FL H0285

Amends Florida Statutes Section 286.011 to require all public meetings of governmental boards and commissions to provide an opportunity for members of the public to be heard before or during consideration of any agenda item on which official action will be taken.

Allows boards and commissions subject to Chapter 120 to adopt rules that may limit individual speaking time, require group representatives instead of all group members to speak, or prescribe procedures for individuals to request to be heard.

Exempts from public comment requirements official acts taken to address emergency situations affecting public health, welfare, or safety, and ministerial acts with no substantive discretion.

Maintains existing provisions on meeting transparency, recording of minutes, criminal and civil penalties for violations, attorney's fees awards, and exceptions for private attorney-client sessions regarding pending litigation.

Takes effect July 1, 2011.