The Open Meetings Act of 2026 requires the federal Judicial Conference to increase transparency in its meetings by establishing new documentation and public access rules. Under this bill, the Judicial Conference must publish notices at least 30 days in advance of any covered meeting, including the date, time, location, and agenda on its website, though it can waive this requirement for good cause with an explanation. Additionally, all covered meetings must provide live audio streaming that is free and open to the public, and the Judicial Conference must archive and publish these audio streams on its website within 7 days of each meeting. The legislation allows meetings to go into closed session when required by law or when the conference votes to do so for sensitive matters, but the body must state the reason before closing any session. This bill applies to conferences and councils operating under federal judicial law and aims to give the public greater access to and awareness of Judicial Conference proceedings.
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