By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate approved and sent to Gov. Maura Healey legislation that would extend, until June 2027, the current law that allows cities and to offer remote participation at public meetings through June 2027. The option, first adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent state of emergency, was due to expire on March 31. The extension applies to public bodies and representative town meetings.

“I voted for this legislation because it has substantially increased resident participation and engagement in local government and has made it easier for public bodies to manage their meetings with both equity and transparency,” said Sen, Mike Rodrigues (D-Westport), chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “It’s been clear from municipalities across the commonwealth that they want to continue to offer this expanded access.”

“I have heard loud and clear from my colleagues, and the communities we represent, that hybrid meetings have increased access, engagement and transparency in local government,” said Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland). “There is no reason that a family obligation, a car breakdown, a disability or any other life circumstance should get in the way of making your voice heard on an issue you care about in your community.”

“One of the lessons we learned from the pandemic was that using technology for public meetings expands access and civic participation across government,” said House Speaker Ron Mariano (D-Quincy). “With this extension, we are removing barriers to participation and residents will continue to be able to be active participants in governmental decisions remotely.”