School board public comment requirement bill advances

FRANKFORT-- A bill that would require public comment at school board meetings is now one step closer to becoming law.

The Kentucky House of Representatives approved House Bill 121 by a 66-24 vote on Wednesday. It would require local school boards to allow at least 15 minutes of public comment at each meeting. It would also allow school boards to skip the public comment period if no one has requested to speak.

The bill's primary sponsor, Rep. Regina Huff, R-Williamsburg, says the bill would guarantee Kentuckians an opportunity to share their concerns or offer support to their local school board.

"Many boards already welcome public input and those that are already doing so can continue to do so just as long as they have at least 15 minutes,' Huff said.

Huff said she has not heard from any school board or superintendent who is against the bill. However, she has heard from constituents in support of the measure.

"I've heard from several individuals of various districts that reached out to share the experience of being denied the opportunity to speak," Huff said.

Huff said she believes some of the tense situations that have happened at school board meetings within the last year are a result of boards not allowing public comment.

"I think the opportunity to speak without being locked out will go a long way and be a more peaceful situation," Huff said.

Prior to voting on the measure, Rep. Lisa Willner, D-Louisville, called a floor amendment that would allow school boards to cancel a public comment period if there are safety concerns. The motion failed.

Huff agreed with Willner that security at school board meetings is important, however, she could not support the amendment.

"As I suggested, (school resource officers) are the invaluable resource that can be used during those times such as this," Huff said.

HB 121 will now go before the Senate for consideration.