The Georgia State Election Board is facing accusations of violating the Georgia Open Meetings Act by holding a meeting on short notice to push through election rule changes. Government watchdog organization American Oversight filed a lawsuit claiming that conservative board members failed to provide timely notice for the meeting and did not have enough members present to conduct business. The lawsuit alleges that the meeting was orchestrated to advance rules that would increase the number of poll watchers and burden election workers. The lawsuit aims to block the approval of the proposed rules ahead of the November election. The plaintiffs argue that the rules could impact upcoming elections and potentially lead to chaos. Additionally, the plaintiffs criticize the board for not taking action after being informed of the violations. Board members have received warnings from the attorney general’s office regarding the potential violation of the Open Meetings Act. The lawsuit seeks to declare the meeting illegal and for the state to award attorney fees. Board members have declined to comment on the ongoing litigation, with one member expressing frustration over the actions of her colleagues and their attempts to undermine public confidence in the election process. The lawsuit highlights the importance of government transparency and the need to follow state laws to ensure a functioning democracy.
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