The Miami Herald: Scott’s meeting with lawmakers may be a violation

BY MICHAEL C. BENDER

TALLAHASSEE — Three top Senate Republicans violated their chamber’s own open meeting requirement when they discussed the state budget at a private dinner with Gov. Rick Scott, a First Amendment attorney said Tuesday.

“The meeting was held in a location not open to the public,” said Jim Rhea, director of the Florida First Amendment Foundation. “And people who asked to attend were not permitted to come in.”

Senate President Mike Haridopolos’ spokesman, David Bishop, said, “We disagree,” but would not elaborate.

Read more: http://www.miamiherald.com/2011/02/08/2057150/scotts-meeting-with-lawmakers.html