House Overwhelmingly Supports O’Brien’s Bill Protecting Public Comment At School Board Meetings

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TIM O'BRIEN

 STATEHOUSE (Jan. 26, 2022) – Indiana House lawmakers overwhelmingly voted to advance legislation authored by State Rep. Tim O’Brien (R-Evansville) to ensure Hoosiers’ voices are heard at school board meetings.

O’Brien said House Bill 1130, which now goes to the Senate for consideration, would require school boards to allow time for public comment from those physically present at a meeting. He said school boards could set a time limit of three minutes or more and take reasonable steps to maintain order in meetings, like removing a disruptive person.

“Public input is so vital in creating quality learning environments, and the bipartisan support for this legislation shows that it’s needed,” O’Brien said. “Public comments from parents and the community will help inform school board members when making important decisions, which impact our children’s future.”

House Bill 1130 is O’Brien’s first bill he authored as a new state representative.