CA SB544

Establishes new provisions allowing state bodies to hold teleconferenced meetings with at least one member physically present at each location and a majority physically present at the same location, with exceptions for disability-related remote participation that counts toward the quorum.

Requires state bodies to provide public access to teleconferenced meetings through teleconference telephone numbers, internet websites, and physical addresses posted on agendas, with equivalent access for remote participants as provided to members.

Mandates members visibly appear on camera during open portions of meetings accessible online unless technologically impracticable, and requires members to announce reasons for turning off cameras due to connectivity issues.

Requires all votes during teleconferenced meetings to be by rollcall with public reporting of each member's vote or abstention, and requires members participating remotely to disclose whether other adults are present and describe their relationship.

Permits online meeting platforms to require login information but allows attendees to use pseudonyms or anonymous information, and sunsets the new teleconference provisions on January 1, 2026, with different permanent rules for advisory bodies taking effect that date.