Bill > SB419

This bill amends Oklahoma state law to allow the State Treasurer to employ or appoint attorneys, which was previously not permitted under most circumstances. Currently, most state officers, boards, and commissions are not authorized to hire their own legal counsel, with the legal duties typically falling to the Attorney General. The bill expands the list of exceptions to this rule by specifically adding the State Treasurer to the list of entities that can employ or appoint attorneys to advise or represent them. Additionally, the bill makes some minor language updates, such as replacing the word "said" with "the" and adding or removing references to specific state agencies. The legislation also includes provisions that maintain the Attorney General's primary role in legal representation, allowing the Attorney General to defend actions and institute suits on behalf of state entities when requested. The bill will become effective on November 1, 2025, providing state agencies and the State Treasurer with more flexibility in legal representation and counsel.

Justice

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb419&Session=2600