Anexecutive session is any block within an otherwise open meeting (often of aboard of directors or otherdeliberative assembly) in whichminutes are taken separately or not at all, outsiders are not present, and the contents of the discussion are treated asconfidential (seein camera). In adeliberative assembly, an executive session has come to mean that the proceedings are secret and members could be punished for violating the secrecy.[1]
Depending on the organization or governmental body involved, business that is conducted in executive session could include legal issues, discussion on contracts (such as to purchase land, or offer tax incentives to a corporation moving to an area), and personnel issues (such as hiring and firing).[2][3][4]
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An executive session is a portion of theUnited States Senate's daily session in which it considers nominations and treaties, or other items introduced by thePresident of the United States.[5] These items are termedexecutive business; therefore, the session is anexecutive session.[6] It can either be closed door or open door. Historically,[when?] as a courtesy to the President, such sessions were always held behind closed doors, but this custom has been abandoned in modern times. The term "executive session" is still employed to refer to closed-door committee meetings, whether or not they are considering executive business.
An executive session may also be used in otherlegislatures.[7][8][9]
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