A small booklet will soon become a “must-read” for city councils, school boards and other public bodies across the state. It’s a booklet explaining the state Sunshine Law, with updates on changes made by the Legislature, a recent court ruling, and two new opinions issued by Attorney General Jay Nixon. Nixon says it’s important to get the new booklet in the hands of the public. The Attorney General’s office provides the booklet at no cost. You can get more information by going to the Attorney General’s Web site or by calling the office in Jefferson City, 1-800-392-8222. Nixon says his office kept it at 76 pages for a reason. Other changes made to the Sunshine Law this year include securing the public’s right to audiotape and videotape open meetings, clarifying what public bodies can charge for finding and copying material, and increasing the penalties for violations.
