Senate Tackles Open Meetings

By: Associated Press

Updated: Fri 9:50 AM, Feb 07, 2003

A bill passed by the Mississippi Senate Thursday would set a $100 penalty for members of public boards who intentionally close meetings that are supposed to be open.

It also would require the board to pay legal expenses if it's successfully sued over the closings.

The Senate adopted an amendment to limit attorney's fees to a maximum of $1,000. The House passed a similar bill last month with no limit on attorney's fees.

The two chambers will exchange bills and must agree on one common version before a bill can go to the governor.

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