What forms of communication are covered?
Members of a board discussing board business or holding a meeting by telephone must ensure that the requirements of the Sunshine Law have been satisfied by providing notice and access to the public. If a memorandum reflecting the views of a board member is circulated among board members with each indicating his or her approval, disapproval, or comments, there is a violation of the Sunshine Law. The use of a written report simply to inform is not a violation of the Law as long as there is no reply or interchange of information. The use of computers by members of a public board or commission to communicate among themselves is subject to the Sunshine Law. What subjects are covered? There is no exception to the Sunshine Law allowing closed-door hearings when a board or commission is acting in a “quasi-judicial” capacity. Discussions between a public board and its attorney are generally subject to the Sunshine Law. However, a public board and its attorney may meet in a closed session to dis
