Bill requiring 72-hour notice for public meetings headed to governor’s desk

In its final charge toward today’s noon adjournment, the state Senate voted 31-0 this morning to approve legislation aimed at increasing government transparency.

Specifically, House Bill 21 would require that school boards, city councils and other government entities make their agendas publicly available at least 72 hours before a scheduled meeting. They must currently post agendas at least 24 hours in advance.

This is the third year the legislation has been proposed, according to the Foundation for Open Government. Its sponsors are Rep. Jim Smith, R-Tijeras, and Sen. Daniel Ivey-Soto, D-Albuquerque.

The measure now advances to the desk of Gov. Susana Martinez, who is expected to sign it into law.

The Senate has not yet acted on a comprehensive tax package that was approved by a committee last night. That bill is on the Senate agenda with just three hours left in this year’s 60-day regular session.