California Allows Half of Government Meetings to be Held Online
California governing bodies can now hold half of their meetings online, thanks to a new law signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom. This extension of pandemic-era rules has garnered significant interest since it was introduced in February.
The law, known as Senate Bill 544, will modify the Bagley-Keene Open Meetings Act, which requires government agencies to allow public attendance and participation in meetings. However, it also restricts the public’s ability to attend some meetings in person.
Critics argue that this new law will erode transparency and accountability, as government officials will no longer be required to be on camera during virtual meetings. They believe it will allow agencies to avoid scrutiny and avoid face-to-face public testimony.
Under the new law, up to half of all in-person government meetings can now be held virtually, with the public attending via speakerphone. However, video attendance is not required.
While the public can still participate by submitting comments telephonically or in writing, government officials are not obligated to be on camera if they are ill or facing other disclosed issues.
Supporters argue that virtual meetings actually promote public attendance by providing more convenient access. They believe it will benefit older adults, individuals with disabilities, low-income residents, rural Californians, and caregivers who face travel challenges.
Parents speak at an Orange Unified School District board meeting in Orange, Calif., on Aug. 17, 2023. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)
The bill, authored by Sen. John Laird (D-Santa Cruz), received approval with a vote of 30–5 in the Senate and 50–15 in the Assembly.
What are the arguments in favor of allowing online public meetings in California?
Proponents of the law argue that it will increase accessibility and openness in government proceedings. By allowing meetings to be held online, more people will have the opportunity to attend and participate, especially those who may face barriers such as distance or disability.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many government meetings were held virtually to comply with social distancing measures. This allowed for increased public participation as residents could join meetings from the comfort of their own homes. The new law recognizes the potential of virtual meetings to engage a wider audience and aims to continue this accessibility even after the pandemic.
“This is a step forward in modernizing our government processes and making them more accessible to the public,” said Gov. Newsom. “By allowing virtual meetings, we are promoting transparency and expanding opportunities for participation. It is important for government agencies to adapt to the changing needs of the public.”
Under the new law, government agencies will have the option to hold meetings online, in-person, or a combination of both. However, at least half of their regular meetings must be accessible for remote attendance. This ensures that the public still has the opportunity to stay informed and participate in the decision-making process.
Opponents of the law express concerns about the potential for abuse and lack of accountability. They worry that without the requirement for government officials to be on camera during virtual meetings, transparency may be compromised. Additionally, they believe that face-to-face interactions are crucial for holding officials accountable and ensuring a fair and democratic process.
Despite the controversy, other states have implemented similar measures to allow online participation in government meetings. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the benefits and challenges of virtual engagement, and many jurisdictions are exploring ways to incorporate online options into their governing processes.
The implementation of Senate Bill 544 marks California’s commitment to modernize government practices and adapt to changing circumstances. By allowing hybrid meetings, California is providing a balance between accessibility and transparency, enabling more individuals to participate while still ensuring accountability. As the world becomes increasingly digital, the integration of online platforms in government proceedings may become more common across the United States.
Overall, the extension of online meeting options in California demonstrates the ongoing evolution of democratic processes and the recognition of technology’s potential to enhance public participation. While concerns about transparency and accountability persist, the benefits of accessibility and inclusivity cannot be overlooked. As society evolves, it is crucial for governing bodies to strike a balance between tradition and innovation to best serve their constituents.
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