SACRAMENTO, CA – Senator John Laird (D-Santa Cruz) has introduced Senate Bill 470 to permanently modernize the Bagley-Keene Act by removing the sunset provision from his previous legislation, SB 544 pertaining to accessibility to state boards and commissions.
“SB 470 builds upon the successful implementation of SB 544, using technology to enhance equity, public engagement, and access while preserving transparency in the decision-making process.” said Senator Laird.
SB 470 continues to ensure public access by requiring a quorum at a single location, mandating that remote officials keep their cameras on, and maintaining remote testimony options. SB 470 upholds the original provisions of the Bagley-Keene Act to enable boards and commissions to adhere to an open meetings option that ensures accessibility for both members and the public. These measures, first introduced during the pandemic, expanded access for individuals with disabilities, seniors, and those unable to travel, while reducing meeting costs by 90%.
Advisory boards with no decision-making authority would be allowed to meet remotely, which enhances representation by people with disabilities, low-income individuals, and more. The bill continues to receive strong support from disability rights and senior advocacy organizations.
“SB 470 recognizes the many barriers that people with disabilities encounter when participating on public bodies. It addresses those barriers by clarifying the right of disabled persons to participate in public meetings remotely when necessary, because of their disabilities. The bill is a thoughtful, balanced set of reforms that promote inclusion and equal access,” said Eric Harris, Associate Executive Director of External Affairs at Disability Rights California.
“Governor Newsom’s decision to allow California’s boards and commissions to meet virtually during COVID created the opportunity for increased engagement—giving a voice to older adults, people with disabilities, rural Californians, and those with health challenges unable to participate in-person. SB 544 amended Bagley-Keene in 2023, ensuring these critical flexibilities continued beyond the COVID emergency orders. Today, we enjoy greater public participation and increased diversity among Commissioners, ensuring broad representation and inclusivity while maintaining full communications transparency. We appreciate Senator Laird for championing SB 470 to make these flexibilities permanent by removing the January 1, 2026, sunset date, bringing governance fully into the twenty-first century,” said Dr. David Lindeman, Chair of the California Commission on Aging.
Senate Bill 470 cements a more inclusive future for California’s state board and commission—ensuring that public and disability access remain a permanent fixture of the decision-making process. By embracing technology and removing barriers, the legislation reaffirms that every Californian, regardless of circumstance, has a voice in shaping the state’s future.
###
Senator John Laird represents the 17th State Senate District, which includes all of Santa Cruz, San Benito, and Monterey Counties, as well as the majority of San Luis Obispo County. More information on Senator Laird can be found here.