FL H0589

Applies public meetings requirements to boards and commissions of any entity created by general or special law, with resolutions, ordinances, and codes not binding unless adopted at properly held public meetings.

Requires at least 3 days' notice before meetings (including agenda and materials) and 24 hours' notice for emergency meetings, with at least two copies of agenda available at meeting location.

Grants public members the right to speak for at least 3 minutes on pending agenda items and matters within board jurisdiction; allows presiding officer to restrict speakers to 1 minute when 20 or more people request to speak on one item.

Requires boards and commissions to respond to public questions either publicly at the meeting or in writing within 10 days, with written responses incorporated into meeting minutes; exempts certain items from public comment requirements.

Establishes civil and criminal penalties including noncriminal infractions ($500 fine) for public officers and second-degree misdemeanors for board members knowingly violating public meetings requirements; repeals Section 286.0114; effective July 1, 2018.