HB 503 Summary

• Allows boards to conduct remote public meetings using interactive conference technology without requiring in-person attendance at nonpublic locations where board members are physically present.

• Remote meetings must include at least one public location open to the public and provide public access to video/audio streaming and remote testimony options, with recording of meetings made available when practicable until minutes are posted.

• Board members participating remotely are considered present for quorum and voting purposes; votes must be conducted by roll call unless unanimous, and board members must announce who, if anyone, is present at their nonpublic location.

• Meetings automatically recess for up to one hour to restore audiovisual or audio communication when connection is lost; if not restored within an hour without reasonable notice of alternative continuation, the meeting terminates automatically.

• Permits boards to require attendees at in-person meetings to provide contact information for contact tracing purposes and comply with safety measures (masks, distancing) when a governor has declared a state of emergency for a contagious illness and the board reasonably believes precautions are necessary due to continuing prevalence of that illness.