NY A03615

Requires all public bodies to use web-based videoconferencing with closed captioning capability for meetings, changing from discretionary to mandatory; elected body meetings must have a quorum physically present, while appointed boards need only the presiding officer present in person

Mandates meetings be recorded with closed captioning, posted on public websites within five business days, and retained for at least five years; public must be able to participate remotely in real time with closed captioning and American Sign Language interpretation upon request

Removes "to the extent practicable" language from multiple provisions, requiring agencies to post meeting documents at least 24 hours in advance and broadcast open meetings on their websites in real-time

Makes permanent the videoconferencing provisions from Chapter 56 of the Laws of 2022, which were previously set to expire July 1, 2026

Establishes the Municipal Hybrid Meeting Trust Fund and a competitive grant program administered by the Office of Information Technology Services to help municipalities expand remote and hybrid meeting capabilities, with preference given to rural areas; these provisions expire January 1, 2030