Honorable Gary Elkins, Chair, House Committee on Government Transparency & Operation
FROM:
Ursula Parks, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
SB1237 by Taylor, Van (Relating to Internet broadcasts of open meetings held by the policy board of certain metropolitan planning organizations.), As Engrossed
No fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would amend the Transportation Code to require certain metropolitan planning organizations to broadcast certain meetings over the Internet and archive such meetings on their website.
Local Government Impact
There would be costs associated with the provisions of the bill, including the upgrading or purchase of camera equipment, possible contract for services, and addition of technical services. Depending on the size and resources of each individual metropolitan planning organization, these costs could be significant.
The North Central Texas Council of Government reported board meetings are already recorded and the video is provided within 24 hours of the meeting online and archived for several years; however at times, a meeting is held offsite, causing an increase of costs associated with the provisions of the bill.
The Lubbock Metropolitan Planning Organization reported estimated costs of $83,931 in Fiscal Year (FY) 2016, including costs of equipment, online streaming, and a new staff member, and ongoing costs of $42,931 to $67,931 in FY 2017 to FY 2020 to comply with provisions of the bill.