What does the Open Meetings Law in North Carolina require?

The Open Meetings Law in North Carolina requires that all meetings conducted by government bodies be open to the public. This law aims to promote transparency and accountability in government operations, ensuring that citizens have the opportunity to observe and participate in the decision-making processes of their elected officials. The principle behind this requirement is that public business should be conducted in view of the public, allowing for an informed citizenry and fostering trust in governmental institutions.

While there may be specific circumstances under which certain discussions can be held in closed sessions—such as personnel matters or legal issues—these instances are exceptions rather than the rule. The default position is that meetings should be open, thereby enhancing public access to government deliberations. Additionally, the law often stipulates that official minutes of these meetings must be kept to further ensure accountability and maintain a public record of government actions. Thus, the requirement for open meetings is a fundamental aspect of the transparency that the Open Meetings Law seeks to uphold.