Open Meetings Act of 2026

This legislation introduces new transparency and documentation requirements for meetings of specific judicial conferences and councils under chapter 15 of title 28, United States Code. It mandates that the Judicial Conference publish advance notice, including the date, time, place, and agenda, for all "covered meetings" on its website at least 30 days prior, with an exception for good cause requiring an explanation. A core provision requires these meetings to provide live audio streaming , accessible to the public without charge, and for archives of these streams to be published on the website within seven days. While promoting public access, the bill permits conferences or councils to enter closed sessions if publication is prohibited by law or for sensitive matters, provided a majority vote approves and the reason is stated. This aims to increase public awareness and oversight of judicial administrative proceedings.