AN ACT RELATING TO STATE AFFAIRS AND GOVERNMENT -- OPEN MEETINGS

SB 2612 amends Rhode Island's open meetings law to allow advisory bodies (non-decision-making groups like commissions or committees) to participate in public meetings via videoconferencing under specific conditions. It permits remote participation for members with disabilities who cannot attend physically, requiring approval from the Governor's Commission on Disabilities and ensuring clear audio/video for all participants. The bill also specifically authorizes University of Rhode Island board members to join meetings remotely if audio/video clarity and quorum requirements are met. These changes apply only to approved scenarios and do not alter the requirement for meetings to remain open to the public.