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DE SB243

Bill

Status

Passed

7/23/2020

Primary Sponsor

Stephanie Hansen

Click for details

Origin

Senate

150th General Assembly

AI Summary

  • Amends Delaware's Freedom of Information Act to establish new requirements for virtual public meetings conducted by public bodies and advisory bodies through electronic means.

  • Allows advisory bodies to hold virtual meetings at any time if they include an anchor location (physical location open to public with at least one member present) and provide proper public notice.

  • Permits any public body to hold fully virtual meetings during a state of emergency, with requirements for public notice, access to documents for elected members, and recording availability.

  • Requires virtual meetings to allow members and public to simultaneously hear comments and, when practicable, view recognized speakers; verify member identity; and maintain meeting minutes or transcripts.

  • Mandates that public bodies allow members with disabilities to attend meetings electronically as a reasonable accommodation (except for bodies composed entirely of elected officials), and authorizes the Governor to extend virtual meeting authority through June 30, 2021 during public health emergencies.

Legislative Description

An Act To Amend Title 29 Of The Delaware Code Relating To The Freedom Of Information Act.

Last Action

Signed by Governor

7/23/2020

Committee Referrals

Administration6/16/2020

Full Bill Text

No bill text available