Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Higher Education Committee |
HB 2313
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Concerning the meeting procedures of the boards of trustees and boards of regents of institutions of higher education.
Sponsors: Representatives Zeiger, Carlyle, Probst, Wilcox, Anderson, Haler, Fagan, Reykdal, Springer, Buys, Pollet, Wylie, Crouse, Jinkins, Moscoso and Overstreet.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/19/12
Staff: Jill Reinmuth (786-7134).
Background:
The Open Public Meetings Act (Act) requires that all meetings of governing bodies of public agencies be open and public with certain limited exceptions. Public agencies include state educational institutions, such as universities, colleges, and community college districts. Governing bodies include multimember boards, such as boards of regents and boards of trustees. The Act outlines certain procedures for meetings at which action is taken by governing boards of public agencies. It does not require governing bodies to allow the public to speak at public meetings.
Summary of Bill:
The boards of regents of the University of Washington and Washington State University may follow procedures for open public meetings in the Open Public Meetings Act. The boards of trustees of regional universities, The Evergreen State College, and the community college districts must follow such procedures. All of these boards must provide time for public comment at meetings.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.