BEDFORD– In anticipation of a new state law mandating the live streaming of public meetings, the Lawrence County Commissioners took proactive steps towards greater government transparency during their meeting Tuesday morning. The commissioners approved a contract with ANH Indiana to purchase the necessary equipment for live streaming for $3,406.12.
This move comes ahead of the July 1, 2025, implementation date for House Enrolled Act No. 1167, a significant piece of legislation signed into law by Governor Eric Holcomb on May 1, 2023. The new law will require many local governmental bodies across Indiana to broadcast their public meetings live online, increasing accessibility for residents.
House Enrolled Act 1167 mandates the live electronic transmission or streaming of public meetings held by specific local governmental bodies throughout Indiana. This will allow residents to observe essential discussions and decisions in real time from the convenience of their homes or any location with internet access.
The law does include specific exemptions, such as executive sessions (private meetings) and, generally, Regional Sewer Districts, unless they share a meeting room with another governing body subject to the live streaming requirement. Additionally, if a governing body holds its public meetings in the same room as another entity already required to live stream, it will also need to comply.
The legislation will impact a broad range of local government entities, including:
- City councils
- County commissions
- School boards
- Township trustees
- Regional Sewer Districts (under specific room-sharing conditions)
The passage of House Enrolled Act 1167 has been lauded as a crucial step towards greater openness and accountability in local governance. By making public meetings more accessible, Indiana aims to empower citizens to stay informed about their elected and appointed officials’ actions and foster greater engagement in the decisions shaping their communities. The early action taken by the Lawrence County Commissioners demonstrates a commitment to meeting these new requirements and enhancing transparency for their constituents before the deadline.
