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Relating to the right of a member of the public to address the
governing body of a political subdivision at an open meeting of the
body.
No fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
HB 2840 would require governmental bodies to allow any member of the public who wishes to address the body regarding an item on an agenda for an open meeting to do so before or during the body’s consideration of the item. The bill would also require governmental bodies to give non-English speakers who are using a translator to have double the time limit of a speaker not using a translator. Lastly, the bill would outlaw governmental bodies from prohibiting public criticism of the governmental body, including criticism of any act, omission, policy, procedure, program, or service.
Texas Action supports HB 2840 for promoting the principles of limited government and individual liberty. This bill would serve in the interest of transparency and accountability of governmental bodies, and would help to promote the rights of the public to address and criticize their government free of unreasonable restrictions.
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