HB131 Alabama 2015 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

James E. Buskey

Democrat

Session

Regular Session 2015

Title

Open Meetings Act, meeting, definition, exclusion when two persons gather when no final decision is made, Sec. 36-25A-2 am'd.

Summary

HB131 would allow two members of a multi-member Alabama government body to discuss a specific matter without it counting as an Open Meetings Act meeting, as long as no final decision is made.

What This Bill Does

HB131 amends Section 36-25A-2 to better define what counts as a 'meeting' under the Open Meetings Act. It adds an exception that allows two members of a governmental body (including bodies with three members) to gather and discuss a specific matter, provided they do not reach a final decision. This carve-out means such two-person discussions would not be subject to public notice, posting, or open-meeting requirements. The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month after it is enacted and approved.

Who It Affects

• Members of Alabama governmental bodies (including three-member bodies) who may engage in two-person discussions about a specific matter without triggering Open Meetings Act requirements.
• The public, including the media and watchdogs, who may have fewer public opportunities to observe certain discussions conducted by two members.

Key Provisions

• Amends §36-25A-2 to redefine 'meeting' and clarify when Open Meetings Act rules apply.
• Adds an exception allowing two members of a governmental body to meet and discuss a specific matter without finalizing a decision; such gatherings are not considered a 'meeting' under the Act.
• Applies the two-member carve-out to bodies with three members as well as larger bodies.
• Sets the act to take effect on the first day of the third month after passage and governor's approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Open Meetings