Bill

HB 2668

83(R) - 2013
Technology

Vote Recommendation

Yes
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Positive
  • Neutral

Author(s)

Hubert Vo

Bill Caption

Relating to requirements applicable to meetings of the governing board of certain junior college districts.

Fiscal Notes

No fiscal implication to the State is anticipated. The provision of the bill would require the governing board of the junior college district with a total student enrollment of more than 20,000 in any semester of the preceding academic year to post its meeting materials on its website and broadcast its open meetings. The bill would also require the community college to archive the broadcast on its website. Based on a survey of several community colleges, it is assumed that any additional costs to community colleges that meet the criteria could be accomplished by utilizing existing resources.

Bill Analysis

Summary: HB 2668 would require junior college districts that exceed 20,000 students in the previous semester to have their governing boards post on the districts' websites the meeting agendas and supplemental information, broadcast meetings, and archive recorded meetings. Exceptions include maintaining privacy for legally certified confidential information and occurrences that take place outside of governmental control.

Analysis: HB 2668 would would make applicable state schools more accountable. This legislation gives the public accessibility to pertinent information and holds the governing boards accountable, knowing that their discussions will be open for public review. Taxpayers provide the funding for university and college operations, students attend these universities and colleges, and parents fund their students' education. This legislation would provide these stakeholders with the easier access to information discussed in the board meetings. We support HB 2668.