Ige Allows Virtual Public Meetings to Continue as COVID Cases Rise

Gov. David Ige last week signed an emergency proclamation temporarily suspending an upcoming provision in the state’s Sunshine Law that would have mandated public meetings accommodate for at least one in-person location.

The governor earlier this year signed Act 220. A portion of the measure allows meetings to be conducted remotely while still requiring at least one in-person meeting location.

Because of the recent rise in COVID-19 cases, Ige is temporarily suspending that requirement in an effort to continue mitigating the virus’ spread. This limited suspension ensures that government entities can continue conducting public meetings online, consistent with the important transparency requirements of the Sunshine Law.

All other provisions of Act 220 took effect as planned on Jan. 1.

The emergency proclamation will remain in effect through Feb. 28 unless terminated or superseded by a separate proclamation.