Open Meetings - As enacted, requires a local governing body subject to the open meetings laws to reserve a period of public comment to provide the public with the opportunity to comment on any matter germane to the jurisdiction of the governing body, regardless of whether the matter is listed on the agenda for the meeting. - Amends TCA Title 8, Chapter 44.

HB 22 requires Tennessee local governing bodies (like city councils and school boards) to set aside dedicated time during public meetings for community members to comment on **any issue relevant to their work**, not just topics listed on the agenda. This amendment to Tennessee’s open meetings law (TCA Title 8, Chapter 44) expands public participation by mandating a formal comment period for all germane matters. The key change ensures residents can address concerns before the governing body votes, regardless of whether those topics appear on official meeting agendas. This applies to all covered local government bodies across Tennessee, enhancing transparency in decision-making.