Addressing the Use of Electronic Devices by Elected Officials During Meetings

Link to May 6 San Jose Mercury News article, "Tweet sparks debate over electronic device policy in San Carlos".

Excerpt:   With the rapid proliferation of technology like the iPhone, BlackBerry and laptops, governments are grappling with how technology and policy making can coexist.

The San Jose City Council passed a policy in March requiring council members to disclose e-mails and text messages received by lobbyists during meetings. And in Sacramento, state Assembly Speaker John Perez is trying to ban texting from lobbyists to lawmakers during meetings.

Ahmad said he doesn't oppose a policy on electronic devices or messaging during meetings, unless it outlaws his laptop. He brings the computer to meetings to take notes, access city staff reports, look up maps or definitions online, and plug budget numbers into spreadsheets.