A new ACLU of Rhode Island report says that town government in East Greenwich, North Kingstown, South Kingstown, Narragansett and Charlestown passes for public access for online viewing and records tests, but remote participation remains the dividing line.
It pointed out that statewide access to local government meetings remains uneven, even after pandemic-era remote access made it easier for residents to watch and take part. The July 2026 review measured city and town councils and school committees by whether they livestream meetings, archive video, post agenda packets online and allow remote public participation.
Zoe Chakoian, ACLU of RI communications associate and drafter of the report, added: “The importance of allowing residents to follow what’s happening in their communities, and have a voice even if they cannot physically be at meetings, cannot be overstated. If we have learned anything since 2020, it’s that virtual access is possible for every council and committee to offer should they choose to.”…