BROWN ACT ADVOCATE

Since 2013, we’ve been highlighting possible Brown Act violations in California.  We take tips and leads from news/rss feeds, constituents, government contractors as well as public officials and we bring you only verified violation possibilities backed by fact-based evidence, background and historical trend.

HOWEVER

My approach is a little different.  Using facts and evidence, I try to come up with data models and/or intel that will further support said claims.  At the end, it is up to you, the constituent, to look at all the evidence that has been laid out and come to your own conclusion.

WHAT IS THE BROWN ACT?

The Ralph M. Brown Act, located at California Government Code 54950 et seq., is an act of the California State Legislature, authored by Assemblymember Ralph M. Brown and passed in 1953, that guarantees the public’s right to attend and participate in meetings of local legislative bodies.[1]

The Brown Act, originally a 686 word statute that has grown substantially over the years, was enacted in response to mounting public concerns over informal, undisclosed meetings held by local elected officials. City councils, county boards, and other local government bodies were avoiding public scrutiny by holding secret “workshops” and “study sessions.” The Brown Act solely applies to California city and county government agencies, boards, and councils. The Act has been interpreted to apply to email communication as well, leading to restrictions on the number of parties that can be copied on electronic messages.[2] The comparable Bagley-Keene Act mandates open meetings for State government agencies.

Read more about the Brown Act and it’s statutes by clicking the button below.