Bill Description: House Bill 228 would expand Idaho's Open Meetings Law to require public bodies to allow time for public comments at most public meetings.

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Does it in any way restrict public access to information related to government activity or otherwise compromise government transparency, accountability, or election integrity? Conversely, does it increase public access to information related to government activity or increase government transparency, accountability, or election integrity?

Section 74-203, Idaho Code, is part of Idaho's Open Meetings law. Although the law contains a variety of exceptions, it says most "meetings of a governing body of a public agency" are open to the public.

House Bill 228 would amend this law to add a new provision saying, "All meetings shall allow for public comment either in person or via telephone, video conferencing, or internet website devices and similar communications equipment."

It provides a variety of details, including notice requirements and allowances for timed public comment periods.

This provision would not apply to "a special meeting held pursuant to section 74-204(2), Idaho Code." 

The bill would also amend Section 74-207, Idaho Code, to apply the requirement to legislative committee meetings. An exception exists for "extraordinary circumstances as provided specifically in the rules of procedure in either house."

Legislative committees typically allow public testimony during bill hearings but not during the initial introductions of bills (print hearings.) The wording of this bill would seem to require that public comment be allowed during print hearings as well.

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