A law which codifies remote access to public meetings successfully passed through Beacon Hill, meaning Island governments can continue to meet remotely until at least next March.

Last week the House and Senate voted to extend a provision requiring remote access to public meetings until March 31, 2023. On Saturday Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito signed the extension into law on behalf of Gov. Charlie Baker, who was out of town at the time.

“Remote participation allows people to more fully participate,” Sen. Julian Cyr said in a phone interview with the Gazette.

Originally instituted by Gov. Baker in March 2020 to accommodate pandemic restrictions, the emergency order was set to expire on July 15. As a result of the legislation, Island governments have the option to continue to meet remotely or are required to provide a remote option should they meet in person.

“I would say this has been a real game changer for us in aiming to have a representative democratic process that’s more accessible,” Senator Cyr said. “Particularly for people with disabilities, those who don’t have reliable transportation, that have caretaking responsibilities, people who aren’t able to leave work or the house.”