ME LD1399

Members of public bodies or attendees at executive sessions are prohibited from disclosing matters discussed without approval by a recorded 3/5 vote of members present

Public bodies may investigate confidentiality violation allegations by majority vote, form an ethics committee to conduct the investigation, and hold adjudicatory hearings in executive session

Violations proven by preponderance of evidence allow the body to prohibit the violator, by 2/3 vote, from participating in future executive sessions, accessing confidential information, or attending sessions on matters where they have a conflict of interest

Prohibitions may be for definite or indefinite periods, with appeals allowed to the body every 30 days and to Superior Court

Decisions may be rescinded by 2/3 vote or upon expiration of terms of 2/3 of the members who participated in the original vote