Open meetings: meeting and teleconference requirements.

Senator Durazo's comprehensive update to California's Ralph M. Brown Act mandates expanded public access to local government meetings through modern technology and language accommodations. The legislation requires city councils and county boards to provide remote participation options via two-way audiovisual platforms or telephone services, while establishing new standards for meeting notices, agenda translations, and public comment opportunities.

The bill requires local agencies to provide meeting agendas in languages spoken by 20% or more of the county population with limited English proficiency. Agencies must implement systems for requesting interpretation services and publicize these options online. The legislation also expands the definition of legislative bodies subject to open meeting requirements to include certain private entities receiving local agency funds and advisory committees with ongoing responsibilities.

New provisions authorize various public bodies to conduct remote meetings under specific conditions through 2030. Health authorities, neighborhood councils, student organizations, and multi-jurisdictional agencies may utilize teleconferencing when meeting requirements for public access, quorum participation, and advance notice. During emergencies, agencies can hold virtual meetings after determining in-person gatherings pose safety risks.

The bill strengthens enforcement by expanding violations subject to legal challenge and extending the timeline for filing cease-and-desist letters from 9 to 12 months. It prohibits special meetings regarding personnel matters unless four-fifths of members approve proceeding. Closed session actions must now include fiscal impact estimates in public reports.

To promote participation, especially among underserved communities, agencies must maintain dedicated meeting webpages with calendars, procedures, and recordings. They must actively distribute meeting information to media outlets, community organizations, and interested parties who request notifications.