Public business is supposed to occur in public view. A sunshine law is a statute that requires governmental bodies to hold meetings openly and to provide advance notice so that citizens and journalists can attend and observe.

These laws typically define which bodies are covered, what counts as a meeting, and what limited exceptions—such as personnel or legal consultations—permit closed sessions. Violations can result in voided decisions or other penalties. Journalists rely on sunshine laws to monitor local boards, commissions, and legislatures.

Practical enforcement varies. Some officials comply carefully; others seek loopholes through serial one-on-one conversations or vague agenda notices. Persistent attendance and occasional legal challenges keep the laws meaningful. Open-meeting rules complement freedom-of-information statutes as tools of routine accountability.

• Law requiring open government meetings
• Mandates notice and public access
• Limited exceptions for sensitive topics
• Essential for monitoring local and state bodies