December 23, 2020 By Jessica Mathews/News@whmi.com Legislation sponsored by a local lawmaker that extends the timeframe allowing municipalities and public bodies to meet virtually to conduct public business has been signed into law by Governor Gretchen Whitmer. Senate Bill 1246 was sponsored by Republican Senator Lana Theis of Brighton Township. The bill amends the Open Meetings Act to allow public bodies to meet electronically and remain in compliance. It also extends current remote attendance provisions to March 31, 2021. The bill is said to ensure that local leaders can continue to work on behalf of their community while safeguarding the health and safety of both elected officials and residents. Once public bodies are again able to meet in-person, the bill requires compliance with social distancing and cleaning guidelines if they choose to hold in-person meetings.