Compliance Checklist for Meetings Subject to the Maryland Open Meetings Act - Maryland

Compliance Checklist for Meetings Subject to the Maryland Open Meetings Act is a legal document that was released by the Maryland Attorney General - a government authority operating within Maryland.

FAQ

Q: What is the Maryland Open Meetings Act?
A: The Maryland Open Meetings Act is a law that governs how public meetings are conducted in the state of Maryland.

Q: What is the purpose of the Maryland Open Meetings Act?
A: The purpose of the Maryland Open Meetings Act is to promote transparency and public access to government decision-making processes.

Q: Which meetings are subject to the Maryland Open Meetings Act?
A: All meetings of public bodies in Maryland are subject to the Maryland Open Meetings Act.

Q: What is a public body?
A: A public body is any board, commission, committee, subcommittee, or other entity that is created by statute, executive order, or other official action and has the authority to make recommendations or decisions on behalf of a governmental unit.

Q: What are the requirements for public notice under the Maryland Open Meetings Act?
A: Public bodies must provide notice of the time, date, and place of each meeting at least 48 hours in advance, excluding weekends and holidays.

Q: Can public bodies hold closed or executive sessions under the Maryland Open Meetings Act?
A: Yes, public bodies are allowed to hold closed or executive sessions in certain limited circumstances, such as discussing personnel matters or legal advice.

Q: Are minutes required to be taken at meetings subject to the Maryland Open Meetings Act?
A: Yes, minutes must be taken at all meetings subject to the Maryland Open Meetings Act, and they must be made available to the public upon request.

Q: What is the penalty for violating the Maryland Open Meetings Act?
A: The penalty for violating the Maryland Open Meetings Act can include nullification of actions taken at the meeting and potential legal action against the public body.

Q: Is the Maryland Open Meetings Act applicable to meetings held in private residences?
A: No, the Maryland Open Meetings Act does not apply to meetings held in private residences.