Implementation of Public Comment Requirements

​During the 2022 legislative session, the Indiana General Assembly enacted House Enrolled Act 1130 and Senate Enrolled Act 83, which together require school boards to allow public comment from individuals who are physically present at in-person school board meetings. The pair of laws specify that the public comment period must occur before a school board takes final action on a topic. At the same time, the new statutory language attempts to preserve the ability of school boards to conduct meetings efficiently by ensuring that boards can take reasonable steps to maintain decorum and enforce time limits. While the majority of school boards already allow public comment, local public participation policies/procedures should be reviewed and, if needed, updated prior to the July 1, 2022 effective date. The Indiana School Boards Association has compiled the following resources to assist school boards with implementation of the mandatory public comment requirements.
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Guidance from the Public Access Counselor

Recording of ISBA Member Webinar (4/11/22): "Making The Most Out Of Public Participation In Your Meetings" (Passcode: +2D5**v6)

PowerPoint Slides From 4/11/22 Webinar

Document: Best Practices for Managing Public Comment at School Board Meetings

Frequently Asked Questions on Managing Public Comment at School Board Meetings

Sample Public Comment Sign-Up Sheet

Text of Statutory Language