2013 House Bill 5194

Increase Open Meeting Act rigor

Introduced in the House

Dec. 11, 2013

Introduced by Rep. Tom McMillin (R-45)

To establish that if a public body takes an action while in violation of the state Open Meetings Act, and then later re-enacts the decision while in compliance with the OMA, this does not exempt public officials from the misdemeanor and civil fine penalties the OMA authorizes for knowingly holding a meeting that violates its public notice and open-door requirements.

Referred to the Committee on Oversight

March 25, 2014

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the amendments be adopted and that the bill then pass.

May 20, 2014

Amendment offered

To make circuit courts in the county where an alleged violation takes place the venue for hearing complaints against a local government body.

The amendment passed by voice vote

May 21, 2014

Passed in the House 90 to 17 (details)

Received in the Senate

May 27, 2014

Referred to the Committee on Government Operations