To the editor:
As chair of the West Stockbridge Select Board, I am deeply concerned that the Massachusetts Legislature has yet to act on extending the provisions allowing municipalities and other government bodies to conduct meetings remotely under the Massachusetts Open Meeting Law. If legislators fail to act by March 31, this critical flexibility will expire, forcing many government bodies to revert to in-person-only meetings and reducing public access to local decision-making.
Since the pandemic, remote and hybrid meetings have become an essential tool for civic engagement. Residents—including seniors, people with disabilities, those with caregiving responsibilities, and workers with long commutes—have been able to participate in local government without unnecessary hardship. Remote access has strengthened democracy, increased transparency, and improved public trust in government.
Rolling back this progress would be a step in the wrong direction. The technology is in place, the benefits are clear, and municipalities across the Commonwealth rely on this flexibility. I urge the Legislature to act before March 31 to ensure continued accessibility and participation in government.
Andy Potter
Chair of the West Stockbridge Select Board
West Stockbridge
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