Open Meetings Clarification Emergency Declaration Resolution of 2026

This resolution amends the District of Columbia's Open Meetings Act to clarify what constitutes a "meeting" and create exceptions for certain confidential discussions. It allows public bodies to hold private briefings about potential terrorist or public health threats as long as no official action is taken, and exempts meetings between the Council and the Mayor from open meeting requirements when no official action occurs. The bill also defines a meeting as open to the public if the public can reasonably view or hear it during the meeting, or as soon as technologically feasible afterward. These changes aim to enable government officials to coordinate on urgent matters like budget negotiations and security threats without premature public disclosure, while still ensuring official decisions are made publicly.