Extension Of Remote Open Meeting Bill Remains Pending In Massachusetts Legislature

On February 15, 2022, Governor Baker signed into law a new session law, Chapter 22 of the Acts of 2022, which extends certain COVID-19 related measures including provisions regarding holding remote meetings and remote public access to meetings. This extension expires on July 15, 2022.

The Senate budget bill includes a provision that would extend the July 15, 2022 expiration to December 15, 2023. The Senate budget amendment is under consideration by the Budget Conference Committee. In addition, the Legislature’s Joint Committee on State Administration is considering bills that would make permanent changes to the Open Meeting Law. If the Legislature does not enact any changes or extensions, then beginning on July 15 meetings of public bodies will need to resume taking place in person at locations that are open and accessible to the public with at least a quorum of the public body physically present.

Our office is continuing to monitor the status of this legislation and will provide timely updates as they become available.

If you have any questions regarding the content of this update, or any other questions regarding the open meeting law, please contact us.

 This update is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice.