virtual access and participation by members of the public. This has led to higher participation from the public and board members.  As good government practices have evolved, many public bodies have combined the best of old and new, enabling both in-person and remote attendance.

When the temporary rules expire, we want to ensure we don’t go back to in-person or virtual meetings only.  Requiring hybrid access for government meetings will ensure that everyone — people with disabilities, people with caregiving responsibilities, and people with limited transportation — can follow and participate in local government activity that very directly impacts their lives.