Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass bill that amends open meetings law by limiting last-minute changes to public meeting agendas in Pennsylvania.

Highlights:

• Prohibits a public agency from taking official action on a matter of business at a meeting if the matter was not included in the required notification prior to the meeting (Sec. 1).

• Authorizes a public agency to take official action on a matter of business that is not listed on a meeting agenda if both of the following conditions are met (Sec. 1):

• The matter arises within 24 hours prior to the meeting; and

• The matter is minor in nature and does not involve the expenditure of funds or entering of contracts.

• Authorizes a public agency to take official action on a minor administrative approval not listed on a meeting agenda if its delay would cause hardship (Sec. 1).

• Specifies that such approvals may include personnel actions, legal filings, small purchases, time sensitive grant applications, small borrowings, and minor permit approvals (Sec. 1).

• Requires a public agency to obtain an opinion from its solicitor or chief legal counsel to determine if a proposed official action falls under this section prior to taking action (Sec. 1).

• Specifies that this act takes effect 60 days after passage (Sec. 2).

Full Bill Text