• Extra Large
• Large
• Normal
• Small

PRESS RELEASE

Long Beach, CA - Effective July 1, community members now have the ability to virtually participate in public City Council meetings and access expanded language services under Senate Bill 707, the Brown Act Modernization Act. The new California law broadens public meeting access by creating more equitable and diverse opportunities for civic engagement.

Under the new law, community members are now able to view, listen and speak during City Council meetings through Zoom. While closed captioning has been provided in the City Council Chambers since 2007, those attending City Council meetings virtually now also have access to live captions. During the public comment period, speakers will be accommodated in person and virtually. Zoom links will be available on the agenda and on the City Clerk's webpage. Zoom participants will use the "Raise Hand" feature to request to speak on agenda items and non-agenda public comment.

These changes are part of the City's continued efforts to make public meetings more reflective of community needs and give a direct line from constituents to City representatives and elected officials. Residents, community organizations and stakeholders are encouraged to take advantage of expanding access options. Whether attending in person or from home, community input plays a critical role in shaping City policies and programs. The City of Long Beach is committed to strengthening civic engagement and ensuring every community member has the opportunity to share their voice.

More details regarding meeting procedures, speaker sign-ups and public comment guidelines, both in-person and virtual, will be announced before the next City Council meeting, which will take place on Tuesday, July 21 following the City Council's Annual Summer Recess. The City will also release step-by-step instructions for accessing meetings via Zoom and using the closed-captioning feature.

Media inquiries may be directed to Monique DeLaGarza, City Clerk, City Clerk's Office, at 562.570.6981 or [email protected].

For more news, pictures, videos and announcements of what's happening in Long Beach, follow us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram and YouTube.