Alexandria, LA (4/11/2024) – A new push at the state capitol aims to enhance transparency in local government proceedings by requiring certain cities and parishes to live broadcast all public meetings.
House Bill 103, authored by State Representative Mike T. Johnson of Pineville, has garnered significant attention as it progresses through the legislature. With a resounding vote of 101-0, HB 103 passed the House of Representatives yesterday, signaling strong bipartisan support for the measure.
Representative Johnson, the driving force behind HB 103, emphasized the importance of bringing transparency to local governance. “This bill brings transparency to local government by requiring City Councils, Police Juries, and School Boards to broadcast all meetings online for the public to view,” stated Representative Johnson.
“My goal is to bring the government process to us where we are and help us all be more aware of the debates, discussions, and decisions made by our elected officials and become more interested and involved in the governance of our communities.”
If enacted into law, House Bill 103 would mandate that school boards and parish governing authorities within parishes with a population exceeding 25,000 must live broadcast all public meetings. Additionally, municipalities with a population exceeding 10,000 would also be required to live broadcast their public meetings. The City of Alexandria is among the many cities that would need to comply with the proposed law if it were to pass.
The implementation of mandatory online broadcasting of public meetings is seen as a significant step towards enhancing government transparency and fostering greater civic engagement among residents. By providing easy access to live-streamed meetings, constituents would have the opportunity to observe and participate in the decision-making process of their local elected officials, thereby promoting accountability and trust in government institutions.
As HB 103 continues to progress through the legislative process, its proponents remain optimistic about its potential to reshape the landscape of local governance in Louisiana. With transparency and public participation at the forefront, the bill represents a notable effort to empower citizens and strengthen democracy at the grassroots level.
