SB 1497 Summary

• Amends 25 O.S. 2011, Section 314 to allow any person to bring civil suits for declaratory or injunctive relief following violations of the Open Meeting Act.

• Entitles successful plaintiffs to recover reasonable attorney fees in civil suits challenging Open Meeting Act violations.

• Allows public bodies to recover reasonable attorney fees from plaintiffs if the court finds the civil suit was clearly frivolous.

• Retains existing criminal penalties of up to $500 fine or one year imprisonment for willful violations of the Open Meeting Act.

• Effective date: November 1, 2014.