Are members of the governing body of a public agency criminally liable for violations of the Open Meeting Law in which they knowingly participate?
The Open Meeting Law specifically creates fines for violations of the Open Meeting Law where members knowingly conduct or participate in meetings which are in violation of the Open Meeting Law. The Open Meeting Law does not expressly provide for criminal liability for violations of which members have knowledge. Nonetheless, it is possible that a member of a governing body may be guilty of a misdemeanor for violations of the Open Meeting Law in which he or she knowingly participates.
Related Questions
- Does the Open Meeting Law require the governing body of a public agency to accept public comments and testimony during meetings?
- When does a meeting or gathering of members of a public body or agency require public notice?
- Does every gathering of various members of a public body constitute a "meeting" under FOIA?
