DATE: May 19, 2026
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: City Clerk and City Attorney
SUBJECT
Title
Disruption of Telephonic or Internet Service Policy: Adopt a Resolution Approving a Policy Addressing Disruption of Telephonic or Internet Service During Public Meetings Pursuant to Government Code Section 54953.4; and Determining that the Action Is Not Subject to Environmental Review
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RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation
That the City Council adopts a Resolution (Attachment II) approving the "Disruption of Telephonic or Internet Service During Public Meetings" policy in accordance with Government Code Section 54953.4, as amended by Senate Bill 707 in 2025.
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SUMMARY
The California Legislature enacted Senate Bill 707 (SB 707) in 2025, amending the Ralph M. Brown Act to establish additional requirements related to remote participation and accessibility during public meetings conducted using telephonic or internet-based platforms. Among the new requirements, Government Code Section 54953.4(b)(1)(A) requires eligible legislative bodies, to provide two-way remote public access to meetings and to adopt formal policies addressing disruption of telephonic or internet services during meetings. These provisions go into effect July 1, 2026, and require adoption of a policy (Exhibit A of the Resolution) at a public hearing prior to that date.
The City of Hayward currently conducts hybrid City Council meetings, allowing both in-person and two-way remote public participation, consistent with SB 707 requirements. In order to comply with State law, the City must formalize procedures for addressing disruptions in two-way remote public access.
Adoption of the proposed policy will not only ensure compliance with State law, but will support transparency in public meetings, and provide operational guidance for City Council meetings conducted with remote participation capabilities.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment I Staff Report
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