Bay State News

With virtual access to public meetings set to expire on March 31, 2025, a coalition of advocates is urging for permanent reforms to ensure hybrid access remains available. This group includes the ACLU of Massachusetts, Boston Center for Independent Living, Disability Law Center, Common Cause Massachusetts, League of Women Voters of Massachusetts, Massachusetts Newspaper Publishers Association, MASSPIRG, New England First Amendment Coalition, and New England Newspaper & Press Association.

The coalition released a statement highlighting the benefits experienced over the past four years: "For four years, people in Massachusetts have been able to participate in state and local democracy in unprecedented ways; now it’s time to strengthen the infrastructure of our 21st-century democracy — not retreat from progress." They emphasized that hybrid access has been significant for those who face challenges attending exclusively in-person meetings due to disabilities or caregiving responsibilities. "Universal hybrid access is essential going forward," they added.

The group warns that without legislative action this session, many could be excluded when meetings return solely to in-person formats. "Accessibility makes our democracy stronger," they stated.

The coalition backs a legislative proposal (H.3040/S.2024) designed to enhance open meeting accessibility by mandating both in-person and remote attendance options. This bill is currently under consideration by the Joint Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.

Additionally, the coalition expressed concerns about the Governor’s Municipal Empowerment Act. They argue that giving public bodies discretion over remote or hybrid meeting options could limit public participation. The Legislature's current support for hybrid access during public hearings demonstrates its viability and importance as per the coalition's perspective on reforming the Open Meeting Law.