SECTION 209.10. Minimum Standards for Meetings Held by Computer-Based Videoconferencing Applications by a Governmental Body

(a) All computer-based videoconferencing applications shall employ a minimum bandwidth transmission speed and/or adequate data compression algorithm to produce a sufficient quality for audio and video such that audio volume and clarity and video clarity are sufficient to hear and view all speaking participants on the videoconference clearly.

(b) Computer-based videoconferencing applications may specify unique minimum requirements for computer central processing units, memory, and video capability to run the computer-based videoconferencing application. A governmental body shall comply with these minimum requirements.

(c) If the videoconference call hosts a public audience at a location or locations specified by the official notice of the open meeting posted by the governmental body in compliance with Open Meetings Act requirements, then the governmental body shall establish a minimum of one host computer at the location(s) that will run the computer-based videoconferencing application. This host computer shall then be connected to:

(1) either a separate video monitor of size proportional to the room and clearly visible to all in the room or multiple video monitors so that all attendees may clearly view the videostream; and

(2) external speakers of suitable volume and sound quality such that all meeting attendees at the host location may clearly hear the meeting.

(d) Any personal computer used by a governmental body member for the purpose of videoconferencing for an open meeting subject to the Open Meetings Act shall contain a camera and speakers of sufficient quality to permit all meeting attendees to see the individual who is using the personal computer and for the individual to hear all speaking attendees.

Source Note: The provisions of this §209.10 adopted to be effective September 15, 2022, 47 TexReg 5479