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Michigan Open Meetings Act
Michigan law requires public meetings of public boards...
The Michigan Open Meetings Act (OMA) mandates that meetings of public bodies be open to the public, ensuring government transparency and accountability. This law applies to any state or local governing body that exercises governmental or proprietary authority. Essentially, it guarantees the public's right to observe the decision-making processes of these entities.
The OMA requires public bodies to provide public notice of their meetings, including the time, date, and location. This allows citizens to attend and observe deliberations and votes. Closed sessions, or "closed meetings," are only permitted under specific, limited circumstances, such as discussions involving pending litigation, personnel matters, or real estate transactions. Even in these cases, the reasons for closing a meeting must be stated publicly.
Minutes of open meetings must be recorded and made available to the public, documenting the actions taken by the public body. Violations of the OMA can result in legal challenges, including court orders to open meetings or invalidate decisions made in closed sessions. The act aims to prevent secret deliberations and ensure that public business is conducted in the open, fostering trust and participation in government.
