What do I do when a local governing body, school board, commission or authority holds a secret meeting?
First point out to the members of the public body that, with few exceptions, the Open Meetings Act (1976 PA 267) requires all of its meetings to be held in a place available to the general public. Also point out that a violation of this law may result in their actions being held invalid and that they may be compelled to comply by court. You may further call attention to the fact that each member who participates in this illegal act is guilty of a crime for which he or she can be fined up to $ 1,000 for the first offense and up to $2,000 and a year in jail for the second. They can also be made to pay damages plus court costs and attorney fees. If officials persist in holding secret sessions, you are invited to contact MPA for advice regarding the specific problem. If a state board is involved, you and or MPA can work with the Attorney General’s office. If a local body is involved, it is usually advisable to start with the county prosecutor’s office.Ask them to look into the situation an
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