Cuomo Signs Public Meeting Agenda Bill

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has signed A72-B/S3255-B, a bill sponsored by New York State Assemblywoman Amy Paulin (D-Scarsdale) to increase transparency and civic participation in the process of government. 

The new law requires that records be posted on government websites or otherwise made available prior to the meetings of public bodies.  The bill was initially passed in the Assembly, and later in the Senate, where it was sponsored by Senator Stephen Saland (R-Poughkeepsie).

“I offer congratulations to Assemblywoman Paulin and Senator Saland regarding a bill that will improve the operation of government and the lives of thousands of New Yorkers,” remarked Bob Freeman, Executive Director of the Committee on Open Government.  “The public will soon have the opportunity not only to listen to public discussions but also to review the records that are the subject of those discussions.” 

As a result of the law, which amends the public officers law, members of the public will have access to documents before scheduled open meetings of public bodies, such as school boards, state agencies, and village, town, and city boards.  If the public body maintains a website, the records will be placed online as soon as possible prior to the meetings.  This measure of transparency will serve to increase the involvement of the public, as well as reduce the need for Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) requests, which can be costly for state agencies to process.   

“It is an important law, because offering the public the opportunity to more effectively participate in the process helps elected bodies conduct fair evaluations,” stated Paulin.  “I applaud Governor Cuomo for his commitment to accountability and open government, and I look forward to working together on future initiatives.”