Commentary at Public Meetings (H 6180, S 603 A)

We supported a bill which would have allowed for members of the public to testify on an item on a public meetings agenda even if the item has been withdrawn or postponed. Such commentary is beneficial should the item be heard at a later date or revised prior to its new hearing, and would have only enhanced the ability for the public to participate in such public meetings. Residents in some communities have expressed frustration about attending meetings to speak out on important public matters, only to find the item removed from the agenda at the last minute and the public body barring testimony on the subject. Unfortunately, while the bill passed the Senate, it died in the House.