Jim Lance’s Brown Act Basics

Pop Quiz:

During “Public Comment” a person wishes to
speak but refuses to sign the sign-in sheet,
state his name or give his address. Does he
have the right to speak?
Find the answer by downloading Jim Lance’s Brown Act Basics.

Download the PDF by clicking here. (731KB)

Intent of the Brown Act:

• To ensure that deliberations and actions of local legislative bodies are open and public.

• To ensure meaningful public access to local agency decisions.

• Meetings must be open to the public, held on a regular schedule, and follow a noticed agenda.

• No secret ballots.