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Core Principles of the Brown Act
- Open Meetings: All meetings of local legislative bodies (city councils, county boards, special districts) must be open and public.
- Advance Notice: Agendas must be posted publicly at least 72 hours before regular meetings (24 hours for special meetings).
- Public Participation: The public has a right to speak on agenda items and general agency topics.
- No Secret Seriatim Meetings: A majority of members cannot use a chain of communication, serial emails, or social media to discuss or decide agency business outside a public meeting.
Key 2026 Updates (SB 707)
- Unified "Just Cause" Remote Rules: Prior remote rules merged into a single "just cause" exception covering illness, caregiving, family medical emergencies, and military service.
- Disability Accommodations: Remote participation is permanently authorized as a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
- New Member Orientation: Agencies must provide a copy of the Brown Act directly to all newly elected or appointed members.
- Enhanced Access & Transparency: Expanded hybrid/two-way digital access, digital record updates, and specific rules for larger "eligible legislative bodies" taking effect through mid-2026.
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