Albany, NY – A new measure introduced in the New York State Assembly would compel public bodies to post video recordings of their open meetings online within five business days.
Assemblymember Amy Paulin’s bill seeks to strengthen transparency by ensuring meetings are not only streamed live but also archived and accessible to the public for at least five years.
The proposal, Assembly Bill A578, would amend the state’s Public Officers Law to establish firm posting deadlines and retention requirements for government meeting videos.
Transparency rules tightened for open meetings
Under current law, public bodies are encouraged to make open meetings available online but are only required to post recordings within a “reasonable time.” Paulin’s bill defines that window more clearly, mandating that videos be available within five business days and remain public for a minimum of five years.
The measure applies to all public bodies that maintain a website and have high-speed internet access. It would also replace the narrower terms “agency or authority” with “public body,” expanding the scope of entities required to comply.
Online access became essential after the pandemic
Lawmakers argue the proposal reflects modern expectations for government access, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic made remote viewing essential. With many local boards and commissions now regularly livestreaming meetings, the bill’s backers say a uniform statewide standard is overdue.
Supporters of the measure note that the shift to remote and hybrid meetings created new norms for civic engagement. Codifying these practices, they argue, will ensure residents continue to have equal access to government decision-making, even when they cannot attend in person.
No fiscal impact expected
The bill includes no cost to state or local governments, as most public bodies already record and post their meetings. It would take effect immediately upon becoming law.
The legislation builds on earlier versions introduced in 2021, 2023, and 2024 that sought similar requirements but did not advance beyond committee. Lawmakers hope this version’s clarified language and broader applicability will help it move forward in the upcoming session.
Key Points
- Public bodies would be required to post meeting recordings within five business days.
- Recordings must remain online and accessible for at least five years.
- The bill applies to any public body with a website and high-speed internet access.
