Open meetings: teleconferences: neighborhood councils.

Assembly Member Fong's proposal to extend teleconferencing flexibility for Los Angeles neighborhood councils through 2030 builds upon practices established during the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing these advisory bodies to continue conducting remote meetings under specific conditions.

The legislation maintains existing provisions that permit neighborhood councils to hold virtual meetings when authorized by city council resolution and approved by two-thirds of the council membership. Councils must provide public access through both call-in and internet-based options, offer real-time public comment opportunities, and ensure a quorum of members participate from within city boundaries. At least one in-person meeting per year must be held at a public location with a quorum present.

For meetings during regular business hours, councils must provide a physical location - typically the local council member's office - where the public can attend and comment. Outside regular hours, councils must make reasonable accommodations for public participation, including access to necessary technology or alternative meeting locations. The bill requires councils to pause proceedings if technical disruptions prevent public access or participation through virtual platforms.

These provisions apply specifically to Los Angeles neighborhood councils, which the bill defines as advisory bodies established under the city charter to promote citizen participation in local government. The authorization expires on January 1, 2030, at which point the amended code section will be repealed unless extended by future legislation.