1. A. A member of the public, including a representative of the news media, may record an open session of a public body by means of a tape recorder or another recording device, if the:

   1. (1) Device does not create an excessive noise that interferes with the participation in a session by a member of the public body or the observation of the session by a member of the public;
   2. (2) Device does not otherwise interfere with an individual's observation of or participation in the session; and
   3. (3) Recording is done openly so that it is obvious to those in attendance that the session is being recorded.

2. B. A member of the public, including a representative of the news media, may photograph or videotape the proceedings of a public body at an open session by means of a camera if the camera:

   1. (1) Is operated without excessively bright artificial light or excessive noise that interferes with the participation of a member of the public body in the session or the observation of the session by a member of the public;
   2. (2) Does not otherwise interfere with an individual's observation of or participation in the session; and
   3. (3) Is used openly so that it is obvious to those in attendance that the session is being recorded.

3. C. A representative of the news media may broadcast or televise the proceedings of a public body at an open session if the equipment used:

   1. (1) Is operated without excessively bright artificial light or excessive noise that interferes with the participation of a member of the public body in the session or the observation of the session by a member of the public;
   2. (2) Does not otherwise interfere with an individual's observation of or participation in the session; and
   3. (3) Is used openly so that it is obvious to those in attendance that the session is being broadcast or televised.
4. D. The presiding officer may restrict the movement of an individual who is using a recording device, camera, or broadcasting or televising equipment if the restriction is necessary to maintain the orderly conduct of the session.
5. E. A public body may require that an individual, who intends to record, photograph, videotape, broadcast, or televise an open session, register in advance of the beginning of the meeting.

Authority: State Government Article, §10-507(b), Annotated Code of Maryland

Effective date: May 24, 1993 (20:10 Md. R. 851)