Enables public agencies to use any type of interactive multimedia method at public meetings. (SD2)

A BILL FOR AN ACT

SECTION 1. Section 92-3.5, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended to read as follows:

"§92-3.5 Meeting by [videoconference;] interactive multimedia method; notice; quorum. (a) A board may hold a meeting by [videoconference; provided that the videoconference system used by the board shall allow] any interactive multimedia method that allows both audio and visual interaction between all members of the board participating in the meeting and the public attending the meeting, at any [videoconference] remote location. The notice required by section 92-7 shall specify all locations at which board members will be physically present during a [videoconference] meeting[.] held pursuant to this section. The notice shall also specify that the public may attend the meeting at any of the specified locations.

(b) Any board member participating in a meeting by [videoconference] an interactive multimedia method shall be considered present at the meeting for the purpose of determining compliance with the quorum and voting requirements of the board.

(c) A meeting held by [videoconference] an interactive multimedia method shall be [terminated] recessed if both audio and video communication cannot be maintained with all locations where the meeting is being held[,]. If audio and video communication cannot be restored within a reasonable amount of time, the meeting shall be terminated, even if a quorum of the board is physically present in one location.

(d) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, for a meeting held under this section a board may select a single site as the primary meeting site, and shall be required to post an agenda and accept testimony at that site.

(e) At a meeting held under this section a board may receive testimony from a person, other than a board member, by telephone."

SECTION 2. Statutory material to be repealed is bracketed and stricken. New statutory material is underscored.

SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect upon its approval.