By Alabama Public Radio
Tuscaloosa AL – Alabama's new open meetings law is still settling in with some state agencies who are having trouble implementing the new standards. Some have had problems complying with the open records requirements and had to cancel interviews for vacant jobs. Others have had to repeat public meetings after realizing they didn't give enough public notice the first time around. The state parole Board nullified results of about 150 parole cases heard during three days last month because the agency failed to provide adequate notice to crime victims. The new open meetings law took effect on October 1st and requires advance public notice of meetings. Statewide boards and agencies require a week's notice, and advisory board meetings require 24-hour notice. In emergency situations, some agencies and boards are allowed to meet with only an hour's notice. You can register on the Secretary of State's website to stay in touch with many public meetings around the state