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Consider adopting a policy regarding disruption of remote access during Ralph M. Brown Act meetings of the Board of Supervisors as required by SB 707
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Published Notice Required? Yes ____ No _X _
Public Hearing Required? Yes ____ No _X _
DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt the "Solano County Board of Supervisors Policy Regarding Disruption of Remote Access During Ralph M. Brown Act Meetings" as required by SB 707
SUMMARY:
Senate Bill 707 (2025) amended the Ralph M. Brown Act to require certain legislative bodies that provide remote public access to adopt a policy addressing disruptions to telephonic or internet service during Board meetings. The proposed policy establishes procedures for pausing meetings, attempting to restore access, and resuming meetings in compliance with Government Code section 54953.4.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact associated with adoption of this policy.
DISCUSSION:
Among other changes to the Ralph M. Brown Act, Senate Bill 707 includes provisions intended to ensure continued public access to local government meetings when agencies provide telephonic or internet-based participation, and to establish procedures for addressing disruptions to that access.
The Solano County Board of Supervisors is an "eligible legislative body" under SB 707 and is therefore required to adopt a policy consistent with Government Code section 54953.4. The proposed policy establishes procedures to ensure compliance with state law if remote access to a Board meeting is interrupted. Key provisions include:
* Immediate notification to the Chair and suspension of open session proceedings upon disruption of remote access.
* A requirement to recess open session and make good faith efforts to restore service for a minimum of one hour.
* Authorization to conduct properly agendized closed session items during the recess.
* Procedures for resuming open session once remote access is restored.
* Procedures allowing the Board t...
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