Closed sessions and remedies

Closed sessions and remedies

Every state permits closed sessions for defined purposes — commonly litigation strategy, personnel matters concerning a named individual, real estate negotiations and security. The exceptions are narrow in text and often broad in practice.

Two constraints apply consistently: the body must announce the specific basis for closing before it does so, and it generally may not take final action in closed session. Deliberation may be private; the vote must be public.

Remedies vary. Depending on the state, a violation may support voiding the action taken, an injunction, attorney fees, or in some jurisdictions personal penalties against members who knowingly violated the law.